British Triathlon Super Series | News Feed

Nicholls and Stimpson Shine at Virgin Active London Triathlon

2011-08-02T00:00:00

In the Men’s Elite race, a strong run from Ritchie Nicholls saw the Scotsman over the line first in a time of 01.45.09, ahead of Adam Bowden (01.46.09) and Matthew Sharp (01.46.18).

Jodie Stimpson took top spot in the Women’s Elite race – finishing in 01.56.48 – with Liz Blatchford (01.58.13) and Lois Rosindale (02.00.01) joining her on the podium.

In warm sunshine, Nicholls, 24, completed the 1,500m swim in 00.19.22, then followed with a solid ride of 00.53.24 – but still faced a 25 second deficit on leaders Richard Stannard and Connor Murphy exiting T2.

But Nicholls chased down the leaders before opening up a comfortable gap to finish 32 seconds ahead of Bowden.

Nicholls said: “It feels like a breakthrough performance. I had some really good races a few years ago, but since then I’ve struggled to get back. Hopefully this is a new start.

“Things have been a bit on and off with illnesses. I was actually sick on Friday so I wasn’t going to come down here. I’m glad I did now.”

In the Women’s Elite race, Stimpson, Blatchford and Abbie Thorrington exerted pressure on the field from the outset, and maintained a healthy gap with a lead of almost two minutes entering T2.

But Stimpson pulled away during the run – completing the final stage in 00.35.12 – and crossing the line with a comfortable lead of more than 90 seconds.

After the race, she said: “I’ve been a lot more consistent this season, working really hard on several things with [coach] Michelle [Dillon]. I’m delighted to take my first victory of the season. Hopefully I’ll get some more before the year is out.”

More than 60 athletes took part in the Elite races – in addition to the 14,000 amateur competitors who travelled to London’s Docklands over the weekend.

The Wire star Dominic West and TV chef John-Christophe Novelli were part of the field on Sunday – following in the footsteps of Sir Richard Branson, Melanie C, Stacey Solomon and Ortise Williams, who all took part on Saturday.

Sir Richard said: “It’s an absolutely fantastic Virgin Active London Triathlon, and we expect to see everyone take part again next year.”

Highlights of the Virgin Active London Triathlon will be broadcast on Channel 4 at 7am on Sunday August 14^th. A YouTube featurette of the races will be live online at www.YouTube.com/LondonTri from 9am on Monday August 1^st.

Entries for the 2012 Virgin Active London Triathlon open at 9am on Monday August 1^st. For more information, visit www.thelondontriathlon.co.uk

The Virgin Active London Triathlon is proudly supported by Virgin Active, Asics, Crowne Plaza, Gatorade, Maxifuel, Speedo and Timex.

For more reaction to the Virgin Active London Triathlon:

Twitter: @Londontri

Facebook: www.facebook.com/londontriathlon

Youtube: www.youtube.com/londontri

AUSTRALIAN DENSHAM TRIUMPHS AT INAUGURAL GE CANARY WHARF TRIATHLON

2011-07-01T00:00:00

Australian Erin Densham became the 2011 GE Canary Wharf Triathlon champion this evening [Thursday 30^th June], eventually easing to victory after beating off strong competition from Hollie Avil and a spirited comeback from Jodie Stimpson. Densham finished in a time of 0:28:40, 12 seconds ahead of Avil after a powerful finish on the run.

Densham (25), from New South Wales, said: “It’s a great race and a great course. The format is awesome – you never know what’s going to happen, you’ve just got to go hard the whole time. I heard a lot of people cheering for me which always helps you lift your game.”

Second placed Hollie Avil finished in 0:28:52, continuing an impressive comeback after finishing 12^th at the European Championships last weekend. She said: “It’s another step in the right direction. The main thing is I got out there and loved it today, I’m really pleased. There wasn’t much talking going on [in the bike leg] so it was really hard work, but we pushed it and that’s what triathlon should be about.”

Despite a gutsy effort on the bike, Stimpson, the defending British Triathlon Super Series Champion, was unable to catch the front two finishing third in 0:28:59. She commented after the race: “I could see them in the distance, I could almost touch them but they were working together and they did a good job of staying ahead.

“I knew I was behind after the swim so I was in a rush to get back in touch with the leaders. I knew Erin was the girl that I had to beat. Hollie was in my sights [on the run] and I was clawing her down but in the end I just ran out of road.”

Densham breezed through the first heat in pole position with a solid performance that set her up nicely for a shot at the title. As the crowds gathered at Canary Wharf, the Aussie carried her early form into the grand final and put in a scintillating run to pull away from Avil, Lucy Hall and Abbie Thorrington to claim the champion’s trophy.

The GE Canary Wharf Triathlon is the penultimate race in this year’s British Triathlon Super Series with the podium positions still all to play for after tonight’s dramatic race.

This first ever race in the iconic business and shopping district of Canary Wharf attracted a strong contingent of athletes from Great Britain and Australia. The event also included a ‘Corporate Wave’ race which saw Canary Wharf tenants battle it out in a relay over the same course as the elite athletes, with the LOCOG team utilising their local knowledge to ultimately triumph.

Elite competitors will now look ahead to the last race in the season, the Virgin Active London Triathlon on 30^th July as the race to be crowned British Triathlon Super Series Champion 2011 enters the home straight.

AUSSIE SEXTON BANKS IMPRESSIVE WIN AT THE GE CANARY WHARF TRIATHLON

2011-07-01T00:00:00

Australian elite triathlete, Brendan Sexton, became the 2011 GE Canary Wharf Triathlon champion this evening [Thursday 30^th June] after beating off strong competition from British duo, Aaron Harris and Matt Gunby. Sexton finished in a time of 0:26:11 after an exciting sprint finish in front of huge city crowds followed just over a second behind by Harris, who beat Gunby into third place.

Sexton commented on the rush to the finish line: “Aaron really gave it to me tonight and there were parts when I wasn’t sure I could hold onto him. I knew I had a good sprint in me so if I could hang onto him in that last quarter then I knew I’d give him a real go, it was great fun.

“I love a good battle when it comes down to the finish line like that; it makes it sweeter knowing you pushed all the way to the end.”

Second placed Harris said: “Tonight was awesome, it was one of my best races - I felt brilliant. It was just a shame to be pipped by an Aussie but I’m happy with second here at the GE Canary Wharf Triathlon. “

Commenting on the Super Sprint format he added: “I would love to come back and race it all over again, I enjoyed the heat and the final, it’s just like track racing, it’s brilliant.”

Gunby, who snatched third spot on the podium said: “The pace was really on tonight, particularly early doors. I wanted to stay towards the front of the bike if possible but the first three or four laps I just couldn’t work my way through. Thankfully it eased off towards the end and I was able to work my way up.

“With such a short run I knew I needed to be towards the front for the second transition because you don’t want any deficit left to make up. During the run I felt awesome, I was closing the guys down and feeling great but it was one of those days.

“Tonight has been great, the atmosphere for the final was really good. Earlier for the heats the sun was out and for the final it was almost dark, so they were two really different races but they were equally as fun.”

Sexton eased through the first heat in pole position with a solid all-round performance. As the crowds gathered at Canary Wharf, Aussie Sexton carried his early form into the decider and put in a powerful sprint finish to claim the champion’s trophy and make it a double for Australia with Erin Densham claiming the title for the women.

The GE Canary Wharf Triathlon is the penultimate race in this year’s British Triathlon Super Series with the podium positions still all to play for after tonight’s epic competition.

The first ever triathlon in the iconic business and shopping district of Canary Wharf attracted athletes from mainland Europe, Australia, the United States and South Africa as well as a strong contingent from the UK.

STRATHCLYDE COUNTRY PARK COMES ALIVE WITH BRITISH TRIATHLON SUPER SERIES

2011-05-22T00:00:00

The British Triathlon Super Series kicked off in style at Strathclyde Country Park today as over 200 amateur triathletes and a stellar elite field turned out for the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon.

Despite heavy rain clouds circling ominously overhead throughout the morning, participants and spectators were undeterred as Strathclyde Country Park came alive to the sound and sight of the British Triathlon Super Series.

At 08.45 the first wave of novice triathletes entered Strathclyde Loch for the start of the first race. Ryan Kinnaird crossed the line first in the male novice event and said:

“They put on a good event down at Strathclyde Park. Even for beginners the swim course is really, really good and it’s a great venue for people to try and get involved in the sport.”

Rebecca Spring who took part in the novice race was full of enthusiasm at the finish line:

“It’s been really good, I have really, really enjoyed it. It was a challenging, the swim was a lot better than I thought it was going to be, but the run was the hardest element, the run was really hard. It’s my first triathlon, a friend did it last year, I came along and watched and it looked like a great event so did a bit of training before I came along.”

Gordon Benson, a member of British Triathlon’s Olympic Talent squad won the junior men’s event in 1:01.02 and welcomed the supporters around the course, adding:

“There was great support from all my friends and family, there is a really good atmosphere up here and I have really enjoyed it.”

Despite the rain showers there was huge support for the elite men’s and women’s races that saw Tim Don and Helen Jenkins come home as winners. As the dust settles at Strathclyde Country Park, the British Triathlon Super Series moves on to ‘Round Two’ at the GE Blenheim Triathlon on 4 June.

‘THE DON’ CRUISES TO GE STRATHCLYDE PARK TRIATHLON VICTORY

2011-05-22T00:00:00

Tim Don cruised to an impressive victory at the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon today (Sunday 22 May), continuing a hot streak of form that has seen the Londoner take the tape at Seoul and Port Elizabeth in recent months.

Don (33) came out of the water in third place (behind Aaron Harris and junior athlete Gordon Benson) but benefitted from a super smooth transition, entering the bike leg in pole position. From that point on the chasing pack couldn’t keep up with the experienced Don, who quickly opened up a devastating lead and finished in an impressive time of 58:02:10.

Speaking at the finish line a delighted Don said:

“I’m just so glad it wasn’t as cold as it could have been. Yesterday the weather wasn’t so good but when the sun’s out I really enjoy it. I wanted to have a really hard hit out there today, so I just put my head down and no one came with me.”

Despite the blustery conditions, Don seemed to relish his first race in Scotland.

“The wind was quite brutal on the run – going out from transition there was a big headwind” said Don.

“But that’s all part of triathlon. You’re only as good as your last race, but I’m really pleased with how I’m progressing.”

Adam Bowden, who had the fastest run in the elite men’s field and finished second overall said: “I just kept saying to myself ‘push, push, push’. My legs were hurting but I thought to myself if I get the wind behind me and I can get up to a good speed and drop the guys around me. I didn’t feel right on the bike, but I don’t have the years of cycling behind me compared to some of the other athletes, but I’m sure I will improve with every race.”

Matthew Sharp, who finished in third place in a time of 59:08:85, just seconds behind Bowden in a time of 59:05:55, said: “I’ve raced here a few times before and this is the first time I haven’t had a puncture or I haven’t crashed, so it’s the first good performance for me here! I’m looking to progress throughout the season and finish well at the end of the year. I’ve got Windsor and Blenheim coming up and I want to do well in the British Triathlon Super Series. Being based at Loughborough it pushes you every day because you’re thinking if I’m not pushing 100 percent the guy behind me is going to take my spot. It gets you up in the morning!”

The GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon is the first race of this year’s British Triathlon Super Series with Tim Don establishing an early lead over the rest of the field as he bids to be crowned 2011 Super Series Champion.

The race, now in its third year at Strathclyde Country Park, attracted athletes from mainland Europe, Australia and Barbados as well as a strong contingent from the UK. The event also included the second race of the British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series, and a mass participation event that enabled more than 200 amateur triathletes the opportunity to achieve their own personal triathlon challenge.

Elite competitors will now look ahead to the GE Blenheim Triathlon, the second event of the Super Series, on 4 June. After Blenheim the Series heads to the Toshiba Windsor Triathlon (12 June), the GE Canary Wharf Triathlon (30 June) and finally the Virgin Active London Triathlon (30 July).

JENKINS WINS GE STRATHCLYDE PARK TRIATHLON

2011-05-22T00:00:00

Today (Sunday 22 May) Helen Jenkins became the 2011 GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon Champion after beating off strong competition from elite junior Lucy Hall and last year’s British Triathlon Super Series Champion Jodie Stimpson to secure a deserved victory.

Jenkins and Hall worked well together on the bike leg opening up a commanding lead over the rest of the field. However it was in the run that Jenkins showed her class, effortlessly pulling away from the tiring Hall and finishing in a time of 1:02:28, some two minutes ahead of the junior from Leicestershire.

