'Duracell Bunny' gets custom blueseventy wetsuit...
While she is currently away training on the other side of the world in Australia, twice Ironman UK champion Lucy Gossage will have a new present waiting for her when she arrives back home.
Known in triathlon circles as the 'Duracell Bunny', a reference to her seemingly boundless energy which never seems to fade, (much like the famous adverts for the battery brand), her wetsuit sponsor blueseventy have added a nice custom touch to her wetsuit for the new season.
Lucy's new (custom) suit
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Jan Frodeno aims for world record at Roth
World Champion confirms Challenge Roth 2016 start
After his recent dominant victory at Ironman 70.3 Dubai, reigning Ironman / Ironman 70.3 World Champion and 2008 Olympic champion, Jan Frodeno, said that onw of his goals was to try for the fastest iron-distance time. Currently held by Andreas Raelert (7:41:33, Challenge Roth 2011), Frodeno is not going to wait long to attempt that - with this morning's news that he will be racing DATEV Challenge Roth on 17th July.
Jan Frodeno confirms his start at Challenge Roth with the world record his goal
Jan Frodeno has achieved almost everything in his unprecedented triathlon career. He won gold at the Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008, is the current Ironman Hawaii champion, "Sportsman of the Year" and Bambi award-winner. There are many more outstanding successes in the 34-year-old's career but two milestones are still missing – victory at the world's largest long distance triathlon and the world record. On 17 July 2016 he will attempt to achieve both goals when he lines up at DATEV CHALLENGEROTH.
Related Article -Men's Sub-8 Iron-Distance Club All-Time History
"The event in Roth is a European triathlon legend, racing at CHALLENGEROTH is a highlight in every athlete's career. I'm so excited that I can finally take my place on the Roth start line," said the current world number one. Another important reason behind Frodeno's decision to race Roth is the event's unique atmosphere. "All athletes who compete at Roth are blown away by the unique atmosphere in the triathlon-mad region of Roth and the perfect race organisation. I want to experience that for myself and I am already hugely looking forward to enjoying the famous ‘Challenge spirit'."
With his debut in Roth the German world-class athlete, who grew up in South Africa, wants to achieve another big goal: he wants the world record. The current world record was set by Andreas Raelert in 2011 at CHALLENGEROTH in 7:41:33. Frodeno said, "It's well known that the course in Roth is very fast. I'll do everything to ensure my dream of the world record becomes a reality."
Related Article - The fastest bikers in Ironman
Frodeno's commitment to DATEV CHALLENGEROTH was welcomed by organiser, Felix Walchshöfer.
"We had already told our fans that our 15th anniversary would be full of surprises. The greatest of these is that Frodo starts with us," he said. "I am absolutely thrilled. For us it is a huge joy and also an honour to have the world's best triathletes race with us. The eyes of the triathlon world will be on DATEV CHALLENGEROTH in 2016 and perhaps we will see triathlon history written once again."
The professional field at the 15th CHALLENGEROTH will include a number of other high-profile athletes in both the men's and women's field. Full details will be announced in mid-April.
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Space to Earth challenge at Triathlon Show: London
Triathlon Trust are holding Tim Peake's 'Space to Earth' challenge at the Triathlon Show: London
This weekend, 12th-14th February, the Triathlon Trust (www.triathlontrust.org), the official charity of British Triathlon, will be giving young people and families a chance to complete an 'out of this world' challenge at the Triathlon Show: London in the ExCeL arena.
In a partnership with the UK and European Space Agency the Trust are holding a Space to Earth challenge that has been set by none other than Tim Peake himself.
Related Article - Triathlon Show: London - 5 reasons to visit (and save 10%)
While he is in space, Tim has to exercise for two hours a day to maintain his fitness levels and combat the effect of living in a weightless environment, so he wants the young people of Britain to exercise along with him.
To do this, he has set the challenge of covering the 400km distance from Earth to the Space Station's orbit... and over the weekend of the show, the attendees are being invited to take on that challenge by riding on Dawes Academy bikes set up on Cycleops Turbo trainers, and 'space jumping' to experience that 'off the bike' feeling. The total distance covered over the weekend will be recorded and the team will be reporting back to Tim over the weekend with the progress made.
Every participant will get a Tim Peake certificate with their personal distance contributed to the total and also an opportunity for a selfie with an ultrarealistic Tim Peake standee in the 'space studio'... and yes, if they behave, mums and dads can grab a selfie too!
Tim has recorded this latest message from the space station to set the challenge.
For more information about the Space to Earth challenge visit: www.spacetoearthchallenge.org.uk
For more information about the Triathlon Trust visit: www.triathlontrust.org
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Take our IRONMAN quiz challenge
How much do you know about IRONMAN? Give our quiz a try!
