Next weekend marks the 10th anniversary of the Grand Pacífico Triathlon, which takes place in Mazatlán from March 19-20.

This annual event draws more than 1,000 competitors to this tourism hotspot from across North and South America, Europe, Africa and Mexico. Participants in this year’s triathlon include athletes from the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico, among others.

Mazatlan’s renowned Pacific coast beaches and calm, azure waters set the stage for hot competition across three categories, including the Sprint, Olympic and Elite race designations. In the most challenging Elite category, athletes will complete a 1.5-km ocean swim before pedaling 40 km on bicycles along Mazatlán’s scenic coastal promenade, finishing with a 10-km run through historic Old Mazatlán. The Sprint and Olympic classifications will encompass less challenging triathlon courses, with shorter time durations for each swimming, cycling and running component. For young athletes ages 9 – 15, the Grand Pacifico Triathlon also features a Children’s category, comprising a 300-meter swim, 8-km bicycle race and 1.5-km run for the finish line.

Throughout the two-day event, participants and spectators will enjoy a full schedule of daily activities, ranging from award ceremonies and cocktail receptions to cultural festivities. Gastronomic showcases will feature fresh seafood and authentic cuisine prepared by renowned local chefs.

For more information on the Grand Pacifico Triathlon, including registration and a full event schedule visit the dedicated website at www.maraton.org or www.gomazatlan.com.