Yvonne Turner reports from the 2016 Hever Castle Triathlon, the marquee event of the Castle Triathlon Series (www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk).
Triathlon unites and inspires the bond between siblings, friends and family at the 2016 Hever Castle Triathlon
Sibling bonding, friendship and sporting camaraderie were the theme this weekend at the Hever Castle Triathlon. The World’s largest children’s triathlon continued the Brownlee spirit, with a festival of sport at the historical Kentish and iconic venue.
There were 108 pairs of siblings racing over the weekend including children, adults and elites, Sam and Tom Wade. The next generation of young triathletes also looked to continue the Olympic legacy as they competed alongside over 1,400 other children, including Bailey Matthews (Helen Rollason BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2015 winner), who this time rejected his walker for a solo run to complete his fifth and final Castle Triathlon Series event of the season.
There were huge crowds to welcome the thousands of competitors who crossed the finishing line, many celebrating not only their triathlon achievement, but the fundraising accomplishments for amazing and personal causes. Many competitors were raising money for children motivated by the event’s National Charity, NSPCC
The spirit was exceptionally popular, one team, Team Phoenix, saw eight women complete their first ever triathlon as part of a rehabilitation exercise to recover from breast cancer.
Continuing the charity theme, Penny Lancaster (Rod Stewart’s wife) completed her first triathlon in a relay with school friends she had known since the age of five. Penny enthused: “My son and niece inspired me when they took part last year. I promised I would do my first this year and have roped in my dear school friends to make a relay. I’ve loved the experience and so pleased to do it to raise money for the incredible work carried out by the children’s hospice; Demelza.”
There were eight different course lengths, with children and elites using different versions of the same course throughout the weekend. Starter, super and sprint plus competitors kicked off the weekend on Saturday morning, whilst elites and long distance triathletes took the lead on Sunday morning, conquering the admirable distances of the Olympic and Gauntlet triathlon.
The afternoons were left for the kids, allowing them to be inspired by the seniors in the morning, before taking on the course in front of friends, families and adult competitors in the afternoon.
The Olympic distance saw a strong field of elites compete for the podium with Sam Wade taking the prize spot followed by Alastair Weymouth and Liam Lloyd. The girls had a great race too with Hannah Drewett finishing first ahead of Hannah Kitchen and Grace France.
The unique swim loop around the River Eden and Sixteen-acre island was hailed as one of the best open water swim routes on the UK circuit. Winner of the Gauntlet, Ewan Brown (Edinburgh Road Club), commented, “The swim was incredible, the nicest swim I’ve ever done!” Female winner, Ruth Purbrook broke the course record set by Carol Bridge shaving four minutes off the lead position. Chantal Cummings took the second place followed by Linda Evans.
Finally, national and local media once again descended on the Castle event to catch the action in the stunning grounds. However, the TV coverage for the event was second to the incredible well wishing for competitors received on BBC Breakfast. BBC sports reporter Mike Bushell broadcast a personally produced programme about the event and the incredible children’s participation. Which finished with a personal message of luck from the Brownleee brothers.
Results
To see the full results please click here.
Olympic
Position
Men
Women
1.
Sam Wade (02:07:16)
Hannah Drewett (02:21:23)
2.
Alastair Weymouth (02:08:57)
Hannah Kitchen (02:21:53)
3.
Liam Lloyd (02:10:30)
Grace France (02:22:59)
The Gauntlet
Position
Men
Women
1.
Ewan Brown (04:31:00)
Ruth Purbrook (05:11:3)
2.
Pete Dyson (04:39:10)
Chantal Cummings (05:15:25)
3.
Tom Higgins (04:50:09)
Linda Evans (05:22:33)
Sign up for 2017
The Castle Triathlon Series has announced the dates for 2017 with registration now open for early bird entries. Hever Castle Triathlon 2017 will take place on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 September 2017 – sign up now.
Hever Castle Triathlon 2016 report
↧
↧
Jodie Swallow wins ITU LD World Champs
Second ITU World Long Distance Triathlon World Championship for Great Britain's Jodie Swallow
Seven years ago in Perth, Australia (Report...), Jodie Swallow won the ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championship, by leading from gun-to-tape. On Saturday in Oklahoma, USA, she did exactly the same to take Gold (and $11,250) again. Fastest swim, fastest bike, fourth fastest run and a winning margin of seven minutes over twice champion (2010 and 2012) World Champion, Caroline Steffen (SUI). Quality.
Speaking to (her team), Bahrain Endurance Media, Swallow said:
“I am so happy to add another ITU Long Distance Championship to my name today in Oklahoma, seven years after my first. It feels really special. It is also my last race with Swallow on my bum,” she said, referring to her upcoming wedding to fiance and coach James Cunnama. “It isn't always easy but on days like this it is worth it.”
With a third fastest swim and fifth fastest run, Catherine Jameson performed well to start the run in fourth position, around six and half minuites behind Jodie. While she fell back to ninth during the 30km run, she showed she has a swim/bike combination to be in contention with most, while continuing the development of her running legs in what was her first GB Elite start.
Like Swallow, Sylvain Sudrie (FRA) also won the title for the second time in the men's Elite race.
Here is the full report courtesy of ITU Media.
Jodie Swallow (GBR) and Sylvain Sudrie (FRA) crowned ITU Long Distance World Champions
Frenchman Sylvain Sudrie and Great Britain’s Jodie Swallow both reclaimed their once earned titles after being crowned the 2016 ITU Long Distance World Champions, after their wins in Oklahoma, United States. Conquering the 4km swim, 120km bike and 30km run multisport course through very strong winds, both elites claimed their second ITU world titles several years after earning their first.
The 2016 ITU Long Distance World Championships took place on Saturday, September 24 in Oklahoma (USA) over a two-lap 4km swim in the Hefner Lake, which is the water reservoir for Oklahoma City that only allowed swimming for the event. After the 4km swim, they took the bikes for a 120km ride into the warm and humid air of the Oklahoma countryside. The course, some urban but mostly rural, was a series of mildly undulating hills with the greatest challenge being the strong country winds. The run course consisted of three laps of 10 km each staged in the flat and fast closed course of the Hefner Lake.
Women’s race
In the women’s race, two previous winners of the event lined up among the field in the hopes of collecting another long distance title, Swallow and Caroline Steffen (SUI). Although the field was stacked with talent from the start, the two women proved that they were the ones to beat for the crown.
The 2009 Long Distance World Champion, Swallow, one of the strongest swimmers in the field, solidified her crown immediately from the beginning after putting up a fast swim that saw her exit the waters first and never losing that lead position until the end.
Swallow the first woman out of the first transition and during the 120km bike ride on the flat and fast course in Oklahoma, increasing her distance with the chasers kilometre by kilometre and crossing the finish line with a time difference of more than seven minutes from Steffen, who produced a supreme effort on the bike course to finish second.
Excelling on the long distance course once again, 2016 has been a year to remember for Swallow, with her victory on the Long Distance World Champs adding to her winning the Ironman Asia Pacific Championship in Cairns, as well as a number of 70.3 wins. The win also saw her return to the top of the ITU podium for the first time in seven years when she won the very same title in 2009.