Think you know a bit about IRONMAN and in particular the UK events? For a bit of fun, we've pulled together an interative quiz for you to have a go at. It won't take long (and is multiple choice!), give it a try and then share your results (or perhaps not, if you are not quite as clever as you think...)
www.quiz.tri247.com
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Dawlish Aquathlon report 2016
The first round of the 2016 Exeter Triathlon Club Aquathlon Series took place on Sunday 7th February at the Dawlish Aquathlon. Here's a report from the early season race coutesy of Louise Raymond.
Results: FULL | NOVICE
Exeter Uni student scoops gold in first aquathlon of series
The first event in this year's Exeter Triathlon Club Aquathlon Series saw Exeter University student Ollie Thorogood take gold in the Sprint category, while youth Eleanor Brandon won the Novice race, a clear three minutes ahead of her rivals.
Despite severe weather warnings, the Dawlish aquathlon took place on Sunday (7th Feb) in a weather window of bright sunshine, which was much appreciated by the course marshals and competitors alike.
The Novice event, a 300m pool swim followed by a 2.5k run, attracted 11 athletes, all of whom completed the event. Eleanor Brandon won the event after a fast swim of 4 minutes 22 seconds, and a quick run gave her an overall time of 18:59. Second was Kevin Francis, with a completion time of 22 minutes 10 seconds, followed close behind by David Hwang in 22 minutes 14 seconds.
Exeter University student Ollie Thorogood finished first in the sprint category - a 600m pool swim and a 5km run - with an overall time of 26 minutes 26 secs, followed by Josh Boon in 26.40. Third was Donald Brooks in 27.09.
In the ladies category, Rebecca Carter took gold in a time of 31 minutes 15 seconds, with Exeter Tri Club member Laura Wakeham second in 31:49 and Bethany Joslin third in 32:46
Race organiser John Comber said: “We're really pleased with the feedback we've had from competitors in this event, and many liked the introduction of continuous rolling starts, which minimised the amount of waiting around, although some people missed the competitive element that wave starts bring.
“Congratulations to Eleanor, Ollie and Rebecca, and to the runners up, all of whom put in excellent performances in challenging conditions.
“I'd also like to pay tribute to the band of volunteers who turned out, and especially the outdoor marshals who did a great job in quite cold and windy conditions.
“The marshal welfare marshals were well received and did a sterling job of keeping the marshals on the run course supplied with hot drinks and some delicious home made tiffin.”
Sprint winner Ollie Thorogood said: “It was a great event and I really enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to Sidmouth!”
The next event in the aquathlon series is on 13 March, at Sidmouth Leisure Centre. Details can be found at http://exetertri.co.uk/events2016/aquathlon-series-2016.
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Jet Set Super Vet does St. Lucia...
Our columnist Stuart Lumb is known as 'Jet Set Super Vet' (JSSV), and he's living up to that with his latest update. Cashing in plenty of air miles, Stuart headed off to the paradise of St. Lucia to take part in the Tri St Lucia (www.tristlucia.com) event, organised by John Lunt. As his opening line says, there are wore places to be in November!
SAINT LUCIA – there could be worse places to be in November...
I have never raced in the Caribbean before, but given I had quite a few air miles racked up, I figured it was a good way to use them up. It would also give me an excuse to wear my brand new GB trisuit (and give exposure to my generous sponsors; Du Pont – formerly Danisco, Cranswick (I love their numerous delicious pork products), and Yorkshire veterinary group, Vetsonic).
The race in St Lucia (www.tristlucia.com) takes place at the sumptuous Landings Beach Resort, which is at the north end of the island and two hour's drive from the main Hewanorra airport. My journey out was quite eventful as I flew from Gatwick and the day before my flight the airport was evacuated, causing severe disruption, as a handgun was found in a waste bin. It's possible to book luggage in the evening before which was a boon given I was shipping my bike out in my much travelled, much repaired, SciCon bike box. Fortunately my direct flight left bang on time on the Sunday morning.
John Lunt, formerly of Human Race fame and now CEO of BspokeEvents.co.uk puts on three events in St Lucia; the Dagger, the Pistol and the Cutlass in conjunction with the St Lucia Triathlon organisation. The events can be entered individually or as part of a relay team.
I had originally entered the Cutlass which was pretty well Olympic distance, but given my poor running and the humidity I went for the shorter (5km) run Pistol option. The bike split - biking is on the left, as here - for the Cutlass was only 13.2km. That might seem short but there are some pretty steep gradients on the course plus the temperature is around 30°c most days. John puts on a pre-race sports programme, part of which takes the form of workouts with former Olympic Decathlon champion, Daley Thompson. Being on the beach under the swaying palm trees did make it a bit less arduous though. I didn't participate in those, but I did take part in the aquathon – my first ever. In addition, John organises several varied social events, one of which was a day long trip by boat to visit the Pitons, a famous St Lucia landmark, which comprises of two volcanic plugs which soar over 700m above sea level.
