This weekend’s Columbia Threadneedle World Triathlon Leeds has been a fantastic showcase for our sport.

Over the weekend of events over 6,000 participants have taken part in a triathlon event in the city of Leeds. On Saturday more than 200 people took part in our GO TRI waves with many taking part in their first triathlon ever. We also provided a world-class backdrop to the Triathlon England – National Aquathlon Championships and the tri star, youth and junior races.

Today over 5,000 triathletes were able to take part in a unique event that offered a course that took participants on closed roads through the very heart of Leeds City Centre. From the first wave, the support for everyone taking part was incredible and created what I hope was an unforgettable atmosphere as athletes raced through a route lined with spectators.

Our ambition was to make this a really amazing event but it’s clear we have disappointed some people.  I want to apologise to Sunday’s competitors who we let down through the mismanagement of the bag returns and I would like to thank everyone for their patience in collecting their bags at both the city centre and Roundhay Park.

An event of this scale did not come without its challenges, speaking after his race, Alistair Brownlee commented: “that’s by far the best World Series crowd there’s ever been. I know split transitions are a tricky thing to get right, but my god it’s worth it.”

I think it is worth it. The athlete survey is being shared next week and I want you to tell us what you think, this will help us create the best experience we can at this event in the future. I want to finish by thanking all the competitors and their friends and family for creating an amazing atmosphere here in Leeds today.

Jack Buckner

CEO, British Triathlon