I am ecstatic to become @worldtriathlon ld champion once again today in hot Oklahoma. 7 years after the first. Thanks 2 coach @JamesCunnama https://t.co/In2MEZhI47
— Jodie Swallow (@jodieswallow) September 24, 2016
Steffen, the Swiss triathlete, who won the world title in 2010 and 2012, has concentrated on half-distance racing this year, recently finishing fifth in an all-star cast at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship on the Sunshine Coast in Australia, but she showed a fantastic performance in Oklahoma, finishing second with a really strong bike course.
Third place then went to Canadian athlete Rachel Mcbride, who managed to keep Annie Thoren and Emily Cocks off the podium. The bronze was a second for Mcbride, after she also earned the bronze in 2013.
Men’s race
It was a France day on the men’s race, with the country taking home the gold and silver from strong and solid performances by Sudrie and Ciryl Viennot. Both men were previous world champions and aiming for the title in Okahoma, but it was Sudrie whoe took the world crown thanks in large part to his amazing swim that managed to earn him the lead that carried onto the bike and run. The gold brought him back on top of the long distance podium after first winning the title in 2010.
The strong winds and waves made the swim really hard from the first strokes and it was Brazilian Rafael Ribeigetting first out of the water, followed closely by Sudrie.
During the bike, 120 km on the flat course with again very strong winds were enough for the Frenchman to get a gap away from the rest of the pack. While Davide Giardine (USA) entered T2 only four minutes behind, on the run Sudrie managed to maintain his lead from the chasers to grab his second world title.
The 30km run along the lake was a killer for some of the athletes, with the chasers changing positions lap by lap. French compatriot Viennot ran the fastest time of the day, which was enough to cross the finish line in second place.
American Matt Chrabot was third after another fantastic show on the run.
2016 ITI Long Distance Triathlon World Championships - Saturday 25th September 20164km / 120km / 30km
Pos
Men
Women
1st
Sylvain Sudrie (FRA) 5:59:46
Jodie Swallow (GBR) 6:37:11
2nd
Cyril Viennot (FRA) 6:02:11
Caroline Steffen (SUI) 6:44:40
3rd
Matt Chrabot (USA) 6:06:13
Rachel McBride (CAN) 6:56:05
4th
Giulio Molinari (ITA) 6:07:22
Annie Thoren (SWE) 6:59:05
5th
Cody Bealls (CAN) 6:08:17
Emily Cocks (USA) 6:59:53
6th
Craig Alexander (AUS) 6:12:57
Kelly Williamson (USA) 7:05:06
7th
Miguel Angel Fidalgo (ESP) 6:14:38
Lesley Smith (USA) 7:07:17
8th
Sam Betten (AUS) 6:15:01
Skye Moench (USA) 7:10:52
9th
Davide Giardini (USA) 6:22:28
Catherine Jameson (GBR) 7:21:47
10th
Dylan McNiece (NZL) 6:22:42
Maria Pujol (ESP) 7:26:57
↧
ERDINGER Athlete of the Month: August 2016
ERDINGER Athlete of the Month - August 2016. And the winner is...
Last month we announced Jon Zigmond as our ERDINGER Athlete of the Month, presenting him with our award for July 2016.
It's now time to reveal the recipient of our recognition for the month of August 2016. Read on / scroll down to see who this months winner is.
Another busy month of racing saw events such as The London Triathlon, Norseman, The Club Relays, Tri Liverpool, 70.3 Dublin, the Olympic Games (!), Aberfeldy Middle Distance and many a popular Ironman. And that's just a tiny snapshot of a full month of racing.
As we've said from the outset, picking a winner for this award can be based upon a range 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.
We have a long list of people here that we would be massively pleased to present this award to... but we have to select just one, from the many very worthy potential recipients.
Please do continue to keep your nominations coming in through the year, it really is appreciated and they are all reviewed. Read on to find out this months winner...
CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL OF THE WINNERS FROM 2015 and 2016
For August we are going to make this award to an athlete you has been in great form all year, recording some super performances over the Middle distances but - we think - perhaps going a little 'under the radar' at times. We suspect that won't be the case for to much longer. Winning an IRONMAN 70.3 European Gold and World Bronze medal should make sure that is the case! We suspect you'll be hearing a lot more from this athlete over the next few years.
AUGUST 2016: RUTH PURBROOK
It really has been a terrific season for Ruth Purbrook. Having last season won the Chateau de Chantilly Middle Distance race, organised by Castle Triathlon Series in France, Ruth has really focussed her attentions on that format this year.
Under the guidance of her coach Will Clarke, the British Ironman Pro and Beijing 2008 Olympian, Ruth really does seem to have found her format, has dedicated herself to improving and that is reflected in these great results:
April - Challenge Fuerteventura: First AG athlete overall.
May - IRONMAN 70.3 Mallorca: First AG athlete overall.
May - Slateman Triathlon: Second overall - in Sprint AND Full to win Slateman Savage.
July - The Gauntlet / Hever Castle: Overall winner.
August - IRONMAN 70.3 European Championships (Wiesbaden): Winner F25-29.
September: IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships (Mooloolaba): Third F25-29.
September: The Gauntlet / Hever Castle: Overall winner.
By anyone's standards that is a superbly consistent season of success - and one that we have been quietly following with interest. Congratulations on a great year Ruth - and enjoy this award.
We are delighted to make Ruth Purbrook our ERDINGER Alkoholfrei AOTM for August 2016. Ruth will also receive these great prizes courtesy of 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 for September 2016! - #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 cans 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!
↧
IM Wales 2016: Age-Group winners
Who took the Age-Group victories at Ironman Wales 2016?
Ok, so this one is a little later than I had originally planned / hoped... but you can blame the Brownlee brothers for that! Their race in Cozumel has somewhat taken over the triathlon world for the past week...so, I'm still playing catch-up.
The Ironman Wales course in Tenby always provides both an immense physical challenge and an exceptional level of local support from a town that truly gets behind the event. Last week we published the race report from Great Britain's Philip Graves, who returned to Pro Ironman racing with a close second place finish in Tenby.
Related Article: Philip Graves - IRONMAN Wales report
The bulk of the field in any Ironman race of course are the Age-Group athletes, and here we say a huge congratulations to the following names who have taken the top positions in their respective age categories, along with a summary of the top five overall Age-Group finishers.