Race day dawned and I biked up to the Landings, a matter of a 10 minute ride from my hotel. No worries about getting cold while waiting in transition, but of course a non-wetsuit swim which for JSSV with my above average calves, (new nickname “Lead Legs Lumb”), was a big disadvantage, although the salt water does give some buoyancy. I was delighted not to exit the water last and then hopped on my bike. Because I was using my bike for transport as well as racing I opted to take my much loved 12 year old Trusty Giant TCR to St Lucia, rather than my relatively new Planet X N2A. My Giant is a great bike, with French made Mavic Ksyriums which are still as good as new. Downside is that rear cassettes in 2003 only had 9 cogs (vs. 11 on my new bike), so climbing was quite tough compared to the guys on bikes with bigger gears. (Just had a eureka moment, I must see if a bigger cassette would fit. Starting to get the hang of bike mechanics, it's only taken me 14 years!).
The bike split was pretty lumpy, two laps and some gorgeous ocean views which I quickly glimpsed where possible and then it was on to the run. This was two by 2.5km laps, and it was nice that I was neck-and-neck with fellow GB Age Grouper David Crawford, who hails from Surrey (known to us from God's Country as "t'Deep South"). It's very unusual that I have someone to run with and it made a nice change, especially as I just managed to beat David by a few metres!
As we finished the heavens opened, drenching all my kit, so it's worth packing a large bin liner for water proofing purposes. Crazy as it might seem, I had to have a hot shower when I got back to my hotel to warm up, as the air temperature had dropped by around 10°c. John had the times and splits practically as we crossed the finish line which was most impressive. The entrants varied widely in terms of ability and kit, ranging from pointy helmets and Cervelo's to competitors making sterling efforts on MTBs. There were entrants from a vast array of different countries with many locals competing. John also puts on with the St Lucia Tri Association events for the youngsters, including a special needs event, which is highly commendable and it was great to see the kids having their first taste of our wonderful sport of triathlon. Who knows, in a few year's time we might well see them gracing the Olympic stage.
Writing this article somewhat belatedly in mid winter it's great to dream of cycling in just shorts and a top as opposed to wearing six layers and clad from head to toe. I get out for a three hour ride with a mate once a week and it never fails to amaze me to see all the “kamikaze riders” out swathed in black from head to toe. Have they a death wish or something? Why is it that a famous British pro team insists on wearing predominantly black kit? It might be cool - hot surely, given my basic knowledge of physics - but our fashion mad cycling fraternity, keen to emulate their heroes should think through the implications of wearing dark replica gear on a dark winter's day when it comes to their personal safety. I wear a Team Lotto Soudal top, not that I have any Belgian connections, but simply because their kit is predominantly pillar box red, along with yellow overshoes, as I value my life...
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Weekend preview: February 13-14
The second weekend of February and I'm reminded of one of Chuck Jones's classic Warner Brother's cartoons: What's Brewin, Bruin?. Papa Bear's repeated attempts to get a decent hibernation having been wrecked by a series of domestic calamaties see him having a final breakdown with the happy sounds of Spring melting the snow, the birds nesting and nature generally starting to get on with it. Seriously sleep-deprived, Papa Bear sticks his head out of the window and yells "QUIET!" and everything reverts back to a Winter slumber again. And why am I reminded of this? Take a look at the calendar and you'll see why!
There may seem to be a few events on this weekend but six of them are the same race, the ITU's Winter Triathlon World Championships in Zeitweg (Austria). In which we have remarkably little GB participation. Or, perhaps that should be 'unremarkably' because Winter Triathlon is something of an oxymoron and has never really taken off outside those European countries that actually get a seasonal delivery of the white stuff.
Back to the UK and the three remaining races are actually two as the early edition of Tri Ferris's Cirencester Off Road Duathlon always features two distances. The only other event that we have down for the weekend is the second of the Tewkesbury Aquathlon Series.
With a light schedule in terms of racing, that gives plenty of opportunity to pay a visit to the Triathlon Show: London (www.triathlonshowlondon.com) at the ExCeL centre. There is plenty going (especially as the event is co-located with The London Bike Show) - check out the schedule HERE for the Triathlon Experts Theatre element of the show, which our Editor will be acting as host for. There are even activities for the kids, courtesy of the Triathlon Trust. Drop by and say hello!
Related Article - Triathlon Show: London - 5 reasons to visit (and save 10%)
Still, Sunday is Valentine's Day so it's arguably one of the three potential weekends of the year where you have a decent excuse not to be out training or racing!
FULL WEEKEND RACE LISTINGS
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Triathlon Show: London - Saturday schedule
What's on at ExCeL London today, Saturday 13th February?
Today, Saturday, is the third day of the four day Triathlon Show: London (www.triathlonshowlondon.co.uk) based at the ExCeL centre.
