Air New Zealand’s longstanding sponsorship for the Rarotonga International Triathlon “is testament to the airline’s commitment to the tourism industry”.
The
airline has been sponsoring the annual event since its inception. This year the
Air New Zealand Rarotonga International Triathlon will be celebrating its 30th
anniversary.
Triathlon
events have been held in Rarotonga since the early 1980s. Rarotonga’s national
championship race the “Tinman” triathlon of slightly shorter distance than the
Olympic distance has been held every year since 1983. It comprised a
1.2-kilometre swim in Muri lagoon, around the island cycle of 31km and a 10km
run to the finish line at the Rarotonga Sailing Club. Since 1986, team
competition has been offered alongside individual participation. Teams have
typically made up the majority of competitors with varying numbers of
individuals from year to year. In 1995 the distances were increased to a 1.5km
swim, and a 41km cycle while the run remained at 10km. This brought the triathlon
in line with the Olympic format.
Air
New Zealand’s involvement stems back to the early nineties which established an
open event to overseas competitors. The then manager of Air New Zealand Barry
Hardy played an instrumental role in the establishment of this event.
Subsequent Air New Zealand managers have continued to facilitate support for
the Rarotonga International Triathlon.
In
more recent years, the Rarotonga International Triathlon has been promoted in conjunction
with complementary businesses involved in tourism or those that are an integral
part of the economy here.
Over
the years competitors have not only travelled to Rarotonga for the event but
also brought their families and friends for a holiday. The Edgewater Resort and
Spa, a major sponsor, has supported this event by offering affordable
accommodation packages and hosting the Awards Dinner.
Air
New Zealand country manager Addrienne Hosking-Tinirau said: “the airline’s
long-standing sponsorship is testament to the airline’s commitment to the
tourism industry”.
“Staging
an international event here in Rarotonga also highlights a perfect destination
for future sporting events.
“A
special acknowledgement goes out to the Cook Islands Triathlon Association,
Roland, Lucy, Adrian and their team for ensuring this event is enjoyed by all.
“On
behalf of the airline, I wish all the local and overseas competitors all the
best with this weekend’s triathlon.”