A delighted Jenkins, third overall in the British Triathlon Super Series last year, said:

“That was a tough day, I’ve got a lot of respect for all the competitors today, it was so cold and windy. I knew Lucy Hall was a really fast swimmer so I tried to get close to her halfway through the swim. We worked together on the bike and because she’s a lot better technically than I am, I tried to get on her wheel for the technical sections. It really helped having her there! ”

Hall, runner up in a time of 1:04:44:15 said: “It’s such an inspiration to race with a top athlete like Helen. I knew she was a really fast runner so I knew I just had to keep calm and get through the 5km. My coach was telling me to keep up my cadence in the run. Jodie is such a brilliant athlete as well - I’m so chuffed with this performance.”

After Jenkins and Hall had built up a healthy lead from the swim, the chasing pack struggled to stay in touch despite a strong run from 2010 British Triathlon Super Series Champion Jodie Stimpson.

A disappointed Stimpson said: “I can’t swim like that in the future, that was shocking. I just had to try and chase down the leading pair as best I could. They worked awesome together. What can I say (about Helen), she’s one of the best there is. I knew I was running well but I left it far too late – you can’t give someone two minutes on a 5km run, it’s just too short to catch up. ”

The GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon is the first race of this year’s British Triathlon Super Series with Helen Jenkins establishing an early lead over the rest of the field as she bids to be crowned 2011 Super Series Champion.

A look back at the 2010 GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon

2011-05-03T00:00:00

With the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon now less than three weeks away we’re taking a look back at last year’s race and what proved to be a sensational event.

The 2010 season got underway at Strathclyde Park in Scotland when blue skies and a warm Spring sun shone down on the 2014 Commonwealth Games course.

In the elite women’s race, Great Britain’s Jacqueline Slack became the 2010 GE Strathclyde Park ITU Triathlon European Cup Champion beating off strong competition from Alexandra Tondeur and Charlotte McShane who came in second and third respectively.

Slack, from Stoke-on-Trent, came out of the water in the chasing pack where she remained until she pulled on her running shoes and pushed up through the field to take the lead. With a finishing time of 02:05:54 she exceeded her own expectations to take the win.

She said: “I’m amazed to be honest, I didn’t expect to come out and win. I was aiming for top five, possibly top three – either would have been great so early in the season, I’m delighted.

In the elite men’s race Scotland’s own Ritchie Nicholls was crowned the 2010 champion with a time of 01.50.34. Hot on his heels were David McNamee and Bryan Keane who came in second and third respectively.

Ritchie Nicholls from Montrose came out of the swim trailing behind the first pack and continued to chase the leaders throughout the bike. It was the run where he really pushed for the podium position. Nicholls was delighted with his achievement and said: “I’m really happy about it, I’m not normally a good swimmer but made up for it in the run, I slowed a little near to the end but I managed to hold onto the lead.

“It’s great to get the experience on this course, I’ve raced here a few times and never raced well so it’s good to put that right today.”

Former British and Scottish endurance runner, Yvonne Murray, came out of retirement to run her ‘Team Murray’ relay team home in an impressive 00:45:45 to claim eighth place in the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon Novice race. Yvonne’s team mates were swimmer Cliona Ferguson, a Scottish Triathlon Junior Squad athlete, and Ruth Walker, a feature writer for The Scotsman, on the bike.

Finlay Rae (15), from Ayrshire, claimed the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon Novice men’s title in 00:34:09. While Kimberley Preston (17), from Stoneheaven took the novice women’s title with a time of 00:39:30.

With a strong elite field once again this year and a healthy number of age-group entries, the 2011 GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon promises to once again deliver an exciting and action-packed day’s triathlon.

Entries for the age-group race and novice triathlon are still available. Go to www.strathclydeparktriathlon.com to register.

British Youth and Junior Championships Announced

2011-04-26T00:00:00

British Triathlon is pleased to announce the 2011 British Youth and Junior Triathlon Championships will take place on 4 and 5 June as part of the GE Blenheim Triathlon.

The announcement adds additional prestige to what is one of the favourite events on the triathlon calendar and the second event of the 2011 British Triathlon Super Series.

The event which is also the third of the British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series will bring together some of the most promising talent from across the UK, providing a world class environment to prepare our future Olympic hopefuls.

Last year saw Sky Draper win the British Youth Championships at the GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon, which ultimately helped her clinch the overall British Triathlon Youth Super Series title. Liam Lloyd won the boy’s event on home soil in Wales.

The 2010 British Junior Championships was won by an impressive Tom Bishop who followed up his silver at the Junior World Championships with the title. The women’s Junior Championships became a battle of the Lucy’s, with Lucy Hall taking gold, with Lucy Smith second and Lucy Chittenden in third, the latter two found themselves on the podium for the Junior Super Series just moments later.

Simon Mills, Performance Development Manager for British Triathlon said: “The British Triathlon Youth and Junior Championships is a great opportunity for our most talented and upcoming athletes to compete in a World Class environment and go head to head with athletes of similar ability and aptitude. To have the event as part of the GE Blenheim Triathlon will take the event to another level and will be a great experience for all the triathletes racing in front of such a big crowd, supporting them around the course.”

James Robinson, Managing Director, Challenger World added: “We are delighted to welcome the Youth and Junior Championships to the GE Blenheim Triathlon. I am sure the participants will revel in the opportunity of racing with the elites and look forward to some very exciting racing.”

Strathclyde Park Hosts Triathlon Masterclass

2011-03-30T00:00:00

Following the success of last year’s race, Strathclyde Country Park, venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, will host the curtain-raiser for the British Triathlon Super Series on Sunday 22^nd May 2011.

Some of the world’s best elite triathletes will compete over the sprint distance course set in the grounds of beautiful Strathclyde Country Park and the 200 acre loch, as the Super Series returns to Scotland.

Last year’s elite women’s winner, Jacqueline Slack, and triathlonscotland Coach of the Year 2010, Gordon Crawford, held a demonstration and question and answer session at Strathclyde Country Park today for a group of amateur triathletes already signed up to this year’s mass participation race.

Offering hints and tips on how to best negotiate the often complex transition section of the race, Gordon and Jacqueline were also on hand to answer questions on training, diet, equipment and race tactics.

Reflecting on last year’s win, Jacqueline Slack said:

“The GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon is set in a beautiful venue. It’s spectator friendly and can make a great day out for families. I love the course here: it’s deceptively challenging and always makes for a good race”

This year the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon will also see the return of the mass participation race with a youth sprint (400m swim, 10.6km bicycle, 2.5km run), age group sprint (750m swim, 21.2km bicycle, 5km run) and novice triathlon (300m swim, 10.6km bicycle, 2.5km run) for budding triathletes of all abilities.

Zara Hyde Peters the Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon welcomed the return of the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon:

“We’re delighted that the British Triathlon Super Series is returning to Strathclyde Country Park, the iconic triathlon venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Last year, the venue showed once again, that it delivers world class racing, good crowds and a perfect setting for age group athletes to race alongside the elite. With the continued support of our partners Event Scotland and North Lanarkshire Council, we’re sure Strathclyde Country Park will kick things off in style”

Mark Elborne, President & CEO, GE UK said:

“As a worldwide partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the official partner of British Triathlon, GE is proud to sponsor the Strathclyde Park Triathlon for the second year running. This is a fantastic event and provides a good challenge for both the elite field and for the hundreds of those in the mass participation event. We have 2,000 employees in Scotland, and I’m sure every one of them will be cheering each competitor across the finish line.”

Canary Wharf to Host New Triathlon Event

2011-03-09T00:00:00

Canary Wharf will host one of the most exciting new sports events of the summer on the evening of Thursday 30 June 2011 as a brand-new race is added to the British Triathlon Super Series calendar.

Some of the world’s best elite triathletes will take on a Super-Sprint eliminator in what promises to be a high-octane spectacle around the famous Canary Wharf business and shopping district. Through a series of heats, 50 starters will be ruthlessly whittled down to 20 for the grand final. Each heat will comprise of just 30 minutes of fast-paced, flat-out swimming (400m), cycling (10km) and running (2km).

Zara Hyde Peters OBE, the Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon, welcomed the announcement of the GE Canary Wharf Triathlon:

“The GE Canary Wharf Triathlon promises to be a groundbreaking event. For the first time since Strathclyde Country Park in 2008, the British Triathlon Super Series will include a Super-Sprint event as elite triathletes compete at close quarters against the stunning backdrop of Canary Wharf. It has always been our ambition to bring more triathlon to the heart of British cities and this is a fantastic opportunity.

“The event will provide an incredible spectator experience with the prime evening timing and compact course allowing triathlon and sport fans alike to get up close and personal with world class athletes in our fast growing, dynamic and modern Olympic sport.”

London born triathlete and last year’s Super Series winner Tim Don gave his backing to the race:

“It’s fantastic to have such an iconic new venue included in the Super Series. The super sprint format will ensure high octane racing and huge excitement for athletes and spectators alike.”

In addition to the elite performers, Canary Wharf-based companies are being invited to enter in a ‘corporate wave’ relay event that will see successful entrants race the same course as the elites. This exclusive race will take place between the heats and finals of the elite races.

Said Mark Elborne, President and CEO of GE UK:

“This new race sponsorship further strengthens GE’s commitment to the British Triathlon Federation and to one of the most exciting and fastest growing sports in the UK.

“This new race is unique in allowing local businesses the chance to compete alongside and be inspired by elite Triathletes from the UK and around the World against the iconic backdrop of Canary Wharf.”

Sian Astrop, Arts & Events Manager at Canary Wharf Group plc said:

“Canary Wharf is fast becoming a centre for world class competitive sporting events, which is hugely exciting given the Olympics are just around the corner.

“Canary Wharf is the perfect location for the GE Canary Wharf Triathlon, with the fast paced course of the North and South Colonnades circling Canary Wharf’s outdoor landscaped areas of Cabot Square and Canada Square Park. With an abundance of Canary Wharf bars, restaurants and cafés all offering spectacular vantage points and some of London’s best hospitality options - Canary Wharf offers the very best for this Super-Sprint Eliminator Triathlon event.”

The event will see North and South Colonnade, Canada and Cabot Square at Canary Wharf closed for approximately from 5pm to 10pm on the evening of 30 June; however all public car parks will be kept open throughout.

Toshiba announce sponsorship of prestigious Windsor Triathlon

2011-02-07T00:00:00

Toshiba UK and Human Race, the UK’s leading multi sport event organiser, today announce a two year partnership that will see Toshiba UK become headline sponsor for what will become the Toshiba Windsor Triathlon, the country’s most prestigious event of its kind. The event attracts 2,500 competitors, including a world class elite field, who will compete to win the coveted race winner title.

Toshiba is supporting the partnership with an integrated marketing programme which includes social media activity, an online campaign and media partnerships. As part of the sponsorship, the Toshiba logo will adorn the race barriers, swim caps and flags on the day of the event – highlights of which will be aired on Channel 4. As well as the marketing campaign, a group of Toshiba employees will be taking the sponsorship to the next level themselves, as they train to take part in the race on the big day.

The partnership builds on Toshiba’s heritage of sports partnerships, which have included several other high-profile global sponsorships in recent years, and follows the announcement that Toshiba will sponsor this year’s Rugby World Cup,

“Triathlon racing is the fastest growing Olympic sport in the UK, with more and more people taking part every year. With the anticipation growing for 2012, we’re excited to be part of this activity, which has seen an enormous response from keen athletes across the country.” said Matt McDowell, Marketing Director; Toshiba UK.

“Technology and sport are becoming ever more integrated, with advances in the field improving every aspect of sport easier and more enjoyable – from recording and monitoring stats and scores, to offering advanced training software. It’s a great fit that a leading technology manufacturer like Toshiba offers its support with events like this, and we’re thrilled to be on-board for this year’s race”.

John Lunt, Human Race Managing Director added: “As the Windsor Triathlon celebrates its 21st year, we are delighted to have Toshiba on board as title sponsor. It is fantastic to be working with a dynamic global brand whose extensive range of technology products are integral to the lives of our athletes and we look forward to developing the event together.”

On the weekend itself, Toshiba will showcase its range of laptops, televisions and camcorders in the race village and awarding them as prizes to winning competitors in each sector.

