(Eleuthera, Bahamas) – A new course and new student division highlight the 2013 version of the Pineapple Fest Triathlon – the Pineappleman – early registration numbers are surging and Island Flava band is booked and excited about their Saturday morning set at the post-race party on Gregory Town’s cove.

The 16-kilometer bicycle leg of the annual endurance race, set for June 8, is now one loop from the cove, site of the starting 500-meter swim leg, out to the Glass Window Bridge and back. The climaxing run leg remains 5 kilometers.

“We felt like having a natural wonder like the Glass Window and allowing the cyclists to stretch their legs on some nice level road was something we wanted to try,” said race director Tom Glucksmann, who said taking out two climbs of ‘The Hill’ on the bike was meant to make the race a little easier.

‘The Hill’ which lies just north of Gregory Town will still be climbed twice from the saddle and twice on foot. After claiming the overall title last year Cameron Roach, of New Providence, called the hill “massive and very discouraging.” He returns this year along with wife and women’s defending champ Lori Feingold-Roach. A small contingent from Freeport is also signed up.

Glucksmann is hoping for strong interest in the new student division. High school age competitors will race on the same open course and there will be a shorter primary school race. Special prizes will be awarded to the top individual and relay finishers for both high school and primary divisions. Racers who may want to just run or bike can get help joining a team. The primary school race is a biathlon (swim-run) and will begin approximately 10:45 a.m.

“The whole point is to get more locals in the race,” said Glucksmann. “There’s no better place to start than the high schools where most of the kids have the energy and fitness to do it.”

Two or 3-person relay teams will be allowed to enter. Lifeguards on kayaks and surfboards ensure water safety and policemen will be patrolling the roads, which will remain open. Drivers are urged to slow down and use caution. Local competitors are reminded to check in punctually.

Prizes will be awarded to at least the top three finishers in each division.

Compete for a 3-night stay at Pineapple Fields Resort, two round trip airfares to Nassau on Pineapple Air, eight cases of Sands Beer (plus two for the post-race party), $100 cash courtesy of Island Made Gift Shop, a one-hour Island Touch Massage, appetizer platter/beer bucket at Rainbow Inn, lunch for two at Laughing Lizard Café, dinner for two at Daddy Joes, The Cove Resort’s amenities basket, kid’s prizes by Golden Wings Charter and festival beverage tickets courtesy of the Pineapple Festival Committee.

Contributing sponsors also include Co-Tees, The Eleutheran, Out Island Eco, Bahamas Out Island Adventures and the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

Race day is just over one month away. Check in begins 8 a.m. June 8 at the Gregory Town cove. Race start will be 8:45 a.m. sharp. To find out about early registration email tom@bahamasadventures.com.

Anyone registered before May 8th gets a free race t-shirt or tank top. Free entry into the high school and primary school divisions is currently offered. Follow race updates on facebook http://www.facebook.com/events/149027425163288/