Frequently Asked Questions
An introduction to the Surf n Turf Aquathon and Sea Swim Series
An aquathon is a sport combining the two disciplines of swimming and running.What makes it accessible to everyone is that you have the choice of participating in a short or long course option. You'll feel a great sense of wellbeing when you take part.
What are the distances?
| Aquathon | |||
| Date | Swim Distance | Run Distance | Venue |
| 20th Jan | 600m | 4.2km | Corsair Bay |
| 27th Jan | 700m | 3.5km | Corsair Bay |
| 3rd Feb | 600m | 2.8km | Corsair Bay |
| 10th Feb | 1000m | 4.2km | Corsair Bay |
| 17th Feb | 1400m | 3.6km | Corsair Bay |
| 24th Feb | 1000m | 6km | Scarborough |
| Swim Only | |||
| Date | Long Swim | Short Swim | Venue |
| 20th Jan | 1200m | 600m | Corsair Bay |
| 27th Jan | 1400m | 700m | Corsair Bay |
| 3rd Feb | 1800m | 600m | Corsair Bay |
| 10th Feb | 1500m | 1000m | Corsair Bay |
| 17th Feb | 2100m | 1400m | Corsair Bay |
| 24th Feb | 1500m | 1000m | Scarborough |
Note: Short Course open water swim distance will be the same as the Aquathon swim distance. Venues and distances are subject to change.
Who can enter?
The Surf n Turf series is open to all women and men – experience and ability does not matter. There is a minimum age of 14 years old. Permission must be granted by your parent or guardian if you are under 16 years.If you are under 14 years old you may still be able to compete if you are a strong swimmer. If you are under 14 and would like to compete please contact the race director directly.
What level of fitness do I need?
Your level of fitness doesn't matter. Whether you are a complete novice or a experienced competitor you will be able to achieve one of the race options available – it's just a matter of taking it at your own comfortable pace.
What happens if it rains?
Unfortunately you will get wet! But you have to get wet anyway. So just have fun.
Will there be any cancellations of the event?
We will go ahead with the events in the rain, heat and wind. Being ready for the conditions is all apart of being prepared for an aquathon. The event will only be cancelled if sea conditions are deemed too dangerous. If the water is rough we may alter the course to suit the conditions.
Are there entry limits to the events?
Yes! To secure your place you MUST enter before the events fill up. Each event will be restricted to 150 participants.
How do I enter?
Entry is simple, you can either enter online and pay by credit card, or you can download an entry form and post it to us with a cheque.
Click here for online entry.
For mail entry form, please click here.
Can I enter on the day?
Entry will be available at registration on race day but there is a late penalty.
Are the runs on road or grass?
You will be running on sealed footpath along the esplanade in Sumner.
Where do I wear my number?
Race numbers will be written on your hand.
What do I wear?
For the swim section you can wear swim gear or a wetsuit and for the run you can stay in your swim gear or put on some running gear on in transition. You will also have to wear shoes on the run leg.
Where can I get a wetsuit?
The Frontrunner on the corner of Colombo and Lichfield streets in Christchurch City has a wide range of swimming wetsuits for sale.
Can I have a helper in transition?
No. The transition area is open to participants only as it can get a bit frantic in there when a hundred people are moving about.
Where and when is registration?
Registration is on the Scarborough waterfront and will be clearly marked for all competitors. Registration will open from 5.30 – 6.15 before each event.
Will I receive a race pack?
Yes. You will receive a race pack at registration on your first race.
Do I have to wear shoes?
Yes. Part of our health and safety plan requires all athletes to wear shoes during the run section.
What is the refund policy?
Our policy is no refunds.If, for some reason, you have to withdraw from your event, you are more than welcome to come along to registration and collect your race pack. In the event of an event cancellation there will be no refunds however we will do everything we can to reschedule the event for another date.
Do all swimmers take off at once or are the starts done in waves?
This will depend on the number of entries! It is highly likely that there will be wave starts and these will be clearly identified at the briefing for each event.
Are wetsuits recommended or just a personal preference?
Wetsuits are not compulsory, it is a choice left completely up to the competitor.
What kind of swimmers enter the series?
Anyone that is capable of swimming the race distance comfortably is welcome to enter any of the events.
Do you need a swim cap?
Yes! A brightly coloured swim cap is compulsory. Unfortunately this year you will have to provide you own swim cap.
Are there any rules in the transition area?
Common courtesy towards your fellow competitors is the main rule in transition. You must respect all other competitors and their gear. No-one is allowed assistance in transition unless it is deemed necessary by the race director.