The 2011 Toshiba Windsor Triathlon takes place on the 11^th – 12^th June, and includes a 42km bike ride, 1.5km swim and 10km run for the Olympic and Elite race and a 750m swim in the Thames, a 5km run and a 30 km bike ride for the Sprint race. For more details about the Windsor Triathlon visit: http://www.humanrace.co.uk/events/triathlon/windsor-triathlon-2011

Find out more about Toshiba UK on Facebook (www.facebook.com/toshibauk), Twitter (www.twitter.com/toshibauk) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/uktoshiba)

HELEN JENKINS WINS THE GE PARC BRYN BACH TRIATHLON

2010-09-21T00:00:00

Today Wales’ Helen Jenkins became the 2010 GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon Champion in an impressive time of 01:04:00, beating off strong competition from Jodie Stimpson and Kerry Lang who came in second and third respectively.

Lucy Hall was first to emerge from the water, closely followed by Abbie Thorrington, Helen Jenkins, Jodie Stimpson, Liz Blatchford and Kerry Lang, who together formed the first lead bike pack. The winning trio pulled away from the rest of the field as the bike laps passed to produce a strong lead heading out of transition two for the 5km run around the lake at Parc Bryn Bach.

It was Jenkins who stretched out on the run to take the first position in front of her awaiting home crowd, and putting herself third overall in the British Triathlon Super Series.

Jenkins, from Bridgend, found it a tough race but was thrilled to pull out the win on Welsh soil: “It was really cold for the swim, my hand and toes weren’t functioning, Liz Blatchford actually undid my wetsuit, so thank you so much to Liz, I just couldn’t undo it, my hands are still white.

“Jodie is such a good runner and I knew she would try and take it out fast. I tried to stay with her and then pushed it out, it hurt all the way until I got to the carpet and did some high fives with the crowd which was great.

“It feels amazing to win at home and I loved having a flag, it was brilliant and lovely to have the home support.”

The overall British Triathlon Super Series winner, Stimpson, of Oldbury, recorded a time of 01:04:35. She was thrilled to take the title for a second consecutive year and was grateful for all the support: “Today’s race was great, I won the Super Series last year and I really wanted to come back and defend my title. I knew it was going to be a hard race, with Helen here especially, so I am really chuffed with the result.

“To be honest I think half the crowd is my family, I have got loads of support up here and it just made me race harder.”

Lang of Glasgow, who finished in 01:05:15, was happy with her performance after overcoming some health issues: “I had a fantastic race today, I’m really pleased. I have had a difficult season with a few problems with my chest but it’s been great to get out and race in the British Elite Triathlon Championships and podium. It’s a very tough sport and with the Olympics in 2012 the British Elite Triathlon Championships are very competitive so I’m delighted.

“The course here in Bryn Bach is superb and it’s a typical Scottish day, it’s very windy and wet, the water was cold and it’s certainly a course that you couldn’t hide on it and it shows you’re a true triathlete.

“With it being the junior and youth races as well today there’s a lot of Scottish support in the crowd so all over the course I heard people shouting for me so it’s really been fantastic.”

The event marks the close of the Super Series events for 2010 as well as being the last race in the triathlon calendar this year. It hosted, alongside the Super Series, the British Triathlon Inter Regional Championships (Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories) which showcased some of the best young triathlon talent the UK has to offer. Triathletes as young as 11 raced for national titles over the challenging course in the Welsh Valleys.

Also included in the action packed race schedule were the British Triathlon Sprint Distance Elite Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

BROWNLEE BROTHERS CROSS FINISHING LINE TOGETHER

2010-09-21T00:00:00

Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee today finished their seasons on a high as they crossed the finishing line at the 2010 GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon together in a time of 00:58:12. Hot on their heels was Stuart Hayes who finished in third.

Jonathan Brownlee was first out of the lake at Parc Bryn Bach, who along with brother Alistair, and Stuart Hayes led throughout the bike section fending off fourth place Tim Don who today clinched the overall British Triathlon Super Series title.

After receiving a time penalty in transition two, Hayes was always chasing the Brownlees in the run, finishing ultimately just 17 seconds behind the brothers in 00:58:29.

Alistair said after the race: “It was nice to cross the line together as we are both tired after a long season. There were good crowds here today and it was nice to race at home in the UK. It’s been a long long year so I’m looking forward to a couple of weeks off and then getting back into my winter training.”

Jonathan added: “It was a nice way to end the season with my brother, I was really proud to cross with him (Alistair), he is a great athlete. It’s been a good season for him (Alistair) and for both of us really. He’s the best in the world, of course I’d like to catch him because I want to be the best in the world just like everyone else and to do that I have to beat Al. All I can do is go out and train hard with him.”

Hayes, of Hounslow, was in a positive mood after the race and looking ahead to London 2012: “The race went really well today, it was a little bit cold, but I really enjoyed it. It’s a real technical course and the Brownlee brothers are very, very strong, you can see why they are the best in the world, they just don’t give up.

“It’s a great event, it’s just a shame that it was so cold but that’s Great Britain for you and that’s what makes us tough, and for 2012 this is what we are going to have to get used to.”

The event marks the close of the British Triathlon Super Series events for 2010 as well as being the last race in the triathlon calendar this year. It hosted, alongside the Super Series, the British Triathlon Inter Regional Championships (Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories) which showcased some of the best young triathlon talent the UK has to offer. Triathletes as young as 11 raced for national titles over the challenging course in the Welsh Valleys.

Also included in the action packed race schedule were the British Triathlon Sprint Distance Elite Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

TIM DON AND JODIE STIMPSON ARE CROWNED 2010 BRITISH TRIATHLON SUPER SERIES CHAMPIONS

2010-09-21T00:00:00

Great Britain’s Tim Don and Jodie Stimpson were today named the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series men’s and women’s Champions. The final race of the Series was the GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon, in Wales today which sealed the deal for both Tim and Jodie when he came in fourth place and Jodie came in second after Helen Jenkins.

After a difficult weekend in Budapest last week, Tim struggled with a hip injury but came in with a strong time of 00:59:30 after both Jonathon and Alistair Brownlee and Stuart Hayes to claim the overall British Triathlon Super Series championship title. Jodie followed Wales’ own Helen Jenkins over the finish line in Parc Bryn Bach with an impressive time of 01:04:35, which was enough to earn her the British Triathlon Super Series title.

Jodie was delighted to claim the top step on the podium of the Super Series for the second year running: “It’s great to win the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series and defend my title from last year. It would have been better obviously to have got a win today in Parc Bryn Bach but when you’re racing Helen (Jenkins) it’s going to be a hard day.

“The races across the Super Series have been great, I missed a couple of races so I had to perform well today. But, it all came together throughout the day which was great.”

Tim was also thrilled with his first ever Super Series win: “I’ve never won the Super Series before, so it’s really nice to have won. The key thing for me this year has just been consistency in everything, training and racing, so to win a series you’ve got to be consistent. I was a bit unlucky last week in Budapest, I would have liked to have been more competitive today but my hip has been pretty sore so it was more survival than actual racing. But I had a great time out there, it’s a great event here and the sun is coming out so overall I’m really chuffed.

“The crowds were good today too, it was nice to mix it up and have the juniors and the Inter Regional Championships on the same day, I hope they had a great day, I know I did. I don’t think today was necessarily just about Al, Jonny, Stuart and myself, it was about the whole sport and where triathlon is today in the country, it’s healthy.”

The GE Parc Bryn Bach triathlon marked the close of the five-race Super Series events of 2010. The competing athletes gain points from their best three finishes from the five races, which includes the London Triathlon. Both Jodie and Tim had the most points following wins at Blenheim and second places in London earlier in the season.

Alongside Tim on the podium for the Super Series were Stuart Hayes and Tom Bishop who came second and third respectively in the rankings. While Jodie stood alongside Jacqueline Slack in second place and Helen Jenkins who was third in the overall rankings following the exciting race in Parc Bryn Bach.

The Super Series harnesses the increasing energy for one of the fastest growing Olympic sports to take spectator support and mass participation to a new level whilst showcasing elite athletes in world class events.

GE is the Elite Team Partner of the British Triathlon Federation providing support and expertise for the athletes as they prepare and compete at the highest levels in the run up to the 2012 Olympic Games.

Top triathletes travel from Budapest to Parc Bryn Bach

2010-09-17T00:00:00

Joining the elite field this weekend in the GE Parc Bryn Bach triathlon are some of the members of the GE Great Britain Team fresh from the Dextro Energy Triathlon – ITU Triathlon World Championship Grand Final in Budapest last weekend. GE Great Britain Team triathlete Alistair Brownlee took the top step on the podium in Budapest, while Vicky Holland and Helen Jenkins finished sixth and seventh respectively in the women’s race. All three athletes will be travelling to South Wales this weekend for the final event of the five-race British Triathlon Super Series 2010.

Alistair and his younger brother, Jonathan Brownlee are heading to Wales on the 19 September hoping to end their successful seasons on a high. After a tough start to the season with an injury, Alistair took the win in Budapest which meant he ranked 6^th overall in the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championship Series. Only hours later, Jonathan crossed the finish line in first place in the U23 event, making it a fantastic weekend for the triathlete brothers.

Jonathan said: “It was a great weekend for both me and Alistair in Budapest. For us both to win our events there was brilliant and I am really looking forward to competing in Wales with my brother.”

Alistair continued: “It was difficult coming back after my injury earlier in the season but to win in Budapest, the final race of the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championship Series, was great. I hope that I and Jonny do just as well in Parc Bryn Bach this weekend; it would be a nice way to end such a great season.”

In the junior men’s race, Tom Bishop from Derby took an impressive silver medal in Budapest and he too will be in Wales adding to the spectacular field of talented competing athletes. Tom said: “I'm feeling good for the race coming up this weekend. I have a big confidence boost after Budapest and hope to make some of the elite guys work hard to beat me. It is also the last race of the season so I can put everything into it which should be fun.”

The GE Parc Bryn Bach triathlon is part of the British Triathlon Super Series and marks the close of the British Triathlon season for 2010. It hosts, alongside the Super Series, the British Triathlon Inter Regional Championships (Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories) which will showcase some of the best young triathlon talent the UK has to offer. Triathletes as young as 12 will be racing for national titles over the challenging course in the Welsh Valleys.

Also included in an action packed race schedule are the British Elite Triathlon Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

ENDS

GE PARC BRYN BACH TRIATHLON DRAWS SUPER SERIES TO A CLOSE

2010-09-17T00:00:00

The GE Parc Bryn Bach triathlon takes place this Sunday 19 September where the men’s and women’s champions of the five-race British Triathlon Super Series will be crowned. The event also constitutes the finale to the GE Great Britain Triathlon Team’s season following their return from the Dextro Energy Triathlon - ITU Triathlon World Championship Grand Final in Budapest.

The event in Bryn Bach has a fantastic elite field with big names such as Alistair Brownlee who won the senior race in Budapest and brother, Jonathan Brownlee added the U23 World Champion title to his World Sprint title won in Lausanne., Local favourite, Helen Jenkins also features on the start list for the Blaenau Gwent event.

Within the 50 British senior men’s names, seven of the current top 10 in the Super Series will be participating, including Tim Don, Steven Worthington and Stuart Hayes, who are ranked second, third and fourth respectively, which should make for a tense end to the Super Series Championship.

Alongside the Super Series, the British Triathlon Inter Regional Championships (Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories) have been incorporated and will showcase some of the best young triathlon talent the UK has to offer.

Also included in an action packed race schedule are the British Elite Triathlon Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series where triathletes will be racing for national titles over the challenging course in the Welsh Valleys.

The Inter Regional Championships (IRCs) will kick start the events on Sunday with the TriStar 2 girls race starting at 09:00am. The Elite and Junior women get started in the lake in Parc Bryn Bach at 13:15pm with the men getting underway at 14:50pm. The event provides an exciting spectacle of international sport in a world class setting and with admission to the park free to all, spectators can enjoy a fun day out with all the family.

ENDS

Youth Olympic stars to compete in The GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon

2010-09-14T00:00:00

Fresh from their success at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, triathletes, Elinor Thorogood and Andrew Hood, will be joining the elite field at The GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon taking place on the 19 September 2010.

Elinor, who is from Aberystwyth in Wales, did extremely well in Singapore during the Youth Olympics which took place from 14-26 August. She achieved her goal of a top 15 spot, placing 13^th in the triathlon event after some meticulous preparations for her trip to the Far East which included training in a heat chamber.