The show is open from 9am to 6pm today, and there are eight sessions (all included within your ticket price) at the Triathlon Experts Theatre within the main show area. The full schedule is provided below.
Related Article - Triathlon Show: London - 5 reasons to visit (and save 10%)
Well known triathlete and all-round multisport legend Hywel Davies (third just a couple of weeks ago at ISRAMAN), is here today (13:30 - 14:30), talking on the subject of 'getting a breakthrough in running performance'. Still setting personal best times into his 40's, Hywel knows what he's talking about.
Also joining us today (11:30 - 12:30) on the subject of 'a rookie's guide to women's triathlon' is Lucy Fry (www.lucyfry.co.uk). Lucy is the author of 'Run, Ride, Sink of Swim', a book covering a year in the exhilarating and addictive world of women's triathlon.
Running coach Nina Anderson ( www.ninaanderson.com) is back again today, talking on injury management in relation to perfomance, while adventure athlete and jounalist Tobias Mews (www.tobiasmews.com) will highlight '50 races to run before you die'!
Lots more besides, here's the full schedule for today.
TRIATHLON EXPERTS THEATRE AT TRIATHLON SHOW: LONDON 2016
Saturday 13 February (Show open 9am to 6pm)
09:30 - 10:30 Raph Deinhart - Nutrition and Triathlon, where do I start?
10:30 - 11:30 Nina Anderson - Running and managing your injury
11:30 - 12:30 Lucy Fry - A Rookie's guide to women's triathlon
12:30 - 13:30 Mark Kleanthous - Overcome the physical & mental elements of open water swimming
13:30 - 14:30 Hywel Davies - Getting a breakthrough in running performance
14:30 - 15:30 Mr Martin Klinke - Foot pain in endurance athletes, what can be done about it
15:30 - 16:30 Tobias Mews - 50 races to run before you die
16:30 - 17:30 Dan Bullock - Breathing technique for open water
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Triathlon Show: London - Sunday schedule
What's on at ExCeL London today, Sunday 14th February?
Valentine's Day represents the final day of the Triathlon Show: London 2016 (www.triathlonshowlondon.co.uk) based at the ExCeL centre.
The show is open from 9am to 6pm today, and there are six sessions (all included within your ticket price) at the Triathlon Experts Theatre within the main show area. The full schedule is provided below.
Related Article - Triathlon Show: London - 5 reasons to visit (and save 10%)
If you are confused by the concept of training with power on the bike, come and listen to Bob Tobin (www.cyclepowermeters.com) at midday. Coach to mutliple British Time Trial Champion Matt Bottrill, Bob's knowledge of using powermeters is exceptional.
If you've ever considered doing an adventure race but weren't sure where to start, Tri-Adventure (14:00 - 15:00) will help you make a start into this exciting sport (www.triadventure.co.uk).
Lots more besides, here's the full schedule for today.
TRIATHLON EXPERTS THEATRE AT TRIATHLON SHOW: LONDON 2016
Sunday 14 February (Show open 9am to 6pm)
10:00 - 11:00 Nina Anderson - Running and managing your injuries
11:00 - 12:00 Dan Bullock - Breathing technique for open water
12:00 - 13:00 Bob Tobin - Training with power - Evolution of training technology
13:00 - 14:00 Amy Kilpin - Dream, Challenge, Explore - What it takes to be the best I can be
14:00 - 15:00 Tri Adventure - Adventure racing - what's it all about? A challenging family adventure
15:00 - 16:00 James Worley - Nutrition and Triathlon, where do I start?
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ERDINGER Alkoholfrei's new team member...
Their brand (and product...) has become a regular and welcome site at many UK triathlon events aver the last few seasons, as well as supporting Age-Group and Professional athletes through their sponsored team.
Now, ERDINGER Alkoholfrei (www.erdinger-alkoholfrei.co.uk) announce a new addition to their 'team' for 2016...
ERDINGER Alkoholfrei - New Team Member
ERDINGER Alkoholfrei, the refreshing, isotonic sports drink, is kicking off their 2016 campaign with a new member of the team.
The brand-new addition is the perfect answer to every athlete's demands: convenient, portable but still with the same great taste. ERDINGER Alkoholfrei, the isotonic drink that allows you to recover and refuel, is now available for the first time in the UK in 500ml cans!
You can see, and taste, for yourself at the Triathlon Show: London from 11th-14th February 2016 (Stand LT450). Can't wait that long? Then go straight to www.procycling.net, who will deliver direct to your door – Perfect!
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Team Freespeed 2016 confirmed
It's one of the most competitive 'events' of the year... applications to join the Team Freespeed Skechers Performance (www.teamfreespeed.com) team! For several season now, the annual application process has attracted many of the very best names in British Age-Group triathlon, seeking to join a team which has earned seven Kona podiums over the last four seasons.
