On Sunday 15th November SASP ran the second GoTri of the Somerset Series at Quantock Lodge near Bridgwater. It was another great fun and friendly event.
16 newbie triathletes (a couple of experienced ones among them) braved the remains of storm Abigail to Swim and run like the wind!
GoTri has been set up by Triathlon England to enable people to compete in an achievable, short distance triathlon in a relaxed environment without the pressures of competing against hardened triathletes. Triathlon is becoming more and more popular and this is a great way for people to get involved. Not only was the venue unique, on the edge of the beautiful Quantock Hills, but this event was also unique by offering training and tips for participants before the competition started as well as being suitable for adults and children alike. If you are a Parent, what better way to get the whole family outdoor and active than to race together?
The event started with a fun triathlon related quiz before competitors fitted elastic laces into their trainers and practiced putting them on at record breaking speed. Following this they were ready to race. The competition started with 11+ years and adults completing the blue route; a 280m swim in an indoor heated pool before donning their jackets at super quick speed to head out on the 1600m cross-country run. They were being chased down by the nine and ten year olds who did the red route, an 80m swim and 800m run. Spirits were high as every single competitor crossed the finish line, achieving a massive personal goal. One competitor commented “It was great to be able to participate in the same race as my 10 year old daughter instead of just spectating”, Toby Fielder.
Despite the chilly temperatures, after seeing the results Isaac, 10 said “Next time I’m not going to waste any time by putting on my jacket after the swim”. Although this is not advisable in November, it is clear that competitors are feeling motivated to better their time in the next event!
Exmoor Triathlon Club are putting on specific Adult GoTri swimming sessions every Tuesday evening between 19.00 – 20.00 at Quantock Lodge Pool to help you get some practice in before the next GoTri events in March 2016. Why not try the Duathlon (run-bike-run) on 6th March and/or a full triathlon (swim, bike, run) on the 27th March 2016. You can enter on the SASP website by searching for GoTri Somerset #3 or GoTri Somerset #4 under events www.sasp.co.uk/events. Both events are off road and therefore suitable for children and adults. Check out Exmoor Triathlon Club on Facebook to see what else they have on offer to suit your ability or email enquiries@sasp.co.uk to find out about other ways you can get involved in this all-round great sport.
Competitors walking the course