IRONMAN Wales, Tenby - Sunday 18th September 2016 2.4miles / 112 miles - 26.2miles
AGE-GROUP WINNERS
Category
Men
Women
18-24
Jamie Allen (GBR) 10:58:58
Naomi Drakeford (GBR) 12:41:14
25-29
Joe Beech (GBR) 9:54:05
Rhiannon Strickland (GBR) 11:04:26
30-34
Peter Harrison (GBR) 9:42:45
Tracy Markham (RSA) 11:13:43
35-39
Xabier Amparan Corrales (ESP) 9:33:46
Rebecca Fondermann (GER) 10:45:41
40-44
Kenneth Neyt (BEL) 9:47:50
Celia Boothman (GBR) 11:16:46
45-49
Stephane Briquez (FRA) 10:05:33
Penny Gardiner (GBR) 11:44:59
50-54
Stefaan Vervisch (BEL) 10:12:59
Carolyn Craik (GBR) 12:05:24
55-59
Gilles Cuenat (SUI) 11:31:58
Share Forrester (GBR) 13:59:10
60-64
Chris Strickland (GBR) 12:24:00
Pat Cooke-Rogers (GBR) 16:26:01
65-69
Ulrich Prätsch (GER) 15:36:05
Linda Spillane (GBR) 15:01:51
FASTEST OVERALL AGE-GROUPERS
Pos
Men
Women
1st
Xabier Amparan Corrales (ESP) 9:33:46 (35-39)
Rebecca Fondermann (GER) 10:45:41 (35-39)
2nd
Peter Harrison (GBR) 9:42:45 (30-34)
Rhiannon Strickland (GBR) 11:04:26 (25-29)
3rd
Nicolas Auverdin (BEL) 9:45:19 (30-34)
Claire Shea-Simonds (GBR) 11:12:56 (35-39)
4th
Kenneth Neyt (BEL) 9:47:50 (40-44)
Tracy Markham (RSA) 11:13:43 (30-34)
5th
Toni Pysto (FIN) 9:51:44 (30-34)
Celia Boothman (GBR) 11:16:46 (40-44)
CLICK HERE TO SEE WHO QUALIFIED FOR KONA 2017
↧
Ironman Wales: 2017 Kona Qualifiers
Ironman Wales 2016 was one of the first opportunities for Age Group athletes to qualify for the 2017 Ironman World Championships, and thus provides more than a year to plan and train for their Kona races.
There were 40 Age-Group qualifying places for Kona at Ironman Wales 2014, and here is the full list of those athletes that accepted their places for the Ironman World Championships in October 2015. Congratulations to all of you.
Kona Qualifiers from all four editions of Ironman Wales are on these links
Ironman Wales 2011 (for Kona 2012)
Ironman Wales 2012 (for Kona 2013)
Ironman Wales 2013 (for Kona 2014)
Ironman Wales 2014 (for Kona 2015)
Ironman Wales 2015 (for Kona 2016) - coming soon!
Ironman Wales 2016 (for Kona 2017) - provided below...
Kona 2017 Qualifiers, Ironman Wales: 18th September 2016
BIB
First Name
Last Name
Division
Rank
Country
Swim
Bike
Run
Finish Time
304
Naomi
Drakeford
F18-24
1
GBR
00:58:24
06:47:49
04:43:14
12:41:14
125
Rihannon
Strickland
F25-29
1
GBR
00:59:54
06:12:20
03:40:25
11:04:26
127
Tracy
Markham
F30-34
1
GBR
00:52:48
06:25:21
03:43:45
11:13:43
102
Rebecca
Fondermann
F35-39
1
DEU
00:58:38
05:59:03
03:36:49
10:45:41
391
Claire
Shea-Simonds
F35-39
2
GBR
00:56:14
06:23:51
03:41:30
11:12:56
406
Celia
Boothman
F40-44
1
GBR
01:01:21
06:31:37
03:31:43
11:16:46
448
Penny
Gardiner
F45-49
1
GBR
01:02:29
06:20:35
04:08:30
11:44:59
239
Jan
Rogers
F50-54
2
GBR
01:03:12
06:55:53
04:24:27
12:42:27
138
Share
Forrester
F55-59
1
GBR
01:21:06
07:39:02
04:39:47
13:59:10
476
Pat
Cooke-Rogers
F60-64
1
GBR
01:29:47
08:40:09
05:51:56
16:26:01
481
Jamie
Allen
M18-24
1
GBR
00:52:32
06:04:06
03:52:31
10:58:58
510
Cillian
Moffat
M18-24
3
IRL
01:01:17
06:16:42
04:00:33
11:29:13
666
Richard
Straughan
M25-29
2
GBR
00:55:50
05:35:19
03:22:27
10:06:07
530
Norman
Banick
M25-29
3
DEU
00:53:12
05:38:38
03:24:09
10:06:41
596
Gareth
Hodgson
M25-29
4
GBR
00:55:04
05:32:32
03:32:36
10:11:23
770
Peter
Harrison
M30-34
1
GBR
01:00:07
04:58:06
03:33:00
09:42:45
841
Toni
Pysto
M30-34
3
FIN
00:52:20
05:28:05
03:22:05
09:51:44
912
Andy
Sloan
M30-34
4
GBR
00:53:58
05:26:10
03:23:34
09:57:04
152
Rik
Linssen
M30-34
5
NLD
00:47:11
05:43:06
03:24:29
10:03:33
155
Xabier
Amparan Corrale
M35-39
1
ESP
00:53:47
05:19:36
03:09:29
09:33:46
948
James
Brown
M35-39
2
GBR
00:54:54
05:26:02
03:22:11
09:53:08
106
Philipp
Gubler
M35-39
3
CHE
00:56:45
05:30:57
03:16:44
09:53:43
255
Javier
Perez
M35-39
4
ESP
00:55:51
05:39:54
03:06:55
09:53:55
1177
Alan
Semple
M35-39
5
GBR
00:57:42
05:38:41
03:13:06
10:00:00
1437
Kenneth
Neyt
M40-44
1
BEL
00:54:49
05:25:03
03:17:45
09:47:50
174
Oliver
Harkin
M40-44
2
IRL
00:56:58
05:30:58
03:24:51
10:02:42
266
Benoit
Linquet
M40-44
3
FRA
00:51:12
05:38:54
03:23:52
10:04:07
1410
Vincent
Matton
M40-44
5
FRA
00:55:21
05:44:29
03:17:36
10:08:30
1482
Jorn
Schumm
M40-44
7
DEU
01:06:43
05:38:43
03:17:27
10:15:59
275
Stephane
Briquez
M45-49
1
FRA
00:57:19
05:36:11
03:21:47
10:05:33
1573
Steve
Berry
M45-49
2
GBR
00:59:32
05:35:10
03:44:15
10:29:59
1569
Ivo
Bauer
M45-49
4
DEU
01:02:41
05:37:21
03:42:41
10:34:07
201
Huw
Jones
M45-49
5
GBR
01:02:00
05:46:29
03:35:20
10:35:09
296
Stefaan
Vervisch
M50-54
1
BEL
00:55:18
05:38:44
03:26:42
10:12:59
218
Thomas
Tzschentke
M50-54
2
DEU
01:05:22
05:40:02
03:18:05
10:18:01
1941
Graham
Brookhouse
M50-54
3
GBR
00:49:57
05:33:34
03:52:45
10:27:47
221
Gilles
Cuenat
M55-59
1
CHE
01:08:53
06:15:37
03:48:48
11:31:58
120
Martin
Gannon
M55-59
2
GBR
01:06:02
06:12:32
04:06:14
11:38:53
1993
Chris
Strickland
M60-64
1
GBR
00:55:31
06:26:58
04:44:14
12:24:00
122
Ulrich
Pratsch
M65-69
1
DEU
01:37:21
07:56:35
05:28:01
15:36:05
↧
↧
Dixon, Dibdin take Huntsman Triathlon 2016
Hampshire Huntsman Triathlon 2016 Delivers Racing Thrills at Hawley Lake
Hundreds of triathletes from across the UK and beyond descended on Hawley Lake, Hampshire for the ever popular Huntsman Triathlon powered by Suunto.