Elinor was the GE Great Britain Triathlon Teams’ sole female triathlon representative and Britain’s first competitor to set foot on the field of play at the Youth Olympic Games, as she ran down the beach at East Coast Park to enter the swim element of the race.

Elinor said: “Singapore was really good, the whole experience was completely different to anything that I have done before. It was great to be there mixing with the best in the world, and its great experience to be competing at that sort of level, it’s definitely the highest level I have competed at so far.

“I’m really looking forward to Bryn Bach, I feel confident going in that I should finish in a fairly good position overall, it would be great to finish on a high. I’m also excited that it is in my home country, Wales. It’s really important to have that and I should get some good support from the home crowds which will be great.”

Andrew Hood, who was one of only two Scots competing at the Games, crossed the finish line in a fantastic 15th place.

Andrew said: “Singapore was a very good experience, I certainly learnt a lot of new things about myself and about a major games environment. It was the biggest race I’ve ever competed in and the preparation before hand was also big for me. The actual race was pretty tough but I went there wanting a top 15 place and I achieved 15^th so I got the result I wanted.

“Since getting back I’ve had a couple of weeks of intense training, of which I have another three days to go. Next week I’ll ease off the training ahead of the race on Sunday at Parc Bryn Bach. I’m going into that race feeling fairly confident and I’m really hoping to podium at the junior level.”

Elinor and Andrew were two of just 40 young British athletes selected to attend the Youth Olympic Games this year and they have both gained a huge amount of experience from their trip to Singapore and will be able to use what they have learnt as they step out with the elite field in Blaenau Gwent’s Parc Bryn Bach.

Triathletes as young as 12 will be racing for national titles over the challenging course in the Welsh Valleys, which has played host to elite triathlon for the past three years.

Also included in an action packed race schedule are the British Elite Triathlon Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

Elite Women’s Start List Announced for GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon

2010-09-14T00:00:00

Following yesterday’s men’s elite field announcement, British Triathlon is pleased to announce an equally impressive women’s elite start list for the GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon, the last event of the five-race Super Series competition. The event will be held on Sunday 19 September 2010 and will conclude the GE Great Britain Triathlon Team’s season as they return from the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU Triathlon World Championship Grand Final in Budapest.

Notable names who will be taking part are Helen Jenkins, Liz Blatchford, Katie Ingram, Kerry Lang, Jacqueline Slack and Jodie Stimpson, with the latter two sitting in first and second position respectively in the 2010 Super Series rankings.

Along with Helen Jenkins, the Welsh contingent also consists of Non Stanford, who placed second in the 2009 Super Series, and Carol Bridge.

Jenkins, who recently won the fourth Super Series event at the Challenger World London Triathlon, is excited about racing on home soil and continuing her strong form: “I can’t wait to get out on the challenging course Parc Bryn Bach offers and prove myself on home ground. I’ve had a great season so far and aim to make the podium next Sunday, hopefully with lots of local support.”

Alongside the Super Series, the British Triathlon Inter Regional Championships (Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories) have been incorporated, which will showcase some of the best young triathlon talent the UK has to offer. Also included in an action packed race schedule are the British Elite Triathlon Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

Elite Women’s athletes for the GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon:

Kerry Lang	Scottish
Liz Blatchford	England
Kirsty McWilliam	Scottish
Vicky Holland	England
Zoe Thomas	Wales
Olivia Bryant	England
Nicola Duggan	England
Eli Thorogood	Wales
Lois Rosindale	England
Nicola Morgan	England
Abbie Thorrington	England
Carol Bridge	Wales
Katie Ingram	England
Emily McLoughlin	England
Lucy Smith	England
Helen Jenkins	Wales
Jodie Stimpson	England
Lara Nyman	England
Georgie Freeman	England
Brit Tate	England
Hannah Drewett	England
Lucy Chittenden	England
Liz Burrows	England
Victoria Johnson	England
Venita Dabhi	England
Kimberly Preston	Scottish
Lucy Ross	Scottish
Vanessa Raw	England
Lucy Hall	England
Sophie Coleman	England
Harriett Brettle	England
Becky Hewitt	England
Jacqui Slack	England
Jenny Manners	England
Non Stanford	Wales
Charlotte McShane	Australia

Strong Elite Men’s Field Announced for GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon

2010-09-14T00:00:00

A strong elite men’s field has been announced for the 2010 GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon, which will be held on 19 September. The event, which is the last of the five-race British Triathlon Super Series, also constitutes the finale to the GE Great Britain Triathlon Team’s season following their return from the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU Triathlon World Championship Grand Final in Budapest.

Big names such as Alistair Brownlee, Jonathan Brownlee, Olly Freeman and Will Clarke feature on the start list for Blaenau Gwent event.

Within the 50 British senior names, eight of the final top 10 from the 2009 British Triathlon Super Series will be participating, including Stuart Hayes, Aaron Harris and Phil Wolfe who finished first, second and third respectively.

There will also be local interest in Welsh athlete Luke Watson, who will be looking to impress at his home race.

Aaron Harris, 22, who won the 2009 Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon, is looking forward to getting back on the course, but is not necessarily expecting to take the win this year having not raced since June due to injury: “It will be great to go back to Parc Bryn Bach and compete. I’m not anticipating a podium finish but am keen to take part and see what happens after missing the past couple of months.”

Jonathan Brownlee, 20, the 2010 ITU Elite Sprint Triathlon World Champion, is keen to finish his season on a high as he races for the first time at Parc Bryn Bach: “This year has been a real breakthrough year for me, and I want to finish the season with a win. It will be great to race at Parc Bryn Bach as I haven’t competed there before and I’ve heard it’s a challenging course.”

Heather Williams, Performance Director at British Triathlon, is looking forward to the finale of the Super Series and is delighted at the quality of the field: “We are obviously pleased to have the level of field which we have for this final Super Series event. Having staged events at Parc Bryn Bach in previous years, we know the course will provide a good test for all the athletes taking part in the race.”

Also included in an action packed race schedule are the British Elite Triathlon Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

Triathletes as young as 11 will be racing for national titles over the challenging course in the Welsh Valleys, which has played host to elite triathlon for the past three years.

Elite Men’s athletes for the GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon:

David McNamee	Scottish
Tom Bishop	English
David Bishop	English
Richie Nicholls	Scottish
Peter Anderson	Scottish
Will Johnson	Scottish
Mark Threlfall	English
Aaron Harris	English
Olly Freeman	English
James Adams	English
Andrew Hood	Scottish
George Brear	English
Charlie White	English
Iestyn Harrett	Wales
Josh Harris	Wales
Carl Shaw	English
Barney Reed	English
Olly Stanley	English
Ryhs Davey	English
Ali Brownlee	English
Jonny Brownlee	English
Will Clarke	English
Stu Hayes	English
Dan Halksworth	English
Beau Smith	English
Sam Pettitt	English
Daniel Bailey	English
Greg Turner	Scottish
Rory Downie	Scottish
Richard Stannard	English
Cameron Milne	Scottish
Alex Matchett	Wales
Andrew Christy	Scottish
Tom Watts	English
James Dean	English
Harry Wiltshire	English
David Anderson	English
Duncan McArthur	Scottish
Mark Buckingham	English
Samuel Chambers	English
Matt Gunby	English
Ben Newman	English
Alexander Young	English
Matthew Everest	English
Sam Russell	English
Tim Don	English
Neil Eddy	English
Daniel Sims	English
Alan Copland	English
Dave Bartlett	English
Martin Cain	English
Josh Cardwell	English
Luke Watson	Wales
Adam Bowden	English
Steve Worthington	English
James Gibson	English
Tom Curtis	English
Nick Beer	English
Josh Daniels	English
Brendon Sexton	Australia
Jamie Huggett	Australia
Aaron Royle	Australia
Matt Sharp	English
Phil Wolfe	English

GE PARC BRYN BACH ELITE TRIATHLON TO HOST FINALE OF BRITISH TRIATHLON SUPER SERIES

2010-08-18T00:00:00

Returning from the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU Triathlon World Championship Grand Final in early September, the GE Great Britain Triathlon Team will focus their attention on the GE Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon on Sunday 19 September as the finale to their season and the final event of the five race British Triathlon Super Series.

The Super Series has seen races take place at Strathclyde Park, the venue for the triathlon at 2014 Commonwealth Games, Blenheim, Windsor and most recently London which saw F1 ace Jenson Button and Radio One presenter Vernon Kay take part in the mass participation element of the event.

Alongside the Super Series the British Triathlon Inter Regional Championships (Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories) has been incorporated which will showcase some of the best young triathlon talent the UK has to offer. Also included in an action packed race schedule at Blaenau Gwent’s Parc Bryn Bach are the British Triathlon Sprint Distance Elite Championships, and the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

Former 400m runner Iwan Thomas is commentating at the event and said, “I’m personally really looking forward to the Triathlon at Parc Bryn Bach, it should be a really exciting race and a fantastic ending to the British Triathlon Super Series. Being a Welshman I am delighted that we have a British Triathlon Super Series race coming to Wales. The course will be extremely challenging for all concerned and if it's like last year's race we are all in for a great event. Wales is lucky enough to be blessed with a number of great triathletes at all levels, so I am sure there will be a strong presence come race day."

Thomas completed his first Triathlon last month at the 2010 Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championships London, “I’ve always respected Triathlon as a sport and my aim was purely to complete it. It was definitely a tough event but I really enjoyed it and it was good to be in a competitive atmosphere again. It’s increased my respect for these guys who compete on a regular basis and perform at such a high level. I’m hoping to compete in another as soon as I can.”

Zara Hyde Peters the Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon thought the event at Bryn Bach was a great way to complete the season: “The British Triathlon Super Series has been a huge success this year and we’re looking forward to seeing the final showdown in September. We are particularly pleased to bring the series finale to Parc Bryn Bach where Blaenau Gwent authority and the park have always made us so welcome. This venue is synonymous with triathlon in Wales and the combination of rising talent in the Inter Regional Championships and world beating stars racing for the British Elite title is going to make this a day of competition to remember.”

Alun Ffred Jones, Minister for Heritage for the Welsh Assembly Government, said: “I’m delighted that Parc Bryn Bach will be staging a leg of the British Triathlon Super Series this year. It’s great to have another top-class sporting event hosted in Wales and this is a tribute to our growing reputation in holding events. I’m sure this first class facility and its outstanding natural setting, combined with the commitment and experience of the delivery partners will ensure that this will be a successful event.”

Jason Owen, Executive Member for Blaenau Gwent Council Leisure Services, commented: “Blaenau Gwent are delighted to once again provide the final leg for this great sporting event. Year on year Parc Bryn Bach, which is situated on the doorstep of the Brecon Beacons, has been commended as an ideal host venue for the British Triathlon Super Series due to its challenging course and great mountain location. I encourage anyone to visit the park and enjoy a day packed full of great sporting action. Blaenau Gwent Council’s Sports Development Team are organising recreational activities on the day for children to take part in and all the park’s catering facilities will be open as usual to everyone at this fantastic free occasion.”

GE, worldwide sponsor of the London 2012 Olympic Games, is inviting all Welsh Triathlon Affiliated Clubs to compete in the GE Club Challenge as part of the GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon event.

One male and one female competitor from each Welsh Triathlon Affiliated Club will compete in the aquathlon challenge which comprises a 400m swim and a 2.5km run. The team with the fastest combined time will win a performance masterclass with a GE Great Britain Elite Team Coach for their club.

Welsh Triathlon Affiliated Clubs can register their team by emailing GEtriatlon@imgworld.com by 3rd September 2010. The minimum age for competitors is 15 and there are limited places available. Participating teams will be notified by 6th September 2010.

Button back with a bang but outdone by Courtney Atkinson

2010-08-10T00:00:00

Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button returned to the Challenger World London Triathlon, an IMG event, for the second successive year finishing in a time of 02:14:15. Button was one of many famous faces on show at the world’s largest triathlon with Radio 1 DJ and TV presenter, Vernon Kay, making his triathlon debut. The Bolton-born star completed the course in a commendable 02:49:05.

Racing with Team Ichiban, consisting of his friends and engineers, Button was once again at the front of the pack. Button gave another consistently strong performance but was unable to improve on his 2009 time of 02:07:04.

Button was left in the shadows of Australia’s Courtney Atkinson who took gold in the men’s elite race, crossing the line in 01:49:03. Great Britain’s Helen Jenkins was victorious in the women’s race for the second consecutive year, finishing with a time of 02:01:01 ahead of nearest rival Jodie Stimpson.