Applications for 2016 were tough once again, "We could have filled the team many times over with exceptional talent" says team manager Richard Melik, but the tough decisions have been made, and here is the new team line up for 2016...
Team Freespeed Skechers Performance 2016
We are delighted to announce that we will be adding three new athletes to our team for the 2016 season. Welcome to the team, Tom Higgins, Alex Bradley and Sarah Lewis.
We would like to thank the many applicants who took the trouble to apply. We could have filled the team many times over with exceptional talent but in the end we feel we have made the perfect choice, both for the team and our sponsors.
Tom Higgins, 30, a Chartered Surveyor, is the reigning British 30-34 Sprint distance champion and a former member of the Thames Turbo race team.
He has excelled over the past three years at Sprint and Olympic distance events, racing both at age group and elite level and in 2016 is planning a move to non drafting 70.3 races and longer to make best use of his strong bike and run.
Alex Bradley, 21, is in his final year of studying Maths at Oxford University. With no particular background in sport and only two years of triathlon training under his belt, Alex raced at Ironman Barcelona 2015 and finished in 8.57 including a strong 4.40 bike leg.
He finished second in his age group and with only one slot failed to qualify for Kona but he will be looking for an early qualification this year and has set his sights on a podium finish in Kona.
Sarah Lewis, 35, a Commercial Finance Manager, is another athlete planning to focus on the 70.3 circuit this year after some fine wins at Sprint and Olympic distances.
Sarah was first age grouper and sixth overall at the inaugural Turkey 70.3 last year and with qualification for Mooloolaba already secured she will race a mix of distances including Mallorca 70.3 with a view to peaking at the World Championships in September.
Those with good memories will recall that Sarah has actually raced for Team Freespeed before as a guest athlete in a mixed team at the Nottingham Relays in 2011.
This year will be very much a new look Team Freespeed consisting of a performance squad, the founding athletes and an executive coach.
The Team Freespeed Skechers Performance squad for 2016 will be Charlie Pennington, Alison Rowatt, Andy Greenleaf, Tom Higgins, Alex Bradley and Sarah Lewis.
Our four founding athletes Stuart Anderson, Declan Doyle, Tim Bishop and Jenny Gowans were at the very top of amateur long distance racing when the team launched in 2010 and have remained perfect ambassadors for our sponsors over the following six seasons.
Whilst continuing to race competitively this season they will turn their attention to shaping the future direction of the team as part of a founders committee, alongside team manager Richard Melik.
In addition, Richard Hobson will remain a key part of the set up as Executive Coach.
Confirmed sponsors for 2016 include Skechers Performance, Virgin Active, Clif Bar, BlueSeventy, Precision Hydration, Speedfil, Lezyne and Endurance Conspiracy.
Leaving the team this year are Jamie Hinton, Alain Friedrich and Dionne Allen. Everyone here at Team Freespeed wishes them the very best in the years ahead, we are certain we will be seeing them on top of podiums around the world.
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The BIG Cotswold Swim: 2nd July
The BIG Cotswold SWIM - 2nd July 2016
One or Two Mile Swim in one of the nicest lakes in the country.
Venue
Waterland Outdoor Centre, The Cotswold Water Park, Shorncote, Nr Cirencester - two miles from A417 (between Swindon and Cirencester). A clear, fresh water lake, set in a beautifully landscaped area which is used for swimming on a regular basis, as well as boating and windsurfing. There are changing, toilet and shower facilities, onsite catering and plenty of room for spectator viewing and free parking.
Big Swim Medals to all finishers, colour coded hats, chip timing, results and prizes.
Course
The swim will take place in a clear gravel bottom lake and the water quality is checked by the Environment Agency every month from May to September and is rated amongst the top bathing water in the UK. A one or two lap course which will be GPS measured, clearly marked and have a full safety crew.
CLICK HERE TO ENTER
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Lucy Charles impresses at Watford Half
Great 'strides' for Lucy Charles at the Watford Half Marathon
Last week we interviewed 2015 Ironman and Ironman 70.3 Age-Group F18-24 World Champion Lucy Charles, who revealed that she will be racing as a professional in 2016, her first major target being Ironman Lanzarote.
Related Article - Lucy Charles: "I'm racing Pro in 2016"
While such a decision might seem obvious on the surface, there is (still) no guarantee of success at the highest level. While Lucy's swimming is beyond doubt... that nails the first 50 minutes of an Ironman, but that still leaves around eight hours of cycling and running to go! If you consider that Lucy's time in Kona was 10:20:52, that was still more than 20 minutes behind the first British Age Group athlete, Alison Rowatt, and close to an hour behind Pro's Susie Cheetham and Lucy Gossage. As she will know very well and will have considered at length, there is a long way to go and work to be done to develop as a professional Ironman athlete.