A rainy start cleared early on, and the warm morning sun shone on the competitors as they entered Hawley Lake for a 1500 metre swim.
Kicking off proceedings were the sprint distance racers, with eventual winner Alex Deans blitzing the competition to complete the 750 metre swim in just over 10 minutes. The 17 year old went on to finish almost three minutes ahead of second place Gareth Sylvester-Bradley. Oliver Murphy rounded off the men’s sprint top three.
Anna Mcglaughlin won the women’s sprint distance in a hotly contested race. Ali Housley crossed the line in second place, just 34 seconds behind Anna with Ludovica Bruno in third.
In the Olympic distance event, just three minutes separated the podium with Colin Dixon emerging victorious after a hugely impressive 22 minute 1500 metre swim which set him up brilliantly for the rest of the course. Karl Free of Metropolitan Police Triathlon finished second after a strong cycle section, with Robert Fryer finishing third.
Vicki Dibdin completed the Olympic course a convincing 10 minutes ahead of second place Rebecca Campbell, Vicky gained a six minute lead in the cycle section alone!
A spokesperson for Always Aim High Events, the organisers of the Huntsman Triathlon, commented: “It’s a huge privilege to be able to be at Hawley Lake and host this super friendly and fun adventure trail triathlon. The triathletes were cheered on by huge crowds along the transition and event village, as well as out on the cycle.”
“We’d like to say a huge thank you to all the competitors, visitors and marshals who made the day what it was! We would like to thank our event partners, Suunto, Pedal Cover, High5 Sports Nutrition, AquaSphere, Erdinger and Superfeet for the continued support.”
For photos courtesy of Light Trapper photography please visit huntsmantri.com.
Huntsman Triathlon 2016 powered by SuuntoSelected Results:
Olympic Distance
Men’s Top 3
Colin Dixon - 02:07:02
Karl Free - 02:09:34
Robert Fryer - 02:10:07
Women’s Top 3
Vicky Dibdin 02:25:24
Rebecca Campbell 02:36:36
Vikki Aust 02:41:07
Sprint Distance
Men’s Top 3
Alex Deans 01:04:08
Gareth Sylvester-Bradley 01:06:57
Oliver Murphy 01:07:11
Women’s Top 3
Anna Mcglaughlin 01:22:09
Ali Housley 01:22:43
Ludovica Bruno 01:24:14
Full results, courtesy of TDL Event Services, are available at huntsmantri.com
↧
IM Weymouth: 2017 Kona Qualifiers
Who's going to Kona 2017, via Weymouth 2016?
With the 2016 IRONMAN World Championships just 10 days away, excitement will be rapidly gathering pace as we approach triathlon's most iconic and historic race.
For some, getting to Kona next year is already in the bag. Having yesterday published the qualifiers list of athletes who qualified at IRONMAN Wales, a week earlier there were also Hawaii qualification slots on offer at IRONMAN Weymouth.
There were 30 Age-Group qualifying places for Kona at IRONMAN Weymouth 2016, and here is the full list of those athletes that accepted their places for the Ironman World Championships in October 2017. Congratulations to all of you.
Kona 2017 Qualifiers, Ironman Weymouth: 11th September 2016
BIB
First Name
Last Name
Division
Rank
Country
Swim
Bike
Run
Total
3114
Rosie
Hattersley
F18-24
1
GBR
01:20:42
06:51:08
03:55:29
12:19:59
3136
Roxanne
Woodfield
F25-29
1
GBR
01:13:07
06:30:32
04:09:05
12:07:09
3147
Sarah
Leakey
F30-34
1
GBR
01:04:38
05:50:52
03:29:27
10:32:25
3021
Elaine
Garvican
F35-39
1
GBR
01:08:35
54:33:00
03:23:53
10:34:28
3173
Joanna
Carritt
F40-44
1
GBR
01:03:08
05:56:55
03:30:46
10:37:35
3082
Karen
Driver
F45-49
1
GBR
00:59:00
06:51:00
03:57:00
11:59:22
3204
Diane
Hier
F50-54
2
GBR
01:08:29
06:46:13
04:06:28
12:14:51
3001
Elizabeth
Gannon
F55+
1
GBR
01:22:58
06:55:00
04:12:35
12:40:38
3222
Alex
Garrod
M18-24
3
GBR
00:59:25
06:02:11
04:27:29
11:38:16
3236
Milo
Purvis
M18-24
4
GBR
01:16:33
06:20:21
03:46:59
11:45:35
3259
Martin
Fredriksson
M25-29
1
SWE
00:59:33
05:17:09
03:15:21
09:37:47
3017
Marc
Joos
M25-29
2
CHE
00:54:42
05:22:39
03:28:48
09:52:20
3004
Michal
Podsiadkowski
M30-34
1
POL
01:06:23
05:01:20
03:09:17
09:22:25
3003
Soren
Kofoed
M30-34
2
DNK
01:08:09
05:08:32
03:08:00
09:30:57
3387
Paul
Ransome
M30-34
3
GBR
01:02:18
05:08:39
03:20:54
09:38:55
3088
Flemming
Bjerregaard
M35-39
1
DNK
01:01:29
05:23:53
03:15:07
09:48:12
3485
Kristjan
Melikov
M35-39
2
EST
00:58:37
05:28:35
03:19:40
09:52:53
3037
Philip
Tucker
M35-39
3
GBR
01:01:59
05:06:32
03:39:39
09:57:19
3811
Declan
Doyle
M40-44
1
IRL
01:03:19
05:14:51
03:28:29
09:55:54
3007
Thomas
Claracq
M40-44
2
FRA
01:05:17
05:35:03
03:19:50
10:08:47
3632
Nicholas
Shepperd
M40-44
3
GBR
01:08:10
05:29:03
03:26:21
10:12:21
3042
Ringo
De Rijck
M40-44
4
BEL
01:12:56
05:36:53
03:19:40
10:18:00
3050
Conrad
Boerman
M45-49
1
NLD
01:04:54
05:21:10
03:25:50
10:00:23
3731
Ken
Holder
M45-49
2
GBR
00:58:40
05:25:35
03:31:18
10:00:55
3810
John
Mead
M45-49
4
GBR
01:04:28
05:24:11
03:45:55
10:22:08
3067
Hilton
Meneely
M50-54
1
GBR
01:06:45
05:40:45
03:20:34
10:16:19
3832
Bruno Norb
De Decker
M50-54
2
BEL
01:01:21
05:25:52
03:41:28
10:17:22
3077
Neil
Mcloughlin
M50-54
3
GBR
01:08:23
05:35:43
03:32:20
10:24:49
3901
Arjen
Langbroek
M55+
1
NLD
01:13:25
05:49:12
03:36:46
10:47:53
3900
Torben
Kjaer
M55+
2
DNK
01:16:55
05:59:46
04:04:18
11:28:39
↧
A new Cervélo is launching next week
New Cervélo Triathlon bike to be announced next week
As we approach the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, it is often the time that we get to see the release of new products to the market. And, little gets more attention than the new bikes and related technologies.
It would appear that something big in triathlon world is coming next week too, based on this teaser shot from Cervélo (www.cervelo.com).
The brand has been a market leader in the multisport world, dominating the bike count results in Kona for many a year now. In last years count, conducted by lavamagazine.com, there were 522 Cervelo bikes on Kailua Pier, with Trek the next best at 275.