Button said: “I wasn’t feeling very well at the start of the week, which is why I have come in a bit slower than last time round. I really didn’t want to miss out on the weekend though as I had such a fantastic time here last year so I just decided to battle through it - I had a lot of fun out there and it was great to see my friends and colleagues crossing the line.”

British Olympians, present and future, were a consistent theme over the weekend with no fewer than five involved in some capacity. Team GB athletes Cassie Patten (swimmer), Rebecca Romero (cyclist) and Emily Pidgeon (medium to long distance runner) teamed up at the Challenger World London Triathlon on Saturday, completing the course in 01:03:45.

Beijing Gold Medalists Victoria Pendleton and Tim Brabants presented the winner’s medals to both sets of elite competitors on the podium before signing autographs within the exhibition hall.

Approximately 13,000 participants entered this year’s Challenger World London Triathlon, with another 55,000 spectators lining the course and visiting the fitness and lifestyle Expo at the ExCeL throughout the weekend.

Team GB girls break old course record at Challenger World London Triathlon

2010-08-10T00:00:00

Team GB athletes Cassie Patten (swimmer), Rebecca Romero (cyclist) and Emily Pidgeon (medium to long distance runner) teamed up at the Challenger World London Triathlon, an IMG event, determined to break the Team Relay Sprint course record. The girls achieved their aim but it was a day for breaking records as professional triathletes Dion Harrison, Richard Legge and Tristan Shipsides completed the course in the impressive time of 1:01:19.

Patten got the girls off to the perfect start leading the swim all the way by some distance. The Olympic Bronze Medalist sprinted to transition to hand over to Olympic Gold Medalist Rebecca Romero for the bike leg.

Romero enjoyed the day saying; “It was great fun and a new experience for me. It was tricky in the transitions as I’m not used to running before or after I’m on my bike but it was a fun course with all the turns and roundabouts plus some good straights to pick up speed.”

The male triathletes showed their insider knowledge managing to make up the lead set by Patten leaving Pidgeon in second place as she started the 5km run. Pidgeon made a dent on the lead set by the boys but in it was the girls who finished in second place with a time of 1:03:45. The old course record was 1:05:27.

Patten had such a good time in the swim that she’s racing again to swim in the same wave as current Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button. Button returns to the Challenger World London Triathlon for the second year in a row on Sunday. The F1 star hopes to improve on his impressive 2009 time of 2 hours 7 minutes in the Olympic distance on the course that takes in famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the London Eye.

Beijing Olympic Gold Medallists Victoria Pendleton and Tim Brabants will officially start the Elite races on Sunday with Tim Brabants guiding the Elite swimmers round the swim course as the lead kayak. Pendleton and Brabants will then hand out the medals at the Elite athlete prize giving as well as meeting thousands of fans within the ExCeL.

Plus, Vernon Kay will be making his Olympic distance triathlon debut on Sunday raising money for Great Ormond Street. Kay has been training hard and receiving specialist training from Olympic swimmer Mark Foster and also Olympian Iwan Thomas who completed the Olympic distance.

Approximately 13,000 participants will be competing at this year’s Challenger World London Triathlon, with another 55,000 spectators expected to line the course and visit the fitness and lifestyle Expo at the ExCeL throughout the weekend.

Button back at the Challenger World London Triathlon

2010-08-06T00:00:00

London: 4 August 2010 - Current Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button will be racing through London at the Challenger World London Triathlon, an IMG event, on Sunday 8 August 2010. Competing for the second year in a row, Button will look to improve on his impressive 2009 time of 2 hours 7 minutes in the Olympic distance on the course that takes in famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the London Eye.

The swim, bike, run event held at London’s ExCeL Centre on 7 and 8 August will also play host to some of Team GB’s Olympians including; Victoria Pendleton, Tim Brabants, Rebecca Romero and Cassie Patten.

TV and Radio 1 presenter, Vernon Kay will be one of many celebrities in action over the weekend.

Button is part of Team Ichiban meaning ‘number one; he will aim for top spot on the podium in his age-group category after finishing second in 2009.

Team Ichiban also includes Le Mans driver Chris Buncombe, Button’s mechanics, trainers and old school friends. Button is a patron for Make a Wish Foundation and the team will be raising money and awareness for the charity which grants magical wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses. British Moto GP 125cc rider, Bradley Smith will also be racing at the same time as Button on Sunday morning. The 19 year old motorcyclist is hoping to reverse last year’s result after being beaten by Button by six minutes in 2009 – a fine effort considering Smith is 11 years his junior.

On Saturday Team GB athletes Cassie Patten (swimmer), Rebecca Romero (cyclist) and Emily Pidgeon (medium to long distance runner) team up in the Team

Relay Sprint discipline. All three are at the pinnacle of their respective sports so the girls will be hoping to break the course record which currently stands at 1:05:27.

2008 Beijing Olympic Gold Medalist in the Individual Pursuit, Rebecca Romero, commented, “When I was given the opportunity to participate at the London Triathlon, I wanted to grab it with both hands – especially when it was as part of a team looking to break the course record. I have enjoyed watching the event live before and it will be fantastic to participate with the many thousands of other competitors in the capital – bring on race day!”

In the Elite fields returning champions Will Clarke and Helen Jenkins will be looking to defend their 2009 titles on Sunday with stiff competition expected from Tim Don, Ollie Freeman, Stuarts Hayes, Jodie Stimpson and Liz Blatchford.

Vernon Kay will be making his Olympic distance triathlon debut on Sunday raising money for Great Ormond Street. Kay has been training hard and receiving specialist training from Olympic swimmer Mark Foster. Another famous face for fans to spot will be Olympian Iwan Thomas who will be talking triathlons on Vernon Kay’s BBC Radio 1 show on Saturday morning before heading straight to the ExCel to take part in the sprint distance. Kay isn’t the only radio star taking part with Magic FM’s Neil Fox tackling the sprint distance on Saturday.

Raw talent gives Vanessa the win in Windsor

2010-06-14T00:00:00

Vanessa Raw and Steve Worthington were victorious in the third race of the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series at the Nokia Windsor Triathlon, on Sunday 13 June 2010.

The exciting action unfolded under the steps and surrounding grounds of Windsor Castle, Eton and alongside the majestic River Thames with perfect weather providing optimum race conditions.

Despite tough competition throughout the elite women’s race it was Vanessa Raw’s impressive run that saw her pull away from the chasing field securing her victory in a time of 2:03.43.

Vanessa commented ‘It’s been a tough few months, so I’m delighted with my performance today. It was a beautiful course out there and a great race. I went slightly wrong on the swim and had a slow transition, but we all worked really hard together on the bike and it went well for me today.”

From the outset there was a tight group of six athletes alongside Vanessa including current GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon winner Jacqueline Slack, Emma Davis, Lucy Chittenden, Amy Wolf and Lois Rosindale, who all worked hard on the bike.

Lois Rosindale who won the Sprint race in 2008, produced a superb performance to cross the finish line in second place in 2:04.21. Astonishingly, this was only the second time that Lois had competed in a standard distance drafting race. “I’m really happy” Lois said, “I had a great bike and was able to hang onto the pack and then pushed really hard on the run. I love this event and will definitely come back.”

Meanwhile Jacqueline Slack, who is currently holding first place in the British Triathlon Super Series, had a very solid performance finishing in third place throughout to finish in 2:05.32.

In the men’s race, Mike Adams was first out of the swim and headed off onto the bike course with a 25-second lead over the first chasing pack, which included race favourites Marc Jenkins, Gavin Noble, Tom Bishop and Daniel Halksworth.
A second pack was made up of returning 2002 Champion Richard Allen, Steve Worthington, David Anderson and Tom Curtis, whose efforts to chase them down paid off, leaving both groups together on the run.

Steve Worthington performed a perfect transition and headed off on the run in first place. With Marc Jenkins, Tom Bishop, Gavin Noble and Daniel Halksworth hot on his heels, Worthington produced a blistering run, eventually pulling away on the third lap to finish in a time of 1:53.31. Marc Jenkins and Gavin Noble finished within 50 seconds behind in second and third place in a time of 1:54.03 and 1:54.17 respectively.

Worthington commented: “I got lucky on the bike and it all came together, the conditions were pretty perfect. After two years away, it was fantastic to be back and even better to improve on my previous performance. With Marc behind me I knew I had to pull out all the stops.”

Don wins at Blenheim

2010-06-07T00:00:00

Tim Don won the Blenheim Triathlon on his debut with a new course record in the second race of the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series. The former World Champion who has already won the British Elite Duathlon Championships this season put in a sterling performance of 00:58.17 to deny reigning Super Series Champion, Stuart Hayes a third consecutive victory at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire.

Tim was in the leading group for most of the race with a tight group exiting swim together and staying as a pack for much of the bike leg. The leading contenders jostled for position during the bike course as they rode through the picturesque grounds of Blenheim Palace. Hendrik De Villiers and Stuart Hayes were applying the pressure with nineteen-year -old Tom Bishop showing impressive form to put him in contention of a top place finish. It was on the run where Tim has been so dominant this year and stretched away from the group leaving Hayes in second with young Bishop taking third and cementing his position of the British Triathlon Junior Super Series.

Tim Don commented; “I absolutely loved my first triathlon here at Blenheim, the course was fantastic within the palace grounds and I really enjoyed myself. It was a tough field today with Stuart and Hendrik competing, I knew I would have to be at the top of my game to get the victory. Training has gone really well for me over the last couple of weeks and I’m looking forward to having a strong season throughout 2010.”

Don added; “It’s been a fantastic day here at Blenheim and it’s brilliant to see so many people of all ages getting stuck in, it’s good news for triathlon and makes it a lovely weekend.”

In the women’s race, last year’s champion and reigning British Triathlon Super Series Champion, Jodie Stimpson, was on fine form once again finishing in 1:05.56, over three minutes ahead of second place Non Stanford.

A delighted Jodie Stimpson commented; “I’m thrilled to have won the Blenheim Triathlon again this year – it makes it two in a row for me! It’s great to be back here at this fantastic venue and after a very good season last year, I think I have got this year’s campaign off to a great start. My running was very positive and I’m pleased with the performance I have put in here, especially with all my family and friends here to watch me.”

Male Elite
1.    Tim Don – 00:58.17
2.    Stuart Hayes – 00:58.40
3.    Tom Bishop – 00:59.03

Female Elite
1.    Jodie Stimpson – 01:05.56
2.    Non Stanford – 01:08.09
3.    Vicky Holland – 01:08.34

SCOT RITCHIE NICOLLS WINS GE STRATHCLYDE PARK TRIATHLON

2010-05-23T00:00:00

Scotland’s own Ritchie Nicholls was today crowned the 2010 GE Strathclyde Park ITU Triathlon European Cup Champion with a time of 01.50.34. Hot on his heals were David McNamee and Bryan Keane who came in second and third respectively.

Ritchie Nicholls from Montrose came out of the swim trailing behind the first pack and continued to chase the leaders throughout the bike. It was the run where he really pushed for the podium position. Nicholls was delighted with his achievement: “I’m really happy about it, I’m not normally a good swimmer but made up for it in the run, I slowed a little near to the end but I managed to hold onto the lead.

“It’s great to get the experience on this course, I’ve raced here a few times and never raced well so it’s good to put that right today.”

Fellow Scotsman David McNamee was out of the water in a quick time of 19.06, followed by a good bike and a solid run. The Stirling boy was pleased with his second place position and time of 01.50.52, “It’s good to have come second today, it would have been nicer to win of course but I was aiming for top five.

“Ritchie coming past me really inspired me to keep going and do well. I know the course inside out and it’s good to experience it during competitions. It’s exciting having the Commonwealth games in Glasgow on this course, maybe me and Ritchie will do the same thing – I just hope it’s the other way round!”

Bryan Keane, 29, from Cork came in third, he said: “It was rough today, a really hard course but to get a podium spot is brilliant. I had to work really hard for the position so am really pleased I got there in the end.”

Keane was in the last pack coming out of the water and had a strong bike but it was the run that really made a difference to his position, “I had confidence in my run and knew I could pick up places and then make a big push at the end and I was really pleased with the result.”

Trigold athlete Adam Bowden came home in 01:51:34 and took fifth position, “I had a great start in the water but my transition onto the bike wasn’t great. I kept at it but the real difference came in the run and where I really got stuck in.”

The event, which is the first of the five race British Triathlon Super Series, also held ITU Triathlon European Cup status, therefore not only does Ritchie Nicholls take the lead of the Super Series and he has also racked up ITU ranking points.