That said, I was very impressed with Lucy's run on Sunday at the Watford Half Marathon. A big PB of 1:20:59 (third place overall) shows some great progress already, even over a period of just three months. That sort of run speed isn't going to be threatening the likes of Mirinda Carfrae in the short term, but it is a big step in the right direction. If you consider that Lucy ran 32:26 for a 5-mile race at the end of November, that time is comparable to circa 1:30 for a half marathon. To to run 1:20:59 is significant progress. That also suggests to me that she is in 5km PB form right now too.
Even better, it comes off the back of a midweek cycle time trial (20 miles), which showed a year-on-year improvement of five minutes.
Keep up the good work Lucy.
Watford Half Marathon - Sunday 7th February 2016
Pos
Men
Women
1st
Paul Martelleti 1:07:31
Victoria Knight 1:18:24
2nd
Daniel Steel 1:12:51
Hayley Munn 1:18:29
3rd
Luke Elderfield 1:13:59
Lucy Charles 1:20:59
Thanks @WatfordHalf @UK_ATW for a fab event! Delighted with 3rd lady & sub 1:21, big PB! @skechersGO @compressport pic.twitter.com/oKmBKDepoN— Lucy Charles (@LucyAnneCharles) February 7, 2016
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Age-Group Gold at Winter Tri World Champs
Brit wins Age-Group Gold at Winter Triathlon World Championships
Large British teams attending practically every form of multisport championship, wherever they are in the world, is now the the norm, such is the strength of the British Triathlon Age Group programme. Given our climate, it is fair to say that the discipline of Winter Triathlon - which also falls under the governance of the ITU - is an outlier in that regard however.
This past weekend the ITU Winter Triathlon World Championships took place in Zeltweg, Austria, featuring just two British entries in the run / mtb / ski discipline.
Kerry McGawley, a sports performance physiologist, took the Gold medal in the F35-39 category, beating off the challenge of six Austrians and an Estonian in the process.
Pos
Name
1st
Kerry McGawley (GBR) 1:09:03
2nd
Constance Mochar (AUT) 1:11:59
3rd
Monika Dorfner (AUT) 1:14:51
World Champion! With fastest run, bike AND ski of the day! @BritTri @BritishNordic @CupOfTri @Helenfmurray #stoked pic.twitter.com/rPtth0WRpZ— Kerry McGawley (@KerryMcGawley) February 14, 2016
An experienced triathlete, Kerry has raced for the GB team several times previously, including a fifth place finish at the ITU Long Distance World Champs in Motala, Sweden, last year.
Britain's other representative in Zeitweg was Keith Jenns (19th, M45-49).
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Gallery: Winter Tri World's 2016
The first of an always packed schedule of multisport World Championships events for 2016 took place over the weekend in Zeltweg, Austria, with the ITU Winter Triathlon World Championships. This winter discipline comprises running, mountain biking and cross-country skiing and as we've note separately, Great Britain's Kerry McGawley won a Gold medal in the F35-39 category this year.
The Elite races were won by Pavel Andreev (RUS) and Yulia Surikova (RUS).
Pos
Men
Women
1st
Pavel Andreev (RUS) 1:19:34
Yulia Surikova (RUS) 1:27:21
2nd
Evgeny Kirilov (RUS) 1:19:49
Olga Parfinenko (RUS) 1:29:32
3rd
Giuseppe Lamastra (ITA) 1:21:07
Romana Slavinec (AUT) 1:32:07
An discipline we are not too familiar with - and we suspect, that is the same for many of our readers - we thought we'd take an insight into the racing courtesy of the lens of these superb images from Austria.
(All images are ©Janos M. Schmidt/ITU Media/triathlon.org)
All smiles at the start for Yulia Surikova (RUS).
The Elite races started with a three lap, 7.2km run.
The MTB section was four laps, comprising 12km. No snow to be seen in this image...
The final leg was a 9.6km cross-country ski.
A family affair for the champion, Yulia Surikova (RUS).
Daniel Antonioli (#5) would eventually finish fourth, while Evgeny Kirilov (#4) came closest to toppling the champion, finishing just 15 seconds behind Andreev to take the Silver medal.
Transition 2 is a little more complex in Winter Triathlon.
For Pavel Andreev it was a fifth consecutive Winter Triathlon World Championship victory.
Plenty of smiles at the finish.
Not just snow... plenty of mud too, as the effort of racing shows.
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Pro's sign for Cannes International
Raelert, Aernouts, Cave, Vesterby and more head to Cannes
With entrant numbers already exceeding those of 2015, the Polar® Cannes International Triathlon would appear to be one independent, European event that is going from strength-to-strength. Having been at the event and taken part last year, it comes highly recommended from the personal experience of your Editor.
As well as already having from than 1,200 athletes signed up, it is also drawing in a competitive field of top draw pro athletes, including 2012 Ironman World Champion Leanda Cave and second place at Kona last year, Andreas Raelert.
