Intervall Duathlon
May 25 & 26, 2002
4k run, 16k bike, 4k run, 16k bike, 4k run
US$12,000 purse

This year the Triathlon Club Zofingen (TriZo) has again organized and scheduled a large multi-sport event in the sports calendar of 2002. Even though we have faced a lack of support from the Swiss Triathlon Federation over the last several years, we were nonetheless able to succeed (e.g. Ein kleiner Duathlon-politischer Exkurs). After last year's revival of the Intervall Duathlon, the participants both young and old, spectators, staff and volunteers were very excited, and we observed an overwhelming level of support for our efforts. Hence, it became clear that the TriZo needed to establish an on-going commitment to this event. We really want to thank everybody for their comments, suggestions, and especially for the gracious generosity of the sponsors.

In addition to holding our usual competition, we'll hold the 2003 Intervall Duathlon in Zofingen, including the Swiss youth championships and student events.

This year we're trying something new: the festivities begin on Saturday evening with an inclusive event that integrates all participants in the spirit of competition. We will hold a wheelchair race including the world's best wheelchair athletes, and we continue the celebration of Sport with a pasta party afterwards. We want to extend a special invitation for everyone to enjoy the party with us in the stadium. Top athletes from other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, USA, Holland, France, and elsewhere, will join us there. On Sunday, they'll join us again in competing in the races, where we can not only admire them as athletes but push ourselves in racing against them. Even though our event is the same day as the European Championships, we have fielded many outstanding athletes and the event promises to bring together top competitors in a spectacular setting. And for those of you who may not be a world-class performer, we will also hold an amateur Duathlon, which provides the chance to participate in the original course without a license.

Finally, I wish all of you the best of luck and success as you prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable day in Zofingen! I look forward to bringing you, the TriZo, and the entire Duathlon and sports family together again. And never forget, be there or be square!

Christian Wenk, OK-President