GB’S SLACK WINS THE GE STRATHCLYDE PARK TRIATHLON

2010-05-23T00:00:00

Today Great Britain’s Jacqueline Slack became the 2010 GE Strathclyde Park ITU Triathlon European Cup Champion beating off strong competition from Alexandra Tondeur and Charlotte McShane who came in second and third respectively.

She said: “I’m amazed to be honest, I didn’t expect to come out and win. I was aiming for top five, possibly top three – either would have been great so early in the season, I’m delighted.

“The swim was absolutely beautiful, the conditions were amazing, but the bike was tough and the run was really hard because of the heat and the hills.”

Slack finished tenth in the final ranking standings of the 2009 British Triathlon Super Series and she will no doubt be looking to improve on that performance this year. Today’s win in the first of the five race British Triathlon Super Series gives her and early lead over the rest of the field. “This is such an amazing start to the series for me and I now can’t wait for the next event in Blenheim.”

Second place Alexandra Tondeur of Belgium, whose finishing time was 02:06:56, said: “It feels very good today and I’m thrilled with the result because I’ve had a bad week and I’ve been really tired. It was a beautiful course but hard on the legs, especially on bike with all the hills. I was pleased with second place and looking forward to the rest of the series.”

Third place Charlotte McShane finished in 02:07:53. Charlotte was born in Scotland but competes for Australia, she said: “I’m really really happy with third place. I had a few problems during the race, I got a stop start penalty in transition for a silly mistake but definitely happy with how it all ended. The course was tough, it was really undulating, those sharp little hills really take it out of you.”

Scotland’s own Kirsty McWilliam put in a fantastic swim coming out of the water in joint first but the bike and run really took their toll on the young athlete who finished in 02:21:25 and twelfth position.

After the race Kirsty said: “I learnt how to suffer today, I honestly hated every second of that run. I swam amazingly; it went really well, it just didn’t happen for the rest of the race.”

The event holds ITU Triathlon European Cup status allowing the athletes to pick up ITU ranking points.

YVONNE STORMS HOME FOR TEAM MURRAY

2010-05-23T00:00:00

Former British and Scottish endurance runner, Yvonne Murray, came out of retirement today to run her ‘Team Murray’ relay team home in an impressive 00:45:45 to claim eighth place in the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon Novice race. Yvonne’s team mates were swimmer Cliona Ferguson, a Scottish Triathlon Junior Squad athlete, and Ruth Walker, a feature writer for The Scotsman, on the bike.

Yvonne Murray said: “I really enjoyed my part in Team Murray, the run was good until half way when my calf seized up and it was just a case of keeping going. I really didn’t want to let the team down.

“The whole opportunity has been great, the course was fantastic and really fun. One thing at a time though, not quite sure about doing a full one just yet! I watched two years ago and really wanted to join in so when I was asked to do it, I had to take the opportunity.”

Ruth Walker, The Scotsman Feature Writer, said: “It was a great day. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was very nervous to start with – made worse when I saw all the other hard core athletes and fans.

“It was really impressive to compete with Yvonne Murray, I didn’t quite realise until I got here what a big deal it was and what a great opportunity it was to race in her team. I’m not nearly fit enough to do all three elements together just yet but definitely more competitions, running and cycling mainly.”

Cliona Ferguson (15) from Cymrinold, said: “The swim today was really good – it wasn’t that cold, it felt quite tropical which isn’t normal for this location. It felt good to get in the water with a group of athletes and be at the front.

“I loved competing with Ruth and with Yvonne. I got out of the water and wanted to continue but it was nice to do it as a team.”

Finlay Rae (15), from Ayrshire, claimed the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon Novice men’s title in 00:34:09. While Kimberley Preston (17), from Stoneheaven took the women’s title with a time of 00:39:30.

Rae said: “It feels really great to win it today, it was my first time on this course because I’m only just at the age to compete here. I’m from a running background but I was especially pleased with the cycle and swim. It was really cool to compete on the course that the elite will be racing on, and am excited about staying to watch them race.”

Preston said: “It was a really tough race, I wasn’t expecting it to be so hot. It was brilliant to compete here, I raced last year and have improved a lot since. The course is set up for the elite race later and it feels bigger and more exciting than the other races I compete in. It was really exciting coming through at the end, lots of support which felt nice.”

GB Women dominate starters for GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon

2010-05-19T00:00:00

Fourteen British athletes will race against a competitive international field, which has been assembled for the 2010 GE Strathclyde Park ITU Triathlon European Cup. The event, which will be held on the 23 May in Strathclyde Country Park, is the first on the calendar of the five race British Triathlon Super Series and for 2010, it will also hold ITU Triathlon European Cup status.

Notable names who will be taking part are Scottish duo Kirsty McWilliams and Kerry Lang, the latter will be looking to improve on her second place finish in the 2009 event. In addition to the Scottish contingent will be Jill Parker, Sophie Coleman and Jacqueline Slack who finished third, fourth and tenth respectively in the final ranking standings of the 2009 British Triathlon Super Series.

Parker, who combines her job in finance at a top city firm, is hoping to get off to a good start in the first race of the British Triathlon Super Series and improve on her overall third place finish of 2009:

“I can’t wait to get the Super Series underway, it has been a long winter of training in order to be ready for the five race series. I am hugely motivated to pick up on a successful 2009, and hopefully be in a position to challenge for the first or second place at the end of the series.

“I have always enjoyed competing in Strathclyde Country Park, although I would imagine this year with the inclusion of a more international field it will make the event all the more challenging.”

Heather Williams, Performance Director at British Triathlon Federation, thinks that the field will provide a competitive race:

“We have athletes coming from Ireland, Poland, Belgium and Australia as well as a strong British contingent, making Strathclyde a very tough race. The inclusion of the ITU Triathlon European Cup status has seen the number of international athlete grow and this is great for all concerned”.

Williams would encourage spectators to come down and see the race in action:

“With London 2012 and Glasgow 2014 on the horizon, this event and the wider Super Series will give spectators the unique opportunity to enjoy the fast moving, modern and dynamic sport of triathlon. We can guarantee a great day out and an exciting spectacle.”

Strong Elite Men’s Field Announced for GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon

2010-05-18T00:00:00

A strong elite men’s field has been announced for the 2010 GE Strathclyde Park ITU Triathlon European Cup, which will be held on the 23 May in Strathclyde Country Park. The event, which is the first of the five race British Triathlon Super Series, is also holding ITU Triathlon European Cup status for the first time in Scotland.

Due to the ITU status, competitors will be arriving from mainland Europe, Scandinavia, Canada, Australia and South Africa along with a sizeable representation from Great Britain. Within the 30 British names, six of the final top 10 from the 2009 British Triathlon Super Series will be participating, including Aaron Harris and Phil Wolfe who finished second and third respectively.

There will also be local interest in Scottish No.1 David McNamee, who will be looking to impress at his home race.

Harris, 22, who won the last race of the 2009 Super Series in Parc Bryn Bach, is looking forward to getting back on the course and is hoping to go one better in the overall end of Series ranking:

“I was pleased with my performance in 2009, however I would have loved to have won the overall Series ranking, especially with only 10 points between me and the leader.

“Hopefully if I can get off to a good start at the GE Strathclyde Park ITU Triathlon European Cup, I will be able to push on for the other events in the Super Series calendar. I expect Strathclyde will be a tough race with athletes from all over the world looking to excel in venue for the Commonwealth Games in 2014.”

Heather Williams, Performance Director at British Triathlon, is looking forward to the start of the Super Series and is delighted at the quality of the field:

“With the number of races that happen around the world, we are delighted to have attracted the level of field which we have. It is great to see so many of last year’s top 10 ranking athletes return to start the 2010 Super Series, alongside a strong showing of athletes from well respected triathlon countries across the globe.

“Having staged events here in previous years, we know Strathclyde Country Park will provide a good test for all the athletes taking part in the race, whilst it will give a number of them a good opportunity to compete on the 2014 Commonwealth venue.”

In addition to the British Triathlon Super Series and the ITU Triathlon European Cup, the event will see novice athletes competing for a number of Age Group specific titles and Scottish Sprint Triathlon Championships. The action gets underway on Sunday 23 May at 8.45am with Age Group races followed by the elite men’s races commencing at 2.45pm.

Channel 4 to show highlights of British Triathlon Super Series

2010-05-10T00:00:00

Broadcaster Channel 4 has confirmed it will screen a series of five highlights programmes around the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series. The 2010 Super Series will see competitors take part in the following races; GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon, The Blenheim Triathlon, Nokia Windsor Triathlon, The London Triathlon and GE Parc Bryn Bach Triathlon. There will also be a further programme from Edinburgh showing the GE 2010 Edinburgh ITU Duathlon World Championships.

The programmes which will be screened at various points from June through to October will be presented by two well known faces. Rob Walker will front the programmes from Strathclyde, Blenheim, London and the Duathlon from Edinburgh, whilst former GB 400 meter runner Iwan Thomas will present from Windsor and Bryn Bach.

Zara Hyde Peters, Chief Executive Officer of the British Triathlon Federation, is delighted that Channel 4 has agreed to broadcast highlights of the Super Series:

“To get the support of a major broadcaster like Channel 4 is fantastic for the sport of Triathlon. This is the second year running that Channel 4 have covered the British Triathlon Super Series, and their fourth year providing elite triathlon television coverage, highlighting the ever-increasing demand for triathlon as a modern and dynamic Olympic sport.

“This announcement tops off a great few weeks for the sport after the unveiling of GE as elite partner the British Triathlon Federation. We are now looking forward to the action getting started on the 23 May at the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon.”

The shows will follow the progress of all the competitors who will be vying for 2010 British Triathlon Super Series title.

Sagina Shabaya, Deputy Editor of Off Peak Programming at Channel 4 is excited about the forthcoming British Triathlon Super Series:

"As we build to London 2012 the interest in triathlon is only going to grow, so we are delighted to be able to show highlights of the elite competition in the UK. “

On the 23 May the GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon will be held on the 2014 Commonwealth Games venue, it will be the opening event of the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series as well as the fourth 2010 ITU Triathlon European Cup event and the Scottish Sprint Triathlon Championships.

SCOTTISH CHAMPIONSHIPS AT STRATHCLYDE PARK

2010-04-30T00:00:00

The Strathclyde Park Triathlon will now also feature the Scottish Sprint Triathlon National Age Group Championships. The event is a fantastic opportunity for amateur athletes racing in the mass participation element of the event to compete on the same world-class course as the elite athletes. Entry for the mass participation race will close on Wednesday 5 May and only a small number of places remain.

Howard Vine, Director for Age Group Portfolio at British Triathlon, said: “The opportunity to compete alongside elite athletes on such a fantastic stage is certainly one not to be missed. This is reflected in the rapid uptake of the mass participation places for the Strathclyde Park Triathlon in May, and highlights the ever-increasing demand for this dynamic and modern side of the sport.”

“We are thrilled to have had such a strong response and there are still places available, so we would encourage anyone wishing to get involved to register now to not miss out on what is sure to be a great day of competition.”

A recently announced notable addition to the mass participation is Yvonne Murray, gold medallist at the 1994 Commonwealth Games and bronze medal winner at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Yvonne will be coming out of retirement to compete in the Novice race (300m swim, 10km cycle and 2.5km run) as part of a relay team called Team Murray. Yvonne will be taking on the run section with two journalists doing the swim and cycle, names to be announced.

The Strathclyde Park Triathlon in the 2014 Commonwealth Games venue, is also the opening event of the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series as well as the fourth 2010 ITU Triathlon European Cup event of the year making it an action-pack Sunday 23 May.

PARC BRYN BACH TO COMPLETE 2010 BRITISH TRIATHLON SUPER SERIES

2010-03-30T00:00:00

Parc Bryn Bach has been announced as the concluding host venue for the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series, scheduled for Sunday 19 September 2010. It joins the previously announced events of Strathclyde Park Triathlon (23 May), Blenheim Triathlon (6 June), Nokia Windsor Triathlon (13 June) and London Triathlon (8 August).

Blaenau Gwent’s Parc Bryn Bach will play host to an action packed weekend of British Championships, featuring the final event of the British Triathlon Super Series, the British Triathlon Sprint Distance Elite Championships, and the Inter Regional Championships for Tri Star 2, Tri Star 3 and Youth categories. Parc Bryn Back will also host the finale of the 2010 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series.

