The Tri-Robben Island Triathlon

One island, two races, three disciplines. Who will be victorious?


Not what you're looking for? Check out all the info for the 2013 TriRock-Robben Island Triathlon!

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Servicing South Africans and tourists alike,  Robben Island – home to the former Apartheid prison – is adding a triathlon to its infamous repertoire. The inaugural Tri-Robben Island, a cut-throat sporting competition that pits contestants against each other in three disciplines – swimming, cycling and running, is scheduled to take place across the 5.07 km² island on Sunday, 9 September 2012.

Creator and triathlete Grant Kunneke was inspired to found the Tri-Robben Island competition after he realised through a conversation with a fellow triathlete and friend that his knowledge about the landmark was extremely limited. Grant thus decided that there was no better way to raise awareness (both his own and others’) than by hosting the Robben Island’s first triathlon.

Athletes have been granted the privilege – by the Robben Island Museum – to explore regions of the island more intimately than most tours allow. Participants will swim in the frigid waters of the harbour before cycling and running through and around many of the island’s landmarks, including the limestone pits where prisoners did hard labour, the lighthouse and the famous WWII cannon.

There are two races for the day: a short one (4:14:4) in the morning and a longer version (8:28:8) in the afternoon. The first race kicks off at 8am and the second at 2:30pm.

Entry prices and race information for the Tri-Robben Island

  • Morning race (16 years and older) R575p/p - Swim: 400m | Cycle: 14km | Run: 4km
  • Afternoon race solo (18 years and older) R775p/p - Swim: 800m | Cycle: 28km | Run: 8km)
  • Afternoon race relay (18 years and older) R2325p/team - Swim: 800m Cycle: 28km Run: 8km

Entries will only be open for 27 days – one day for each year Nelson Mandela spent incarcerated – prior to race day. Spots are limited, so be sure to register so soon to avoid disappointment. Registration can be done online through the website, Tri-robbenisland.com; download the PDF entry form on the site.

Event schedule for the Tri-Robben Island

Frequently asked questions about the Tri-Robben Island

Race maps

Want to watch the Tri-Robben Island?

Unfortunately, no allowances for spectators have been made, so you won’t be able to see your loved ones cross the finishing line. However, organisers may make concession in the future if enough interest is shown (at least 30 people). Contact the organiser for more information on info@tri-rock.com.

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