Given that - and that the current top model in their line, the P5, was launched in January 2012 - the launch of a new model, its first for almost five years, looks set to create plenty of interest and discussion.
We'll bring you more news as soon as we can. For now, here are their teaser images...
↧
The IRONMAN World Championship medal
How are the IRONMAN World Championship medals made?
If your social media feeds are anything like mine (and you have a few fast friends or associates...), you've likely been seeing a few postings featuring stunning ocean views and, "just arrived in Kona, can't wait to race!" type comments.
The IRONMAN World Championship is rapidly approaching - race day is Saturday 8th October 2016 - and for those of us in the U.K. at least,it means a very late night / early morning of tracking the top Pro's and those we might be connected with. Sometimes, I think watching is tougher than racing.
For the vast majority, simply getting to Kona has probably involved years of sacrifice and dedication - which means that the finishers medal at the end of it will almost certainly take pride of place in that athletes collection. The medals are produced by Asworth Awards (www.ashworthawards.com), based in Massachusetts, and they have put together a short video feature on how the medals are produced.
Best wishes to everyone racing, and good luck in your quest to be wearing one of these shortly after you cross the finish line on Ali'i Drive.
Making the 2016 IRONMAN World Championship medals - Ashworth Awards
↧
↧
Weekend preview: October 01-02
OK, someone finally called a halt to all the Summer fun and it looks like we're heading into that slightly awkward time between the end of triathlon season and the start of the duathlon and off-road stuff that will keep us busy for the next next six months. Which also means that some of us can start to catch up on sleep, email and domestic chores...
No ITU stuff on the calendar at all but the WTC does have a fair crop of races. Ironman Maryland on Saturday is age group only but all three of Sunday's events do have a pro field. Ironman Taiwan has no GB listed but Ironman Barcelona includes Ritchie Nicholls, Robert Brundish, Craig Twigg, Hywel Davies, Oliver Simon and Kate Comber on their list. The only half-distance race, Ironman 70.3 Cozumel, shows James Hadley and Emma-Kate Lidbury as contenders.
Just four events for Saturday: the Roadford Team Triathlon down in the West Country, the Tri Farm Trailathon in Eastern region, the Kielder Run Bike Run in the North East and Scotland's version of ÖTILLÖ, Loch Gu Loch.
Sunday looks a bit busier but there's barely one event per region when you discount the ones offering multiple distances. Yorkshire has the Last of the Summer Triathlon, the North West has the Oulton Park Duathlon. Wales has the GB Duathlon and the Amman Valley Sprint Triathlon, the West Midlands offers the Warwickshire Triathlon and the East Midlands positively packs them in with the Brackley Triathlon and the Carsington Duathlon plus the Drax Goole Sprint.
Three events in the Eastern region: the last of the Tri Crazy Series at Bedford, the Great Notley Autumn Duathlon and the Adams Harrison Triathlon while the South East, normally the busiest, can only offer up the Hemel Hempstead Triathlon although there is the London Fields Aquathlon as well if you include London.
And, finally, down in the South West it's the Bowood House Duathlon, the Players Sprint Triathlon and the Taunton Deane Junior Aquathlon to finsh off the weekend.
FULL WEEKEND RACE LISTINGS
↧
HUUB extend partnership with Dave Scott
HUUB Design announces continued partnership with six-time Ironman World Champion Dave Scott
Multi-award winning Triathlon outfitters HUUB Design are pleased to announce a continued partnership with six-time Ironman world champion, Dave Scott, for a further three years.
The continued affiliation between HUUB and Scott will see them embark on advanced research projects and bring exciting new developments to the bestselling Dave Scott line, designed to ensure comfort and breathability in a faster garment.
The new line will feature training items and improved suits which will continue to set the benchmark for ultimate triathlon comfort across the three disciplines, whilst ensuring enhanced performance with improved aerodynamics.
Dean Jackson founder of HUUB Design said; “Dave is a hugely influential individual in the industry and having him on board for another three years is a huge asset to our brand. He is pivotal to the line’s success, giving us invaluable intel and development ideas so we’re every excited to continue to work closely together in order to bring more innovation to the new line.”
“I’m very proud to attach my name to the award-winning HUUB Dave Scott line of triathlon apparel. It represents our mutual commitment to producing the very best. Its innovative fit, style and function make it the preferred choice among serious triathletes worldwide. I’m honoured to work with a company like HUUB that is always raising the standards of what’s possible in technical apparel,” said six-time Ironman world champion Dave Scott.
Coach to some of the world’s greatest triathlete's, Dave Scott will also be supporting HUUB with training advice and guidance which can be found on the website www.huubdesign.com.
2016 has been another hugely successful year for HUUB Design; winning 'Best Triathlon Wetsuit Brand’ for a third year in a row at the 220 Triathlon Awards and picking up the award for ‘Best Tri Suit Brand’, supporting several Paralympians and Olympians including the Brownlee brothers who won gold and silver at Rio 2016 and also announcing an exciting new partnership with Swim Serpentine, London's newest open water festival. They have also pioneered scientific research with their Measuring Active Drag (MAD) system, a key component in empirically proving performance enhancement in developed suit technology.
↧
Is this tough enough for you?
Is this Europe's next iconic 'Extreme' Triathlon? The Evergreen Endurance 228
Earlier this year we featured the Evergreen Endurance Triathlon (www.evergreen-endurance.com), the second edition of a Chamonix (France) based event that is "arguably the most beautiful yet testing triathlon in the world."
Offering a number of distances, the flagship Evergreen 228 covers 4km of swimming, 181 kilometres (with, 7,400m of altitude gain...), before a 43km trail run into Chamonix.
If you like things tough, but in totally stunning surroundings, well - this could be the challenge for you.
“To me this event is more than a race, it is a true adventure that will push anyone’s limits once you commit to the challenge" was the feedback from the Karin Sloove, first female across the line just a few seconds inside the 19 hour mark.
Given the popularity of events such as Norseman, Celtman, Swissman, Embrunman and The Brutal among others, I'd say that the Evergreen Endurance 228 has all the hallmarks of a "must do" event for those that like something different and very challenging.
The epic Alpine adventure, Evergreen Endurance Triathlon grows from strength-to-strength in 2016
Evergreen 228 winner comes home in an epic time of just over 16 hours, putting the event up there with the toughest
Following on from a successful inaugural event in 2015, the Evergreen Endurance Triathlon weekend of racing, 10-11th September, experienced huge growth in just its second year, with 362 athletes lining up at the three distances, over twice the number from the previous year.
Each race was set to a picture-postcard backdrop rivalled by none other. With jaw-dropping mountain vistas as far as the eye can see, together with the spectacular race route that encapsulates all that nature has to offer, the competitors were treated to a breath-taking two-days of swimming, cycling and running.
The flagship event of the action-packed weekend is the Evergreen 228, covering 228 kilometres and over 7,400m of altitude gain along the way. Starting with a striking 4km swim in the Alpine Lac de Montriand, athletes then tackle a mountainous 181km bike leg up and down the Alpine roads favoured annually by Tour de France pros, before finishing with a 43km trail run to the line in Chamonix. The 173 brave triathletes lining up on the start line early on the Saturday morning made for a sight to savour. Each and every one showed true grit and determination out on the route and, together with all other gutsy participants at the world’s most beautiful triathlon, they kicked off a hugely successful weekend of racing.
