Bonaqua Triathlon Cup to showcase Zim’s sports tourism

The highly anticipated 2024 edition of the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup is set to take place on February 17 at the picturesque Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga.

Peter Tanyanyiwa Suburban Reporter

With an impressive lineup of global and regional athletes, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better, solidifying its reputation as a beacon for sports tourism in Zimbabwe.

The 2024 Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup Troutbeck launch media briefing was held on Wednesday at Holiday Inn Hotel, Harare. The guest of honour at the event was the Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture Minister Kirsty Coventry.

The multi-sport festival, which has become an annual highlight, attracts athletes from countries such as Kazakhstan, Netherlands, Japan, and Ireland. The organisers are expecting even more participants to take part in this year’s edition, further elevating the Triathlon Cup’s international status.

Coca-Cola frontline marketing manager Barry Otieno said that they are dlighted to be the title sponsor of the tournament.

“It comes as a great privilege and honour to be the title sponsor of the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon, a global event sanctioned by the International Triathlon Union.

“Bonaqua, being a water brand, aligns perfectly with the event and resonates magnificently with the natural surroundings we experience in Troutbeck. The Bonaqua brand has grown alongside Triathlon Zimbabwe as the official title sponsor, showcasing our commitment and dedication to the development of sport in Zimbabwe,” said Otieno.

The 2024 event encompasses an array of thrilling multi-sport activities, including the corporate challenge, aquathlon, mountain biking, open water swim, and much more.

Triathlon Zimbabwe president Ross O’Donoghue, expressed his gratitude towards the sponsors.

“I am thankful to our sponsors who have walked with us through thick and thin.

“Bonaqua, the title sponsor, Cimas’ iGo, CFAO, Rooney’s Events, African Sun, Troutbeck Resort, Ecocash, Simbisa, your support has always been immense. As an organisation, we have continued to grow, and we are delighted that our sponsors’ roster continues to expand with us. This year, I would like to announce and welcome the arrival of MCM Legal to the sponsors’ basket. We sincerely hope that they will enjoy the experience and the partnership for this event,” said O’Donoghue.

Notably, elite athletes participating in the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup have the opportunity to earn world ranking points for the International Triathlon Union (ITU) ranking system. The points hold significant value as they contribute to athletes’ Olympic ranking qualification points, enhancing their chances of securing a spot in future Olympic events.

Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and ideal terrain for triathlon sports, the magnificent Troutbeck resort stands as one of the world’s best destinations for such events.

Boasting safe, clean, and disease-free water, well-maintained roads, and an amiable climatic environment, Troutbeck has become a tourism hub that continues to attract athletes and visitors from around the globe.