Here's an update on who will be heading to the Boulevard de la Croisette on Sunday 17th April.
Andreas Raelert and Leanda Cave to compete in the Polar® Cannes International Triathlon
Bart Aernouts, Giulio Molinari and Michelle Vesterby also among the more than 1,200 confirmed triathletes
The third edition of the Polar® Cannes International Triathlon is steadily advancing. With more than 1,200 confirmed entrants, the event has already surpassed last year's numbers by more than 400 triathletes.
All signs indicate that next April 17, the French Riviera will host a high-level race that's establishing itself as the go-to race for triathletes from around the world to kick off the season.
Raelert and Cave will be there
After the duel between Kienle and Frodeno in 2015, the Polar® Cannes International Triathlon has begun to confirm the top names who will be on the start line for this year's event. Now it's official: Andreas Raelert and Leanda Cave will be on French soil to fight for victory.
Along with them, other names that could shake up the leader board include 2015 winner Giulio Molinari, Miquel Blanchart, Charlotte Morel and Alexandra Tondeur.
One challenge, two distances
CIT features two distances, the LD (Long Distance) and the MD (Medium Distance), both of which can be raced individually or in relays. The LD is the highlight of the competition. The 2km swim takes place in the crystal clear waters of Bijou Beach; the cycling segment rolls over an 80 km continuous circuit with no drafting. The final leg is a 16km run on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, with four laps of four kilometers each.
With a more accessible format, the MD features a 1km swim, 50km bike and 8km run.
For more information, visit: www.cannes-international-triathlon.com
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ERDINGER Athlete of the Month 2016
ERDINGER Alkoholfrei Athlete of the Month returns for 2016
It was one of our most popular features throughout last year, so we are thrilled to announce that the ERDINGER Alkoholfrei Athlete of the Month is back for the 2016 season!
Backed once again by long-time triathlon supporter ERDINGER Alkoholfrei (www.erdinger-alkoholfrei.co.uk), we'll be recogising (and rewarding) athletes for their efforts through the year, and we want you to help us select them. Take a look at our 2015 winners to see the range of athletes that were selected in 2015, and check out how you go about nominating them below.
2015 ERDINGER Athlete of the Month winners
January 2015 - Darren Chaplin
July 2015 - Helen Russell
February 2015 - Callum Hughes
August 2015 - Mark Philo
March 2015 - Gill Fullen
September - Andrew Greenleaf
April 2015 - Ruth Wilson
October - Lucy Charles
May 2015 - Sam Wade
November 2015 - Alan Murchison
June 2015 - Melissa Dowell
We know that events and race results are some of the most popular and well used resources on the site, which thousands of you rely upon every week to plan your triathlon season and review your performances. With the support of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei - the Refreshing Isotonic Recovery Drink - we'll be profiling our Athlete of the Month from that information... and, we want your input too!
The choice may be based on one, or perhaps a combination of factors including (but not limited to!):
Outstanding performance at one race,
Consistent performances over a number of events,
Recognition of an athletes efforts over many months, years…or even decades in some cases!
Overcoming setbacks, challenges or obstacles.
Or indeed, any other reason we (or you!) can think of!
As well as the recognition on Tri247 for that month, each monthly winner will receive the following great prizes from ERDINGER Alkoholfrei:
1 x 24case ERDINGER Alkoholfrei Cans
2 x Water Bottles
1 x Rucksack
1 x Visor
1 x Multifunctional Scarf
1 x Small Towel
Help us find the Athlete of the Month! - #AOTM
We want YOU to help us identify an Athlete of the Month candidate each month through 2016!
Perhaps you have got a friend, rival or club-mate who you feels deserves recognition for their efforts - as well as some tasty bottles of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei plus some great prizes? The criteria is up to you - they may be the fastest, have recovered from injury, have sacrificed their own performances from others, shown consistency... anything you think is worthy of recognition!
How can I nominate someone?
Simple - two really easy options:
Simply email aotm@tri247.com with who you would like to see recognised and a brief note on why, or,
If you are on Twitter, use the hastag #AOTM and tweet us @tri247 and let us know when you have seen a noteworthy performance, or have someone you would like us to recognise!
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Challenge Family heads to Finland
The rapid expansion in recent months of the Challenge Family's event portfolio continues, with the announcement of Challenge Turku (www.challengeturku.com) in Finland. Challenge have now covered the Scandinavia region with new events also having being announced recently in
Iceland, Norway and Denmark.
Challenge Turku will take place over the half distance on Saturday 13th August 2016.
Finland will join the international triathlon family in August 2016 when the inaugural CHALLENGETURKU will take place in the historic city of Turku, the old capital of Finland. CHALLENGETURKU will be a whole weekend experience filled with triathlon: Saturday 13th August will host junior and short distance races and Sunday 14th August Challenge Turku Half Distance race.
