Seoul's Chill Triathlon: The "My Pace Hangang Triathlon Festival"
Compete, cycle, and withstand the temptation to withdraw in Seoul's triathlon competition
Want to immerse yourself in Seoul's vibrant cityscape, all while keeping your cool and shaking off the stresses of modern living? Then the "My Pace Hangang Triathlon Festival" is just the ticket! This annual event invites participants to dive, cycle, and run their way along the picturesque Han River - all at their own damn pace. No records, no rankings, just pure fun!
On a sunny day in May 30, I joined the throng of triathlon enthusiasts, decked out in spandex and sporting pink press lanyards, as we charged forward towards Ttukseom Hangang Park in eastern Seoul. The spirit was laid-back and convivial, with families, friends, and solo warriors united in pursuit of a shared goal - personal growth and a chance to take a breather in our hectic world.
Work it, swim itThe festivities kicked off with an aquatic race of 300m, where swimmers could choose to take the plunge in either the Han River or a leisurely outdoor swimming pool within the park. This is where I took my dip, grinning like a loon as I navigated the gentle waves of the lazy river pool.
Pedal powerFollowing the swimming challenges, participants hopped onto bicycles, be they kids' Ttareungi or adult models, and embarked on rides of varying distances. The basic route spanned 10km, while the more daring cyclists tackled a longer 20km course.
Crunched it, ran through itThe triathlon concluded with a run through the park, with distances of 5km for beginners and 10km for the advanced. As I sprinted towards the finish line, arms pumping, heart racing, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment coursing through my veins.
At the end of the day, participants were awarded medals for each event completed, and those who braved all three disciplines were showered with a special circular medal, symbolizing their triumph over the urban jungle and their commitment to maintaining their well-being amidst life's frenetic pace.
In a nutshell, the "My Pace Hangang Triathlon Festival" offers an incredible opportunity to partake in a range of physically demanding activities in one of Asia's most bustling cities while promoting mental and physical wellness in an inclusive, judgement-free atmosphere. So lace up your shoes, dust off your bike, and dive in - because life's a bit sweeter when you take it at your own pace!
Enrichment Data:
Schedule
- Event dates: May 30 to June 1, 2025
- Activities can be completed flexibly throughout the event's duration without adhering to strict timing or competition
Route
- Swimming: Options include a 200m outdoor pool or a 300m swim in the Han River with assistive tube lanes for beginners; advanced swimmers can conquer a 1km cross-river swim
- Cycling: Participants can choose between a 10km or 20km course
- Running: Routes of 5km or 10km are available for runners of varying skill levels
Registration
Details are not specified in the sources, but the event is said to be open to participants of all skills and abilities
- Beyond the sports, the festival also features cultural events, showcasing Seoul's rich arts and heritage, adding another layer of joy to the triathlon experience.
- In the evenings, the government organizes educational workshops and seminars, encouraging participants to learn about environmental conservation and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Furthermore, the "My Pace Hangang Triathlon Festival" embraces diversity and includes fun-filled activities for children, such as a mini sports day, craft workshops, and storytelling sessions, making it a family-friendly event.
