18 February 2005

WORKING up a sweat will be the order of the day on Saturday, 19 February when the annual friendly rivalry between local athletes and surfers continues with the Discovery Surfers Challenge.

Athletes will pit their skills against surfers with a race along the beachfront from Kwelera to the Nahoon River. Participants can either run on the beach, or swim or paddle in the ocean.

The Discovery Surfers Challenge, part of the Buffalo City Tri-Challenge, has a rich history. It started 30 years ago when athletes beat surfers in a road relay from King Williams Town to East London. Determined to boost their tainted egos, the surfers issued a challenge to the roadrunners to meet them on their own turf - the beach.

And the challenge continues each year, with runners, walkers and paddlers of all shapes and sizes and various levels of fitness once again at it.

Joseph Motaung, from sponsors Discovery Challenge, says surfing, running and walking are about health, outdoor life and family enjoyment. "At Discovery we always encourage people to live healthier and more active lifestyles.

"We are proud to be involved in a race that is not limited to the top athletes but encourages young and old to participate and brings the whole of East London together."

The other events in the Buffalo City Tri-Challenge are the Ocean Challenge Cycle Race on 27 February and the Nahoon Mile Swim on 6 March. Medals will be awarded to all finishers of all three events.

Registration for the tri-challenge can be done at the start or the finish of the surfers challenge or at the other events.

For more information, contact Colleen Durant on 043 740 4502.