South Seas’ annual triathlon offers multiple opportunities
The annual South Seas Captiva Island Triathlon will take place this weekend as athletes compete swimming in the Gulf, running along the island’s shoreline, and biking on a path closed to vehicular traffic.
“The Captiva Triathlon is one of the signature athletic events on Captiva and South Seas is proud to serve as the host venue. The event began in 2011, when the inaugural Captiva Island Triathlon was held at South Seas on Captiva Island. That first event attracted more than 500 participants across youth and adult races and established what has become an annual island tradition. After Hurricane Ian, the event was on hold, and South Seas resumed hosting the event last year in September of 2025,” South Seas General Manager Shawn Farrell said.
The Sunday, Sept. 27, annual event is a USA Triathlon sanctioned event, as well as part of the 2026 USA Triathlon State Championship Pilot Program.
“This event has multiple categories offering something for everyone, so it’s the perfect event for athletes of all skills and ages,” he said.
The event offers five ways to compete. The first is the Super Spring Triathlon, which is designed for first-time racers in a 200-yard swim, five-mile bike ride and a 1.5-mile run.
The Sprint Triathlon includes a quarter-mile swim, 10-mile bike ride and a 3.1 mile run. The Sprint Duathlon includes a one-mile run, 10-mile bike ride and a 3.1 mile run. The Sprint Aquabike pairs a quarter-mile swim with a 10-mile bike ride. The last is the Sprint triathlon Relay where two or three person teams can take on the course together.
“At South Seas, we’re passionate about recreation, wellness, and the natural beauty of Captiva Island, making our resort an ideal setting for the Captiva Island Triathlon. We’re proud to welcome athletes, their families, and spectators for a unique race experience that includes a Gulf swim, a bike course with limited vehicle traffic, and a run through the scenic surroundings of South Seas and Captiva,” he said.
Approximately 300 athletes participated in the 2025 event.
“Registration is still underway, but we are hopeful to exceed last year’s registration numbers and bring in a record number of participants,” Farrell said.
The races will begin between 7:15 and 7:40 a.m., depending on the event one chooses.
From 6:45 to 9 a.m., Captiva Drive will be closed at Blind Pass for the race. With limited parking, spectators are asked to carpool with athletes or park in designated areas outside of the resort gates and ride the trolley, which begins running at 5 a.m.
“Beyond the race, the event brings visitors together for a memorable island getaway. Throughout the weekend, participants staying at the resort can enjoy South Seas’ amenities, special family friendly weekend festivities, outdoor activities, and signature hospitality, creating an experience that is as much about enjoying the destination as it is about competing,” Farrell said.
With parking extremely limited on the island, spectators are asked to carpool with athletes or park in designated areas outside the resort gates and ride the trolley, which begins running at 5 a.m., to the start and finish line.
For more information, and to register, visit trisignup.com.
South Seas is at 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email mbradbury@breezenewspapers.com