Unlike traditional aquathlons or run-swim-runs, Swimrun Australia: Sydney East combines swimming and running in a multi-stage event, involving athletes completing the course with multiple legs of each discipline, swimming and running in the same gear and carrying everything they need for the race from start to finish.

There are two courses, the traditional long course (16km) and a sprint course (5km) for those looking to give it a try.

Sprint Course

The sprint course is aimed at introducing the sport to new athletes and will take these competitors from Lyne Park, Rose Bay, to Nielsen Park, Vaucluse, and back.

• Total distance: 5km
• 2.9km of running over 5 legs
• 2.1km of swimming over 5 legs
• Minimum age: 14 years old

Long Course

The long course is the primary course that takes competitors from Lyne Park, Rose Bay, to Hornby Lighthouse, Watsons Bay, and back.

• Total distance: 16km
• 12.6km of running over 11 legs
• 3.4km of swimming over 11 legs
• Minimum age: 16 years old

View the official event website for the full course maps.

Pre-race nerves may dictate that you don’t focus on anything other than preparing yourself mentally before the event… but afterwards, you’ll find yourself back at Rose Bay, the eastern suburbs harbourside gem.

Start by chilling out under a tree in Lyne Park, then grab a coffee and a bacon and egg roll. Following that, you’re probably going to want to eat… so you can head north into the Rose Bay shops, east to Bondi and its plethora of cafes, or south into Double Bay.

We could tell you about all the activities in the area, but you won’t have the energy.

Parking isn’t too bad in the area if you get there early enough. Free parking is available on New South Head Road and in the Lyne Park carpark (just watch the time limits on some parks).

The Rose Bay ferry sails in and docks at the park, so that’s a fantastic option for those coming further afield. Check the ferry timetable. Buses also run up and down New South Head Road from Bondi Junction and the city.