What are the skills needed for a 20th century cavalry soldier? He should be able to run, swim, ride and fight with pistol and sword.
This was the beginning of the modern pentathlon, although the sport has changed since its introduction to the Olympic games in 1912, it still tests every athlete to the limit.
This test is coming to Mossel Bay in December when the crack of starting pistols and the cheers of international fans will be heard in the quite coastal town from 8–13 December.
Santos beach and surrounding venues will play host to the UIPM Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run World Championships, alongside the African Championships Laser Run, a first for Africa and a milestone for South African sport.
WATCH:
Athletes from more than 30 nations will compete bringing together global elites, para-athletes, juniors, and masters in one inclusive celebration of the modern pentathlon. According to Jenny O’Hanlon, Secretary General of the South African Modern Pentathlon Association (SAMPA), hosting both the World and African Championships “opens the door wider, giving athletes across Africa a clear, inclusive pathway toward the Olympic Pentathlon.”
Fans can look forward to three high-energy disciplines in which juniors from u9 to masters over the age of 80 will compete: • Biathle – run–swim–run along the shoreline • Triathle – run–shoot–swim–run, testing focus and endurance • Laser Run – the crowd favourite, blending speed and precision
For one week, Mossel Bay will transform into a global sporting hub, uniting world champions from Egypt, Lithuania, and beyond with South Africa’s brightest young stars.
Follow #ICONICMosselBay and @UIPMWorld for updates, schedules, and live coverage of the UIPM World Championships 2025 — a showcase of excellence, inclusivity, and world-class action on South Africa’s Garden Route.