Strathclyde Park, triathlon venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, will be hosting the opening leg of the Super Series and it will be back for a third consecutive year. Last year saw English Olympians Will Clarke and Jodie Swallow prevail in the male and female races and this year organisers expect to see an even stronger field as the event attains ITU Triathlon European Cup status.

The Series will then progress to Blenheim for the popular annual triathlon set in the grounds of Blenheim Palace. This is followed the subsequent weekend with the Nokia Windsor Triathlon, which will be in its 20^th year.

August will see the London Triathlon play host to the fourth event in the Series, where the Elite athletes will again be joined by up to 14,000 participants.

Zara Hyde Peters the Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon welcomed the announcement of the 2010 calendar:

“The 2009 British Triathlon Super Series was a huge success, providing testing competition for Britain’s emerging talent, racing alongside some of the best, in a sport where Britain is recognised as a world-leading performer. The combination of spectacular courses in the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series provides a fantastic showcase for the sport, raising awareness and encouraging participation in the fast-moving, modern and dynamic sport of triathlon.

“We are particularly pleased to bring the series finale to Parc Bryn Bach where Blaenau Gwent authority and the park have always made us so welcome. This venue has become synonymous with triathlon in Wales and the combination of rising talent in the Inter Regional Chmpionships and world beating stars racing for the British Elite title is going to make this a day of competition to remember.”

Non Stanford, Welsh triathlete and 2009 series silver medalist said:

“The British Triathlon Super Series provided an incredible stage for my first year in triathlon. I can’t wait to get back into it again this year – especially with the season finale taking place on my home turf of Wales.”

Alun Ffred Jones, Minister for Heritage for the Welsh Assembly Government, said:

"I'm delighted that Parc Bryn Bach will be staging a leg of the British Triathlon Super Series this year. It's great to have another top-class sporting event hosted in Wales and this is a tribute to our growing reputation in holding events. I'm sure this first class facility and its outstanding natural setting, combined with the commitment and experience of the delivery partners will ensure that this will be a successful event."

Jason Owen, Executive Member for Blaenau Gwent Council Leisure Services said:

“Blaenau Gwent are delighted to once again provide the final leg for this great sporting event. Year on year Parc Bryn Bach, which is situated on the doorstep of the Brecon Beacons, has been commended as an ideal host venue for the British Triathlon Super Series due to its challenging course and great mountain location.”

Yvonne Murray returns for 'veteran debut'

2010-03-25T00:00:00

FOR a decade, Yvonne Murray has observed athletics from outside the lines, nurturing the next generation as mentor to a group of young hopefuls in Lanarkshire.

"They make me feel old," laughed the Olympic 3000 metres bronze medallist of 1988. "One wee boy told me the other day that his daddy said I was famous because he'd watched me on TV when he was a boy."

To read the full article click here.

Yvonne Murray: out of retirement and running down a dream

2010-03-24T00:00:00

YVONNE MURRAY, the former World, European, and Commonwealth track champion, is coming out of retirement to contest a triathlon at Strathclyde Park on May 23.

The opening event of this year’s British Triathlon Super Series is being staged at the Motherwell venue which will also host the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth triathlon.

To read more click here.

DailyRecord.co.uk - Yvonne Murray Launches Strathclyde Park Triathlon

2010-03-24T00:00:00

SCOTS running legend Yvonne Murray will come out of retirement to compete in the biggest triathlon race to be held in Scotland this year.

The Commonwealth and European gold medallist has been recruited to complete the run leg in the gruelling Strathclyde Park Triathlon on May 23.

To read more click here.

Yvonne Murray Launches Strathclyde Park Triathlon

2010-03-24T00:00:00

Strathclyde Country Park, the triathlon venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, will be hosting the opening leg of the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series on Sunday 23 May, and to launch the event former British and Scottish endurance runner Yvonne Murray was joined by Elite Scottish triathlete Kerry Lang, and Scottish Triathlon Junior Squad athletes Gavin Alexander and Cliona Ferguson, for a triathlon master-class in Strathclyde Country Park today.

Murray, who won gold at the 1994 Commonwealth Games and Olympic bronze in the 1988 Seoul Games, will be coming out of retirement to participate in the Strathclyde Park Triathlon Novice race on the 23 May as part of a relay team which will be known as Team Murray. The remaining places will be taken by journalists.

“I am delighted to be here in Strathclyde Country Park today helping to launch the first leg of the British Triathlon Super Series. It is fantastic that all the athletes, whether Elite or Novice, will get the opportunity to compete at the triathlon venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

“I am personally looking forward to recruiting two budding journalists to compete as part of Team Murray. I have never been part of a triathlon team before, so am really looking forward to pulling on the running shoes again.”

Over 100 Elite athletes will complete in the British Triathlon Super Series event, which will also see the race hold ITU Triathlon European Cup status and signifies the first ever ITU Triathlon European Cup event to be held in Scotland. In addition to the Elite athletes, there will be hundreds of Age Group athletes competing in two distances; Novice - 300m swim, 10km cycle and 2.5km run and Sprint - 750m swim, 20km cycle and 5km run.

Glasgow based Lang, who put Murray through her paces in today’s master-class, is looking forward to the start of the 2010 British Triathlon Super Series:

“I always look forward to the start of the season, and I am delighted that the British Triathlon Super Series starts in Strathclyde Country Park, which is my home race. I have always enjoyed competing at the venue which will be used for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and any opportunity I get to race here is fantastic.

“This year’s field is likely to be bigger and better than ever, with the incorporation of the ITU European Cup, so I am looking forward to a very tough race. Between now and then I will be getting a domestic and an international race in, so I will be more than ready for the European Cup race in Strathclyde on 23 May.”

Zara Hyde Peters, Chief Executive of British Triathlon, and a track rival of Murray’s during the early nineties is delighted that she is supporting the event:

“Yvonne is one of the most celebrated British and Scottish athletes and we are really pleased she is taking the time to support today’s launch and then participating in the Novice race in May. I will be watching Team Murray with interest, not only who they recruit but also how they perform on the day. I have no doubt with Yvonne involved they will all enjoy the event and successfully achieve their triathlon challenge.”

Hyde Peters, who ran for England when Murray won her gold for Scotland in 1994 Commonwealth Games, continued:

“We are very proud to be bringing an ITU Triathlon European Cup event to Scotland for the first time. Strathclyde Park has demonstrated its suitability as a setting for world class triathlon events and North Lanarkshire and Event Scotland have made this a venue we keep going back to. This event will give our domestic athletes a great opportunity to take on a global field and gain valuable world ranking points”

The British Triathlon Super Series creates a world class environment for domestic and international competitors, providing a high profile shop window for Triathlon in the UK. The Series aims to raise awareness and encourage participation in the fast-moving, modern and dynamic sport of triathlon in the build up to London 2012.

Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer at EventScotland, the national events agency, said: “The mass participation element of the first leg of the British Triathlon Super Series at Strathclyde Park will showcase the venue’s sensational landscape and impressive facilities to a whole new audience of amateur triathlete.

“This is a rare opportunity for enthusiastic Novices to race alongside the world’s best athletes in their field at what will be the triathlon venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. This leg of the Super Series also has the added kudos of being an ITU Triathlon European Cup event, which will ensure the competition has a fantastic support and an impressive turnout of spectators.”

For your opportunity to participate in the Strathclyde Park Triathlon visit www.strathclydeparktriathlon.com and register in either the Novice or Sprint race.

Strathclyde Park to host ITU Triathlon European Cup Event

2009-12-22T00:00:00

It has been announced that Strathclyde Park in North Lanarkshire, triathlon venue for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, will be hosting the fifth race of the 2010 ITU Triathlon European Cup. The event will be held on the Sunday 23 May 2010 and signifies the first ever ITU Triathlon European Cup event to be held in Scotland.

In 2009 the Strathclyde Park Triathlon saw English Olympians Will Clarke and Jodie Swallow triumph in the male and female races but with an even stronger field expected for 2010 the competition is likely to be even tougher. Organisers have also confirmed that the May event will incorporate a mass participation element which means that amateur athletes can enter the race and compete on the same world-class course as the elite athletes.

Kerry Lang, Scottish triathlete, is looking forward to the home race:

“After finishing second in Strathclyde Park last year, I am definitely aiming for top spot in 2010. Being able to compete again in Strathclyde Park is only going to be beneficial for 2014 when the Commonwealth Games come to Scotland”.

Zara Hyde-Peters, Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon said “We are very proud to be bringing an ITU Triathlon European Cup event to Scotland for the first time. Strathclyde Park has demonstrated its suitability as a setting for world class triathlon events and North Lanarkshire and Event Scotland have made this a venue we keep going back to. This event will give our domestic athletes a great opportunity to take on a global field and gain world ranking points”

Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer at EventScotland, the national events agency, said: “Scotland has a fantastic reputation for hosting multi-discipline sporting events and 2010 will be an incredible year to further establish the nation as an unrivalled destination for Triathlon. EventScotland has supported the Strathclyde Park Elite Triathlon since 2007 and in that time the event has become an established part of the world triathlon events calendar.

The addition of hosting a stage of the prestigious ITU Triathlon European Cup in 2010 is a fantastic coup for Scotland and will ensure that the profile of the nation as a host destination for this exciting sport is raised through additional broadcast and global media coverage.

“2010 will be an exceptional year for multi-discipline sports in Scotland and the ITU Triathlon European Cup will take its place in the nation’s sporting calendar alongside the 2010 World Duathlon Championships in Edinburgh in September. Both events are will attract hundreds of elite triathletes and duathletes, amateur competitors and spectators to Scotland for what will be an outstanding year of competition.”

British Triathlon Super Series Summary

2009-09-05T00:00:00

Brentwood triathlete Jodie Swallow kicked off the British triathlon season with an impressive performance, winning the Strathclyde Park Elite Triathlon, the first race in the British Super Series.

The event at Strathclyde Country Park - set to be the venue for the triathlon at the Commonwealth Games in 2014 - doubled up as the British Championships for the standard distance triathlon.

Bright and breezy conditions prevailed as the race got underway, with Kerry Lang, who lives in Elderslie near Glasgow, making the most of the swim leg to exit in the leading group alongside Swallow.

A delighted Swallow said:

“It went really well for me today, yes it was a tough race really hard work but I enjoyed it and am in good shape and proved that today, in particular the run that went really well."

Lang, who combines a successful career as an ear, nose and throat specialist at the Southern General hospital in Glasgow with a demanding schedule as an elite triathlete, has competed at the Strathclyde Park venue twice before but this was her first podium finish.

The bronze medal went to Birmingham’s Jodie Stimpson. But there was disappointment for Scottish champion Catriona Morrison, from Broxburn in West Lothian. The 32-year-old reigning World Long Distance duathlon champion was forced to withdraw during the bike stage due to a stomach illness.

The men’s race was won by British Olympian Will Clarke. The 24-year-old cruised to victory to notch up his second British Championship win and third victory at Strathclyde Park.

He said:

“It was a fantastic first race of the season and it couldn’t have gone better. I love winning a race like that and it was a great confidence boost for the season ahead. I love the course here now – I’d come back every weekend to race if I could.”

Basingstoke’s Aaaron Harris took the silver with Sheffield’s Dann Brook taking the third place on the podium.

Mazda Blenheim Triathlon

The sun came out at Blenheim Palace to see Stuart Hayes win the 2009 Mazda Blenheim Triathlon Male Elite Sprint for the second consecutive year. Hayes produced a powerful performance finishing just ahead of second placed Jonathan Brownlee in a thrilling finale.

Hayes vindicated his pre-race favourite tag by posting an impressive time pipping Jonathan Brownlee, one of the UK’s rising triathlon stars to victory by 5 seconds and third placed, Aaron Harris by 10 seconds.

Jodie Stimpson’s fine form continued as she clinched victory in the Female Elite Sprint, with Non Stanford second and eighteen year old Sophie Coleman finishing in third. The wins from Hayes and Stimpson put them in a strong position in The Super Series with three races left to go this season.

Nokia Windsor Triathlon

Stuart Hayes wins this event from Adam Bowden and third place, Bryan Keane.

Jodie Stimpson takes gold from Jill Parker and then Wales’ Non Stanford.

Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon

Jodie Stimpson put in superb performance at the Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon finishing in first place and winning the British Triathlon Super Series. The event in South Wales doubled up as the British Sprint Championships.