CHALLENGETURKU is a true city race in the very heart of Turku. With guaranteed atmosphere, the race offers a fast and exciting course.
The 1.9km swim is located at the river mouth where the whole swim segment can be easily followed from the riverbanks. The river hosts many museum ships and swimming has been described like a tour in an open-air museum.
The 90km bike segment will take the athletes across the city to the highway, where the race can also be followed from the many bridges crossing the route. The 21km run course takes place along the riverbanks through the city centre where the whole community will be cheering and supporting the athletes before finishing in Varvintori Square, the epicentre of cultural and sporting events on the river front.
"Joining Challenge Family is a great honour and achievement for the race that saw its introduction first time in 2015. The race weekend exceeded all our expectations and taking this step towards the Challenge Family is a natural continuation for us," comments Challenge Turku Race Director Heikki Jaatinen.
CHALLENGEFAMILY CEO, Zibi Szlufcik, said CHALLENGETURKU was a welcome addition to the global triathlon series. "We now have a really strong presence in Scandinavia with races in Finland, Iceland, Norway and Denmark. Turku's rich cultural history and astonishing natural beauty makes it a great place to race and holiday and we're excited to have CHALLENGETURKU as part of the CHALLENGEFAMILY."
Timo Bracht, one of Europe's triathlon icons commented on the race, "CHALLENGETURKU will be a real game changer in the Finnish triathlon scene. I raced half distance in Turku last year and I was thrilled about the course and the atmosphere. I was with my family a full week in the area and we enjoyed it really well. Something unique and hard to describe is the hospitality and the level of organization. You have to discover it yourself! See you in Turku! I will be racing with you!"
Claus Vesterby, CEO of RaceMakers, the company behind all Nordic CHALLENGEFAMILY events said, "It is with great pleasure that we can be a part of such an extraordinary race in Finland and with our experience from CHALLENGEDENMARK we have great expectations for the Finnish race."
For further information, please visit www.challengeturku.com.
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Tri One announce The Bison Duathlon
A “beast of a duathlon” on October 8, 2016 in cooperation with the Triathlon Trust and the National Trust.
Tri One Ltd. are pleased to announce The Bison Duathlon, a ground-breaking new event to be held on October 8th 2016, at Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire. The course is a challenging mix of off and on-road action over Bison Hill and through the beautiful countryside. For athletes who are looking for a seriously tough challenge, the UK's newest duathlon is one not to miss.
Tri One are partnering with the Triathlon Trust, the official charity of British Triathlon, with £5 of each entry going to the Trust.
One of the sponsors is the Tring Brewery, award-winning beer brewers, who will create an event-specific Bison Beer available to all participants. More local sponsors are being approached.
Entries to The Bison are limited to just 500 places across the full Bison, Baby Bison and Team Relay distances, making this festival styled event a must-do race on the 2016 calendar.
Distances available:
The Bison and Team Relay (13k run-30k bike-13k run)
The Baby Bison (6.5k run-10k bike-6.5k run)
Medals and goodie bags will be given to all finishers, with prizes for the top three male and female winners and prizes also for each year year age group winners.
The event has the full support of the National Trust, is pending approval from Triathlon England and will be run annually. It will be on the “must do list” of any respectable endurance athlete.
To register and learn more, please visit http://thebison.co
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blueseventy appoints European Sales and Marketing Manager
Eve Roberts has joined wetsuit and swimskin brand, blueseventy to lead European Sales and Marketing. Based from the UK, Eve brings industry expertise as well as experience in managing premium brands in blue-chip companies. Being multi-lingual, Eve will propel blueseventy's ability to expand its reach into Europe.
Eve previously launched the SKINFIT brand into the UK and latterly continued her passion for multi-sport working with a major cycling distributor.
Immediate priorities will be to secure blueseventy's strong position as a leader in the UK wetsuit and competitive swimwear market as well as opening new opportunities and supporting European distributors, including recently appointed GJH Sales in Germany.
blueseventy CEO, John Duquette, commented: "We're really pleased to have appointed Eve Roberts and are excited about the potential to grow our European share."
He added: "blueseventy has award-winning wetsuits and swimskins that are proven at the very highest level. Eve gives us the ability to put these fantastic products in front of a broader audience, as well offering a very professional service to our existing customers."
Eve Roberts added: "Working with blueseventy combines my personal passion with an exciting and challenging role. The UK is a really important market with buoyant and growing participation rates. However, the market in both swim and triathlon is becoming more and more competitive and I will make it a priority to ensure we deliver exceptional customer service and maximise brand exposure for all our partners, retailers, consumers, and athletes.
"Our recent distribution agreement with CJH Sales also gives us a great platform to engage with Europe, and I am looking forward to meeting existing and potential new blueseventy partners."
To get in touch to discuss blueseventy in the UK and Europe please contact eve@blueseventy.com and visit www.blueseventy.co.uk.
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