The triathlon community has been shaken by the sudden passing of coach, competitor and general legend, Tony O'Hagan.

Tony not only won the Tauranga Half three times, and raced it 25 times, but also coached and mentored hundreds of athletes to the start line.

Together with O'Hagan Sport, the Mount Festival of Multisport want to celebrate this incredible contributor to the sport, and continue his legacy at the Tauranga Half this January.

"Tony's aim was to get the best out of an athlete given their resources. Those resources include ability, training history, training environment, and time available," says a spokesperson for the festival.

"For the first time this January, the Tony O'Hagan Cup will be awarded to one Tauranga Half competitor whose journey is inspirational to those around them.

"Targeted at those newer to the sport, this cup recognises these athletes who have overcome some milestones to get to the start line."

For those who just want to ‘Race for Tony' at this year's Tauranga Half, organisers have created personalised race bibs in Tony's memory.

To receive one of these, just donate to the Tony O'Hagan Memorial Fund (through our online entry system).

"We are currently working with Tony's family and raised funds will be going to a new foundation to be set up in Tony's honour to give back to the sport.

"If you have entered already, you can add one of these to your entry.

"It's not going to be the same without Tony at the Mount Festival this January, but let's keep his honour alive with as many of you racing in Tony O'Hagan bibs in his memory."

People wanting to enter can do so here.