the Triathlon Association's announcement of the inaugural Tri Gatorade Triathlon to be held next month at the USNAS base in St. David's.

A number of overseas triathletes are expected on the Island to take part in the April 22 race, which will feature both individual and team competition.

The first event on this year's calendar, the race will serve as a local qualifier for the World Triathlon Championships to be held in Cancun, Mexico in November.

Several competitors are to be brought in by American Scott Willet and the New York University TriClub, of which he is coach.

At least 10 women and 15 men, many accomplished age group triathletes, have already been confirmed for the jaunt across the Atlantic.

According to Willet, the females should do well in Bermuda as well as provide excellent competition in the 20-29 and 30-39 age groups.

Of the 15 men, two have placed consistently in the top five in the Northeast USA age groups.

Additionally, the NYU TriClub will include two teams -- one male and one female -- to provide extra competition in what is expected to be a highly contested team event.

The race course will be over the standard Olympic distance (1.5 kilometre swim, 40 kilometre bike and 10 kilometre run) and the BTA is encouraging members of the local swimming, cycling, and running clubs to begin organising their own teams.

Prizes of $150 vouchers will be awarded to the top male, female and junior team as well as the first individual to beat a team. Trophies also will be provided.

Entry deadline is Wednesday, April 19, with a fee of $15 for individuals ($12 BTA members) and $36 for teams ($30 BTA members)). Late entries will be accepted at an increased fee.

Further information can be obtained from Patrick Hackenberg (295-8272 ext.

224).