Tri Liverpool welcomed over 1,000 age-groupers today (Sunday 10 August), as athletes competed for British titles, GB qualification spots or simply completed their first triathlon in the heart of Liverpool Docks.
Tri Liverpool, host the of the British Triathlon Championships was organised by Lagadere Unlimited Events and British Triathlon in partnership with Liverpool City Council and saw competitors compete from 7am right through the day. The event attracted athletes from all over the UK, showcasing Tri Liverpool as one of the highlights of the domestic triathlon calendar.
However, the event wouldn’t be the same without the vocal crowd support for the local Liverpudlians competing in all of today’s races, especially those from local triathlon club, Mersey Tri, who have one of the loudest fan clubs around.
Local Mersey Tri athlete, James Muscart (20-24) who competed in the standard distance races had a great time commenting: “It was tough with the wind and rain but there was great support and a great atmosphere, I really enjoyed it. On the bike, a couple of the corners felt like you came to a standstill and I felt a bit sorry for spectators standing in the cold, however they kept cheering and were great supporters of all the athletes.
“It’s fantastic to have an event on our doorstep, and credit goes to the whole community. You don't know everyone’s name but you get support from everyone out there – it’s got to be great for the local community as well.”
Simon Needle who competed last year, travelled up from London for Tri Liverpool, competing in the 30-34 standard distance race. Simon commented: “I did this event last year and it was a beautiful sunny day, but today with the rain and the wind, it was a tough old course."
When asked why he came back to Tri Liverpool in 2014: “It was my first year last year and I just got stuck in, it seemed like a good event. With the paratriathlon and elite races, it’s a good one to come and spectate and so it’s a shame with the weather this year. There are some hardy supporters out there though and there was really good support at the end.”
Rachel Hallam (30-34) who was competing in the standard distance races and finishing first overall added: “It’s a great venue, I raced here last year. Its well organised and it’s a great event. I will be back here again next year.”
The event was also a qualifer for the Great Britain Age-Group Team for the 2015 ETU Triathlon European Championships.
