North East Set for Triathlon Feast

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Over 425 top triathletes from around the country will be descending on Druridge Bay Country Park in Northumberland this Sunday, June 21, for the British Triathlon National Standard Distance Triathlon Championships.

This prestigious event is a major scoop for the county and demonstrates once again the excellent reputation the region is gaining for hosting major sporting events.

This weekend, competitors will undertake a 1500m swim in the Ladyburn Lake in the park, before embarking on a 7 lap, 40km cycle ride and finishing with a 10km run on paths around the lake. Druidge Bay park boasts three miles of heritage coastline, a large lake, woodland and tracks, café facilities and ample parking. Yet, it is only 25 miles from Newcastle and is readily accessible for those travelling from outside the area.

The championship event is being run by One Life - the largest triathlon club in the North East, in conjunction with the British Triathlon Federation, Culture Creative and Northumberland Sport - a multi-agency partnership which aims to get local people of all ages involved in sport and physical activity.

Race Organiser, Paul Jones has been working with his team to make the final preparations for this weekend’s race but has had one eye on the local weather forecast:

“We had to cancel our triathlon last September due to the severe flooding in the region which was a major disappointment for us after months of planning – fingers crossed this year  the weather will be  back on our side.�

“We are looking forward to a day of action in what should be a very exciting race with entrants of all ages and abilities competing.  We are also very fortunate to have the use of Druridge Bay County Park which will provide the perfect backdrop and a fantastic venue for the championships. “ he added.

Georgie Rutherford, Regional Programme Manager for Triathlon England is also extremely excited about this Sunday’s championship event as believes it is a great opportunity to showcase the brilliant triathlon events the area delivers. “We are thrilled so many triathletes are travelling from around the country to compete at Druridge Bay. Not many people are aware of the high quality of events on offer in the North East so this is a great opportunity to showcase what the local triathlon clubs can deliver. The team organising this event has worked extremely hard for a number of years in preparation for the championships and there will be a lot of support from regional volunteers on Sunday who can’t wait to assist and be a part of the British Triathlon National Championships. “

Former Olympic gold medallist and television sports commentator, Steve Cram is a resident Northumbrian and is the chairman for  Northumberland Sport.  He said:

“ Northumberland is an absolutely stunning county which encompasses heritage coastline and  dramatic National Park land.  It is  vast, and predominantly rural, but it is a hotspot of sporting activity and talent and we feel, justifiably proud of our sporting achievements and reputation.�

We are very much looking forward to  showcasing Northumberland, our  facilities  and our legendry north east hospitality to our sporting guests.