Looking back at the race, co-founder Carlton Rowlands, a British international elite trail runner himself, said: “Firstly, a huge thank you to everybody who came out to race this year and all of those who helped make the event possible – it was amazing to see how we have grown since last year. We’re still only in our second year and we’ve got people telling us how it’s the most amazing event they’ve every raced, and that they’re already thinking about how they can improve their preparations for next year. Now what we need is to see some more Brits make the journey over to discover what it’s like to race here in Chamonix. You won’t be disappointed!”
The winner of the 2016 Evergreen 228 was Frederic Frech, who finished in a time of 16h 19’ 19”. The first woman over the line – also making Evergreen Endurance history as the first Evergreen 228 female finisher – was Karin Sloove, racing to a time of 18h 59’45”. In total 112 athletes finished the Evergreen 228; from 117 starters, 115 finished the Evergreen 118, and of the 81 who entered the shorter Evergreen 58 race, 77 came across the finish line, with the winner, Jérôme Goussard, finishing in an impressive time of 4h 56’ 39”.
Karin Sloove, the first ever female Evergreen 228 finisher, said after the race: “To me this event is more than a race, it is a true adventure that will push anyone’s limits once you commit to the challenge. I simply cannot choose one highlight as there are just too many! The magical swim in Lac de Montriond. The crazy switchback descents on the bike. The first glance of the Mont Blanc massif when descending from Megève. The moment you get off the bike and realise what you just did (and what awaits!). And, of course, the finish.”
True to the green spirit of Evergreen Endurance, each competitor received a sapling, to be planted as part of the event’s commitment to give back to the environment. As well as being entirely paperless, using electrical and low emission vehicles as well as biodegradable transition equipment, having a strict littering penalty system, and the many efforts the event makes to reduce its carbon footprint, Evergreen Endurance remains on track to be 100% carbon neutral by 2019.
With only a small number of Brits on the start line, Evergreen Endurance is calling out to you! Come and join in for 2017, and look out for news on the confirmation of the event dates, together with early bird offers. Stay up to date on the website, or across the Evergreen Endurance social media channels – Facebook and Twitter.
www.evergreen-endurance.com/en/welcome/
↧
Sometimes the results don't matter...
The Brownlee Tri 2016 - A Great Day for Triathlon
Tri247 Editor, John Levison, looks back on the 2016 Brownlee Tri (www.brownleetri.com), a fantastic day in the stunning surrounds of Harewood House in Yorkshire. A brilliantly organised event that put the smiles (and many emotional tears), on the faces of thousands of people last weekend.
And the winner was... triathlon itself.
It's been a very busy time for the sport of late. The Olympic Games, the ITU World Championships (Short and Long Distance), and many other performance-focussed events have followed in quick succession. That continues over the next week as the entire swim-bike-run world will be mesmerised by the word 'Kona'. Many of us will be living out our multisport dreams vicariously through the very best long distance athletes, professional and amateur, in the world at an event that in many ways is the history of triathlon. Either that, or looking on jealously at stunning photographs and videos across all of our social media platforms thinking... one day, perhaps!
All of those events are, and will continue to be, something we take huge interest in here at Tri247. We know the sacrifices that are made, especially within the Age-Group community, just to make the start line at some of these races - and we make it a key part of our role to support and recognise those feats - consistently, accurately and swiftly - year after year. Truly, we care. We've spent far too many exhausted nights and early mornings still working away in the dark not to.
One of the great things about triathlon is its inclusiveness. With so many events, so many distances and formats, there really is something for everyone. At the top, that might be to win the Olympic Games or IRONMAN World Championships. For the hard core amateur, becoming an Age-Group World Champion might be a ten year journey. For others, simply completing the course is the end of an amazing (to borrow from many a TV talent show), 'journey'.
I think this is summed up very well by a quote I read from renowned coach, Brett Sutton: "Choose your own Everest". I think that really captures it well. Triathlon offers you that option.
So, what is the connection to the Brownlee Tri? Last Saturday (as I have for every Brownlee Tri event since they started in 2013), I worked at the event as one of the on-site commentators/announcers alongside regular Tri247 contributor and coach, Simon Ward. It was a great day and, for once, the results and winners really were secondary.
The Brownlee brothers of course really were hot property in the week leading up to their event, given the massive global media coverage from the last moments of their race at the World Triathlon Series Grand Final in Cozumel. Local heroes already (with a pub, the Brownlee Arms, named after them...), appearing back in Yorkshire just days later, certainly boosted the number of spectators - as well as creating an enormous demand for selfies and autographs.
It would be easy perhaps, (from the outside), to be skeptical of an event like this. To assume that it is a 'stick a name on' and try and make some money. That the aims of "inspiring and encouraging people, of whatever age and ability to be active and enjoy a great day out" were just hollow words. But, this was without doubt one of the best event experiences I've been to. It was an incredibly positive day, featuring so many happy faces, so many inspiring stories, so many charity fundraisers and a true 'experience' for everyone present.
The Brownlee Foundation is "committed to giving children all over the UK a positive sporting experience...", and once again, they are not empty objectives. Delivered by the Triathlon Trust, the (free) kids duathlon had almost 500 children pass through during the day, the busiest event of its kind I think I've ever seen. No equipment required, just turn up and they provided a bike and helmet. Seeing the pride of kids from three years old with their medal and Brownlee certificate (many subsequently then signed...), was brilliant. Located right next to the main finish line and with the backdrop of Harewood House, what a great first-time multisport experience for many.
In the Adult events, interviewing people after the race and finding out they were all set to have a gastric band fitted, then decided 'no, I'm going to change my life myself', and losing 10 stone in weight and bursting into tears on completing a (typically Brownlee tough!) Super Sprint triathlon... they don't care what position they are in or how fast. And why should they?
The Brownlee Tri attracts a huge proportion of novice triathletes and provides a wonderfully organised event in an incredible setting. A "packed Entertainment Village" for once really did mean that; lots of non-triathlon activities to keep the family amused during the day, including the biggest inflatable assault course I've ever seen (imagine a cross between Total Wipeout and Ninja Warrior...), a wide choice of catering outlets and all co-located next to the swim start, transition and finish line. It really was a village experience.
The course isn't an easy one - but a multi-lap, traffic-free bike route is perfect for the target audience with small wave sizes reducing the chances of 'biff' in the swim. There was no sterile 'run up there and around a cone' course either, thanks to an off-road run in the fantastic Harewood House grounds. Great finish line, a stunning backdrop, quickly followed by a bespoke medal and t-shirt. Welcome to triathlon!
Appropriately perhaps, the podium for the Men's Sprint Distance event featured two brothers, Lewis and Rory Strachan. Congratulations to them, and everyone else who went away from the event with some nice prizes for their athletic endeavours.
I think they would also agree though, Saturday 24th September was a day when triathlon itself was the winner. All-in-all, a magnificent day - the best Brownlee Tri yet - and an event more than worthy of carrying the names of the Olympic Gold and Silver medallists.
For more on the Brownlee Tri, visit www.brownleetri.com.
