Just a lazy 200 metre swim, an 8.8 kilometre bike ride and a 2km run. 

Well, at least that’s the requirement this weekend at Orange Triathlon Club’s first women-only event, which doubles as a fundraiser for the Cancer Council to remember club stalwart Sandy Ostini, who lost her battle with breast cancer in August. 

However, organisers are saying those worried about the distance, or the competition, shouldn’t be as the triathlon more focuses on the fun and camaraderie. `

Competition is slightly less intense than the club’s normal events, with paddle boards and noodles allowed for the swim leg and walking or jogging encouraged for the final leg. 

There’s also a dress-up theme – fluro. 

Organisers initially wanted to have a colour run with chalk as part of the event, but the amount of sweat and water involved meant they decided to switch to fluro dress. 

One of the event’s organisers, Megan Goodwin, said all the money would be going towards the Orange Cancer Council to remember Mrs Ostini.

“Sandy was a huge supporter of the triathlon club, while she didn’t compete. The Cancer Council was her favourite charity so we’re helping them,” she said. 

“It’ll help shake the nerves off if you get dressed up and have fun – Frank Ostini is always dressing up in fluro and yellow is the Cancer Council’s colour. 

“We’ve had a lot of interest from local groups and fitness groups encouraging or conning each other into taking part. We’re tying to get as many people as possible, it’s our first women-only event.

“It’s specifically for the people who might be keen to try triathlon but don’t want to commit to a full competition or might want to run with the boys, because they can be a bit intimidating.”

The triathlon will be held on Saturday afternoon, with registration from 3.30 and the race itself kicking off from 4.30. 

The cost for club members $20, non-members $25 and teams are $30, with all money raised going to charity. 

“We’re hoping it becomes an annual event and be a regular fundraiser. They boys will be helping and cheering us on and supporting, they’ll do the marshalling and everything,” Goodwin said. 

She said she hoped it would lead to more women becoming involved in triathlon, and was also hoping to see triathletes from Bathurst driving down for the event after Orange Triathlon Club supported their first women-only event last weekend. 

Goodwin said the clincher for most people – and herself – was the “relaxing afterwards”. 

“That’s the best bit,” she said.

“There’ll be a glass of wine or bubbles on the grass as the sun sets. It’ll be from about 5.30 and if people want to bring a picnic blanket and have a barbecue that would suit as well. It’s such a good location.” 

All registration is to be held on the day. Head to Orange Triathlon Club’s Facebook page for more information.