This Saturday sees the launch of a new “shorter” style of triathlon at Foxlake in East Lothian. Organised by Durty Events, a series of triathlons on one day offer the chance to try a short but fast course and in a range of formats.

The course will be very short indeed. It will take only 10 to 15 minutes to complete the swim, bike and run. The twist is that the course will be completed several times in one race.

Foxlake Triathlon format

SWIM: 200metres in the private freshwater Foxlake Adventures Wakeboard Park. It’s open water with a deep-water start. Wetsuits will most likely be needed but it depends on the water temperature on the day. (I went cable wakeboarding in the lake on Friday and it was amazingly warm.)

BIKE: 3km mountain bike on tracks and trails. It’s not too technical. Helmets and working brakes are a must.

RUN: 1km off-road and on trails.

Solo Foxlake Triathlon event

Solo competitors will start in waves of around 20 people. The fastest from each heat will progress to the next round. The slower racers will then be entered against other less speedy triathletes so everyone has the chance to compete in several rounds.

4 x 4 Team Relay

This is as it says: Four people, in a relay team, changing over between sports.

Novices and Tristars/Youths

This is the event for newbies and promises to be laid back. Race as hard or easy as you fancy but enjoy the format of three sports.

It’s also a good opportunity for juniors and youths to race in an open water triathlon.

See Foxlake Triathlon