↧
↧
Scottish Ironman record for Ritchie Nicholls
7th place at Ironman Barcelona earns Scottish Ironman Record
Ritchie Nicholls produced an 8:13:01 finish on Sunday at Ironman Barcelona, making him the new Scottish Ironman record holder. The previous best was set three years ago at the same venue by Graeme Stewart. Ritchie has now improved Graeme's figures by three minutes and 41 seconds, which will also place him joint sixth in the list of fastest British iron-distance men.
It also make it something of a family double, as Ritchie's wife, Eimear Mullan, is the Irish Ironman record holder. She also recorded her best to date at Ironman Barcelona 12 months ago.
That's some flashy race kit on @RitchieNicholls 😀 He was 7th today and a new Scottish record #IMBarcelona pic.twitter.com/cBCY9AFZbX
— Eimear Mullan (@the_e_m_u) October 2, 2016
Scottish Iron-Distance Record Progression (Men)
Athlete
Event
Finishing Time
Scott Neyedli
Ironman UK 2007
8:35:53
Graeme Stewart
Ironman Austria 2008
8:35:09
Graeme Stewart
Challenge Roth 2009
8:23:39
Scott Neyedli
Ironman Western Australia 2009
8:17:48
Graeme Stewart
Ironman Barcelona 2013
8:16:42
Ritchie Nicholls
Ironman Barcelona 2016
8:13:01
British & Irish Iron-Distance Records
↧
Haseeb Ahmad breaks IRONMAN world record
A World Record plus plenty of British podiums at IRONMAN Barcelona
Among several excellent British performances at IRONMAN Barcelona on Sunday, pride of place must surely go to Haseeb Ahmad, and his guide, Duncan Shea-Simmonds.
A visually impaired (fully blind) athlete, Haseeb has long been a member of the British Triathlon Paratriathlon squad, winning several international medals including the Bronze at the ITU World Championships in Hyde Park, 2013. With the men's PT5 category not being contested (currently at least), within the programme of the Paralympic Games, Haseeb has been branching out into other events with some success - including a sub three hour marathon.
In his first attempt over the distance, Haseeb was attempting the break the world record for Ironman for a visually impaired athlete, which previously stood at 11:10:28. And, that barrier was broken with new record figures of 11:03:31, achieved via a 1:22:39 swim, 5:08:01 bike and a 4:19:03 run.
@ClaireSSTri @HaseebAhmad2 @DSS123 They have done it, beaten the record by 7 minutes. Haseeb....you are an IRONMAN. Awesome guiding Duncan.
— Paul Kaye (@kayeman) October 2, 2016
Huge congratulations to Haseeb on his achievement, and of course to Duncan, a fine athlete in his own right including racing at the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona.
Today was Haseeb's day but I am so proud of @DSS123 - I think very few people will fully appreciate what a tough gig that was. My hero xxx
— Claire Shea-Simonds (@ClaireSSTri) October 2, 2016
There were also some fine performances in from the large British Age-Group contingent, including more than ten podium finishes plus several sub-nine hour (men) and sub-ten hour (women). Here's a quick roundup:
Female GB Podium Finishers at IRONMAN Barcelona
Juliet May (F18-24) - 11:02:01 (1st)
Linda Blakely (F40-44) - 10:14:43 (3rd)
Tamara Hardman (F45-49) - 9:47:29 (1st)
Gwen Bevan (F45-49) - 9:57:07 (2nd)
Sadie Murphy (F50-54) - 11:15:16 (3rd)
T Hollins (F60-64) - 12:28:32 (2nd)
Alison Lamputt (F60-64) - 14:07:30 (3rd)
Pat Attwood (F65-69) - 15:03:56 (1st)
Male GB Podium Finishers at IRONMAN Barcelona
Neil Eddy (M30-34) - 8:46:32 (1st)
Paul Lunn (M40-44) - 8:57:11 (2nd)
Simon Jack (M65-69) - 11:16:40 (2nd)
As well as winning the M30-34 category, Neil Eddy was also the second fastest Age-Group athlete across all categories, in 21st position overall. Also worthy of mention her is Robbie Whittaker - he finished in a very swift 8:56:50 in M25-29, but that left him in fourth place in his division, just 18 seconds shy of the podium.
Ironman Barcelona - Baked. 8:56:50 #IMBarcelona pic.twitter.com/ibM0EjnTWl
— Robbie Whitaker (@Robbie_WTK) October 2, 2016
A special mention also for Mark and Tim Dean. Twins, they have gone from novices to Sub-11 hours in less than a year, assisted in the journey by Pro Lucy Gossage and top Age-Group athlete Tom Vickery.
Related Article: Scottish Ironman Record for Ritchie Nicholls
↧
Britain's Fastest Iron Men
JOE SKIPPER AND WILL CLARKE CRACK THE EIGHT HOUR BARRIER
[UPDATED FOR 2016 following Ironman New Zealand (Joe Skipper), Ironman Brazil (Tim Don), Ironman Frankfurt (Will Clarke), Challenge Roth 2016 (Joe Skipper), Ironman Copenhagen (Will Clarke), Ironman Vichy (Harry Wiltshire) and Ironman Barcelona (Ritchie Nicholls)]
Regular readers of Tri247 will be aware that your Editor does have more than a passing interest in triathlon statistics, especially of the iron-distance variety.
Having previously written, and subsequently updated, the Fastest British Iron Ladies article (charting every sub-nine hour 15 minute iron distance finish by British female athletes ever recorded), I wanted to do similar for the British men. I also left that article with the thought "If Chrissie Wellington has an 8:18:13 finish to her name, where would Chrissie's best sit in the British men's ranking?" Here is the answer to that one too...
Starting in 2009 and expanded throughout the last few seasons, I embarked on a project to pull together a variety of iron distance statistics and records. Links to all of the current reference articles can be found at the foot of this article, which variously cover both an International and a British perspective, finishing times and podium positions.
Part of this was for personal desire - I have a natural affinity to numbers, lists and records. When it comes to sports, I generally seem to have pretty good memory for facts and figures too. However, in relation to some of the information I was keen to find, I was surprised to find that I couldn't find data sets that I thought surely someone must have done this already? Apparently not. So, I went off and did it myself...
Having already looked at 'fastest times' on world level within the Sub-9 (women) and Sub-8 (men) articles, I was keen to investigate that a little further with my British hat on to produce a comprehensive list of the fastest British iron-distance times.
For the British ladies at least, I expanded that HERE to incorporate a complete historical British sub-9:15 analysis.
And now for the British men. Well, the men and one particularly fast woman. What is collated below is my attempt to list every sub-eight hour 30 minute iron distance finish by British athletes ever recorded.