Overcast and blustery conditions prevailed with Abbie Thorrington making a strong start in the swim leg to exit twenty seconds ahead of the main group alongside Stimpson. Thorrington headed off in the saddle in first place, and maintained that position until the second lap when she was caught by Stimpson.
Stimpson was understandably delighted with another first place finish:

“It feels really good to win the Series today – three wins in the Series is a great achievement I am really enjoying the sport this year.I loved it today, it was nice to mix it up with some hills on the course, it was much more fun than these flat races we normally race.”

The men’s race was won by Aaron Harris from Basingstoke. Harris was understandably delighted with his first place finish after a slow start according to the twenty-one year old:

“It wasn’t a great swim for me I wasn’t happy with it at all, I felt tired for some reason, but once I got on the bike I found some strength and pushed on from there.”

The silver medal went to Birmingham’s Philip Wolf with Bridgend favourite Marc Jenkins coming in third.

In the women’s race Birmingham’s Jodie Stimpson won the gold medal, with Holland’s Rachel Klamer and Eastbourne’s Sophie Coleman coming second and third respectively.

Mazda London Triathlon

Loughborough’s Stuart Hayes and Birmingham’s Jodie Stimpson put in strong performances at the Mazda London Triathlon to be crowned British Triathlon Super Series Champions.

Stimpson, 20, entered the race with the Championship already secured having won at the Mazda Blenheim Triathlon, Nokia Windsor Triathlon and the Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon and ended the Series finishing 8th in the final event of the British Triathlon Super Series on London Docklands.

Being the competitor she is she was slightly disappointed with her finishing time:

“It feels really good to win the Series – three wins in the five race Series is a great achievement but I was really looking for another podium finish so I am little disappointed but we have the [Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championship Series London] Hyde Park event in a few weeks which will be an amazing experience.”

Stuart Hayes arrived in London in fourth place in the Series with Aaron Harris topping the leaderboard but previous wins at the Nokia Windsor Triathlon and Mazda Blenheim Triathlon meant a superb third place finish was enough to see him crowned champion.

Will Clarke won the men’s race with Australia’s Courtney Atkinson taking the silver medal.

World Champion Helen Jenkins was victorious in the women’s race while the silver medal went to Liz Blatchford and Jodie Swallow took the bronze medal.

Super Series Final Standings

Position Name Points

1 Jodie Stimpson 300
2 Non Stanford 250
3 Jill Parker 240
4 Sophie Coleman 225
5 Rhian Roxburgh 187

1 Stuart Hayes 285
2 Aaron Harris 275
3 Philip Wolfe* 215
3 Adam Bowden* 215
5 Marc Jenkins 208

* Philip Wolfe placed above Adam Bowden due to higher individual race placing

Marc Jenkins is making up for lost time

2009-08-20T00:00:00

WORLD champion Helen Jenkins has become the face of Welsh triathlon, but husband Marc is aiming to grab a piece of the action himself.

Five years ago, Bridgend’s Marc was shaping to fly the Welsh flag in the sport.

He shot into the national consciousness when suffering a bike crash during the 2004 Olympic Games triathlon and running the last two kilometres of that section with the machine over his back.

Illness, injury and helping Helen achieve her incredible goals in recent years has seen Marc slip to the outside impression of a coach rather than an athlete.

But he has hit back, finishing fifth in the British Triathlon Super Series race in Windsor last month and, on Saturday, Jenkins, 33 tomorrow , rolled back the years to step onto the podium at Bryn Bach Park, Tredegar, for bronze.

He does insist his racing days are still alive and kicking. “I just need to get back into it and look forward to 2010 and Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

“Helen has been great in training. We just push each other and I never planned to stop racing. It was just the health and the injuries. I never knew if they would get better, but fortunately they have, so I’m just taking each race as it comes now and I’m quite happy with that.

“I don’t have any targets. I just have to do a few races in 2009 and give myself some experience and then take it from there. It is just getting back into it and take it day-by-day to then see how it goes.”

Saturday’s race that saw him climb out of the 750m swim of Bryn Bach Park lake in fourth spot and lay well-placed in the four-man bunch after the 20km bike ride as eventual winner Aaron Harris stole the advantage, would have been all the more satisfying if he had a chance for gold.

But he lost 15 seconds on transit from his bike to the run when his training shoe would not fit properly on his foot.

It turned out to be the difference between bronze and silver as, despite a dashing sprint up the field from fifth at that transition, Birmingham’s Philip Wolfe overtook Jenkins on the last lap to take runners-up spot by five seconds.

British Triathlon Series at Tredgar

2009-07-23T00:00:00

JODIE Stimpson put in a superb performance at Tredegar’s Parc Bryn Bach on Saturday as she clinched the British Triathlon Super Series in style.

Stimpson overtook Abbie Thorrington on the second lap of the cycle and never looked back as she completed the gruelling 750m swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run in first place.

There was disappointment for home fans as race favourite Helen Jenkins dropped out before the event got underway to concentrate on her preparations for the ITU World Championship Series in Hyde Park next month.

Stimpson, though, was delighted with her victory.

“It feels really good to win the series,” she said. ”Three wins is a great achievement and I am really enjoying the sport this year.

“The water was cold and Abbie got a huge lead from the start of the swim and I couldn’t catch up. “But on the bike I have great confidence and I worked really hard to close the gap and managed to catch her quite easily.

“On the main climb I was stronger and on the last part of the bike she was, so we built up a massive lead from the others. Then on the run I seemed to pull away and didn’t look back.”

Stimpson is already looking forward to the Mazda London Triathlon in two weeks’ time.

“My coach, Michelle Dillon, won in London two years ago so I am desperate to put on another good show and end this series on a high.”

The men’s race was won by Aaron Harris, from Basingstoke. Harris was understandably thrilled with his first place after a slow start.

“It wasn’t a great swim for me. I wasn’t happy with it at all,” said the 21-year-old. “I felt tired for some reason but once I got on the bike I found some strength and pushed on from there.

“I’m used to going at it hard at this distance but the big hill on the bike course hit me pretty hard.

“But from the second lap when I broke away I felt much more confident and I just started to feel strong again.

“I wanted someone to come with me as I don’t normally go out on my own but I had a 20 second gap and just took off from there.

“Next up is London in two weeks which I am very much looking forward to. I feel really confident after this win.”

The silver medal went to Birmingham’s Philip Wolfe with Bridgend favourite Marc Jenkins third.

In the women’s race, Holland’s Rachel Klamer and Eastbourne’s Sophie Coleman came second and third respectively.

Super Series Update

2009-06-11T00:00:00

Sunday June 14 sees the third of the five British Super Series events taking place in Windsor and the Super Series is already starting to look as competitive as ever.

With 2008 race champions Richard Stannard and Andrea Whitcombe not competing this weekend due to injury there are vital Super Series points up for grabs.

In the women’s race, Super Series leader Jodie Stimpson is firm favourite to win at Windsor having won so impressively last week at Blenheim and after coming third in the season opener at Strathclyde National Park last month. Stimpson leads the Super Series with 185 points.

Non Stanford will be a close challenger to Stimpson however, as the 20 year old Birmingham undergraduate came fifth in Strathclyde and an equally impressive second in Blenheim last weekend.

In the men’s race Super Series leader Aaron Harris is not competing this weekend so there is a chance for last week’s winner at Blenheim, Stuart Hayes, to overtake him on the leaderboard. Harris finished in second place in Strathclyde and third in Blenheim.

With Stannard absent in the men’s field, a closely contended race is anticipated between favourite, former Olympian Marc Jenkins, Ollie Freeman and Stuart Hayes.

Men’s Super Series leaderboard

1 Aaron Harris 175
2 Gavin Noble 150
3 Stuart Hayes 100
Will Clarke 100

Women’s Super Series leaderboard

1 Jodie Stimpson 185
2 Non Stanford 165
3 Carol Bridge 150

The male and female elite athletes with the most points from their selection of three races shall win the Super Series.

Athletes shall receive points as laid out below:

1st: 100 Points
2nd: 90 Points
3rd: 85 Points
4th: 80 Points
5th: 75 Points
6th: 70 Points
7th: 65 Points
8th: 60 Points
9th: 55 Points
10th: 50 Points
11th: 49 Points
12th: 48 Points
13th: 47 Points

Etc to: 59th Place: 1 Point

The British Triathlon Super Series is taking place at:

The Strathclyde Park Elite Triathlon May 17
The Mazda Blenheim Triathlon June 6 -7
The Nokia Windsor Triathlon June 14
The Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon July 18
The Mazda London Triathlon Aug 1-2

Newsline London Press Release

2009-06-04T00:00:00

Sunday August 2 sees the final British Triathlon Super Series event taking place in London with the contest for British Triathlon Super Series Champions coming to a close.

In the women’s Championship, British Triathlon Super Series leader Jodie Stimpson cannot be overtaken at the top of the leaderboard as she has secured maximum points from her three races entered; winning at the Mazda Blenheim Triathlon, the Nokia Windsor Triathlon and Parc Bryn Bach respectively. She will therefore be crowned Series Champion on Sunday afternoon and will be looking to improve on her 10th place finish in London last year.

Triathletes are required to compete in three of the five races to be eligible to win the overall British Triathlon Super Series with points awarded based on their finishing position. The male and female elite athletes with the most points from their selection of three races shall win the British Triathlon Super Series.

In the men’s race things are still tightly poised going into the final race. Aaron Harris’ impressive win in Bryn Bach two weeks ago has put him on top of the leaderboard and with Adam Bowden not competing Philip Wolfe is his only realistic challenger. Wolfe will have to finish high up the leaderboard and improve on his 2008 position of 50th and hope that Harris fails to pick up points if he is to overtake the Basingstoke athlete.

World Champion Helen Jenkins will be competing as will her husband and coach Marc as the countdown to the Dextro Energy Triathlon – ITU World Championship Series in Hyde Park next month starts.

Later year’s race winners Julie Dibens and Maik Petzold are not competing.

Men’s British Triathlon Super Series leaderboard

1 Aaron Harris 275
2 Philip Wolf 215
3 Adam Bowden 215

Women’s British Triathlon Super Series leaderboard

1 Jodie Stimpson 300
2 Non Stanford 250
3 Jill Parker 240

The Mazda London Triathlon is the final event in the British Triathlon Super Series.

The British Triathlon Super Series events took place this summer at:

The Strathclyde Park Elite Triathlon May 17
The Mazda Blenheim Triathlon June 6 -7
The Nokia Windsor Triathlon June 14
The Parc Bryn Bach Elite Triathlon July 18
The Mazda London Triathlon Aug 2

Braveheart Heros

2009-05-22T00:00:00

KILBARCHAN Harriers Claire Gibson and Conor McNulty were star performers in the Scottish team competing at the Loughborough International Games.

Both athletes posted wins in their respective races and they each broke their own Kilbarchan club records in the process.

Claire, who last week won the Scottish Inter-Regional 1500 metres title in a club record of 4mins 17.53secs, has her sights set on winning selection for the 800 metres at the Commonwealth Games next year.

And she took a big step in that direction with her winning time of 2mins 2.95secs, barely a second outside the qualifying time.

Conor, who likewise won a Scottish Inter-Regional title last week, proceeded to smash his own record yet again, his time of 9mins 5.75secs in the 3000m steeplechase being an improvement of over 11 seconds on his previous best.

Closer to home, at the second meeting of the Scottish Young Athletes League at Wishaw, the Kilbarchan club finished in a disappointing fifth place but there were nevertheless some fine performances.

Winners included Hazel Ross for the under 17 womens 80m Hurdles in 11.85secs, as well as Andrew McLaughlan and Andrew Cunningham in the under 17s Shot (14.96m) and Discus (33.19m) respectively.

And the other winners included Graham Evans in the under 17 mens 3K Steeplechase, timed at 4mins 43.58secs and Adrian Menzez- McVeigh in the under 15 boys 400m, his time being 54.29secs.

At the British Masters Pentathlon Championships at Oxford in wild and wet conditions, Lindsay Scott won gold in the over 70s age group, scoring 2,989 points.

Elsewhere, at the British Triathlon Championships at Strathclyde Park, Kerry Lang, who does her road running sessions with Kilbarchan Athletic Club, got her season off to a great start with a superb second place.

In other news, Buddies are being urged to get their running shoes on later in the year.

For the 2009 Great Scottish Run supported by Lloyds TSB and Bank of Scotland, takes place on Sunday September 6.

Scotland’s greatest race returns with Half Marathon and 10k race distances to suit all levels and abilities and gets underway at George Square and finishes at Glasgow Green.