British Iron Distance Finishes < 8 hours 30 minutes
Pos
Name
Event
Year
Swim
T1
Bike
T2
Run
Total
1
Joe Skipper
Roth
2016
00:52:36
00:02:22
04:21:12
00:01:22
02:38:52
07:56:23
2
Will Clarke
Copenhagen
2016
00:47:46
00:02:08
04:24:33
00:01:48
02:43:16
07:59:31
3
Paul Amey
Arizona
2011
00:48:47
00:02:48
04:22:37
00:01:22
02:45:55
08:01:29
4
Tim Don
Brazil
2016
00:47:49
00:02:29
04:22:01
02:51:56
08:04:15
5
Tom Lowe
Barcelona
2013
00:59:22
00:02:02
04:23:11
00:01:56
02:41:19
08:07:50
6
Joe Skipper
New Zealand
2016
00:53:11
00:03:51
04:25:11
00:01:33
02:45:51
08:09:37
7
Tom Lowe
Austria
2011
00:52:06
00:03:16
04:29:04
00:02:15
02:44:47
08:11:31
8
Tom Lowe
Arizona
2010
00:56:37
00:02:53
04:22:51
00:01:12
02:48:11
08:11:44
9=
Stephen Bayliss
Roth
2012
00:47:24
00:01:30
04:32:15
00:01:02
02:50:52
08:13:01
9=
Ritchie Nicholls
Barcelona
2016
00:52:43
00:02:09
04:30:47
00:01:59
02:45:23
08:13:01
11
Stephen Bayliss
Austria
2008
00:46:03
00:01:44
04:39:38
00:01:55
02:44:33
08:13:53
12
Will Clarke
Frankfurt
2016
00:52:17
00:03:04
04:36:01
00:01:26
02:42:08
08:14:56
13
Julian Jenkinson
Jumme/Detern
1995
00:50:36
04:32:19
02:52:26
08:15:21
14
Spencer Smith
Brazil
2002
00:45:29
04:40:46
02:49:25
08:15:39
15
Joe Skipper
Texas
2015
00:55:09
00:03:45
04:10:07
00:02:50
03:04:35
08:16:26
16
Graeme Stewart
Barcelona
2013
00:59:19
00:01:57
04:22:57
00:01:56
02:50:33
08:16:42
17
Stephen Bayliss
Austria
2011
00:46:41
00:02:27
04:35:08
00:02:00
02:50:28
08:16:48
18
Stephen Bayliss
Austria
2009
00:47:32
00:01:43
04:32:32
00:01:59
02:53:20
08:17:06
19
Harry Wiltshire
Vichy
2016
00:50:24
00:02:11
04:31:33
00:02:02
02:51:04
08:17:14
20
Joe Skipper
Florida
2013
00:54:58
00:03:52
04:20:30
00:02:20
02:55:47
08:17:27
21
Paul Ambrose
Australia
2012
00:46:18
00:01:47
04:31:25
00:00:56
02:57:12
08:17:38
22
Scott Neyedli
Western Australia
2009
00:47:24
00:01:50
04:35:41
00:01:36
02:51:16
08:17:48
23
Stephen Bayliss
Western Australia
2007
00:48:18
04:35:09
02:54:23
08:17:51
24
Chrissie Wellington
Roth
2011
00:49:49
00:01:56
04:40:39
00:01:17
02:44:35
08:18:13
25
Stephen Bayliss
South Africa
2008
00:47:29
00:01:26
04:36:54
00:01:32
02:51:02
08:18:23
26
Chrissie Wellington
Roth
2010
00:50:28
00:01:56
04:36:33
00:01:25
02:48:54
08:19:13
27
Tom Lowe
Kalmar
2014
00:57:28
00:01:42
04:29:58
00:01:51
02:48:24
08:19:23
28
Julian Jenkinson
Almere
1999
00:54:19
04:34:11
02:52:00
08:20:30
29
Joe Skipper
Barcelona
2014
00:56:29
00:02:51
04:32:49
00:00:58
02:47:32
08:20:39
30
Spencer Smith
Florida
2001
00:49:26
00:02:10
04:36:28
00:01:22
02:52:07
08:21:30
31
Daniel Halksworth
Melbourne
2014
00:45:31
00:02:07
04:33:00
00:01:22
03:00:44
08:22:44
32
Spencer Smith
Arizona
2006
00:48:41
00:02:24
04:37:37
00:01:39
02:52:35
08:22:56
33
Simon Lessing
Lake Placid
2004
00:47:08
00:03:03
04:44:23
00:02:00
02:46:39
08:23:12
34
Graeme Stewart
Roth
2009
00:50:30
00:01:50
04:34:14
00:01:09
02:55:58
08:23:39
35
Joe Skipper
Barcelona
2012
00:54:08
00:02:17
04:28:14
00:00:40
02:58:38
08:23:57
36
Paul Ambrose**
Arizona
2009
00:48:15
00:02:42
04:34:43
00:01:09
02:58:07
08:24:54
37
Paul Amey
Texas
2013
00:54:54
00:02:03
04:29:07
00:02:44
02:56:18
08:25:06
38
Julian Jenkinson
Wolverhampton
1998
00:53:25
04:43:05
02:48:52
08:25:22
39
Ritchie Nicholls
Arizona
2013
00:48:47
00:02:17
04:39:37
00:01:07
02:54:01
08:25:49
40
Julian Jenkinson
Wolverhampton
2000
01:00:42
04:30:08
02:55:26
08:26:16
41
Graeme Stewart
Barcelona
2009
00:53:39
00:02:23
04:33:20
00:02:16
02:54:57
08:26:35
42
Paul Amey
Arizona
2008
00:50:23
00:02:37
04:46:16
00:01:12
02:46:53
08:27:20
43
Scott Neyedli
Port Macquarie
2010
00:44:35
00:01:58
04:42:06
00:01:32
02:57:47
08:27:58
44
Harry Wiltshire
Melbourne
2014
00:45:31
00:01:54
04:33:06
00:01:22
03:06:15
08:28:08
45
Nicholas Ward Munoz
Arizona
2013
00:54:04
00:02:42
04:36:11
00:01:49
02:53:35
08:28:21
46
Tom Lowe
Hawaii
2011
00:58:55
00:02:09
04:26:28
00:02:37
02:58:55
08:29:02
47
Scott Neyedli
Arizona
2011
00:51:37
00:02:37
04:32:15
00:01:29
03:01:07
08:29:03
48
Stephen Bayliss
Henley
2012
00:48:39
00:01:27
04:54:53
00:01:48
02:42:43
08:29:31
49
Paul Ambrose**
Louisville
2010
00:48:39
00:02:18
04:31:36
00:02:17
03:05:09
08:29:59
(** Paul Ambrose holds UK / AUS passports, and races for GB in ITU Long Distance events)
# of Iron Distance Finishes < 8 hours 30 minutes by athlete
Stephen Bayliss
7
Joe Skipper
6
Tom Lowe
5
Julian Jenkinson
4
Scott Neyedli
3
Spencer Smith
3
Paul Amey
3
Graeme Stewart
3
Paul Ambrose
3
Chrissie Wellington
2
Will Clarke
2
Harry Wiltshire
2
Ritchie Nicholls
2
Simon Lessing
1
Nicholas Ward Munoz
1
Daniel Halksworth
1
Tim Don
1
(17 athletes)
49
Fastest British Iron Distance Athletes (Best Time)
Rank
Athlete
Best Time
Event
1
Joe Skipper
07:56:23
Challenge Roth 2016
2
Will Clarke
07:59:31
Copenhagen 2016
3
Paul Amey
08:01:29
Arizona 2011
4
Tim Don
08:04:15
Brazil 2016
5
Tom Lowe
08:07:50
Challenge Barcelona 2013
6=
Stephen Bayliss
08:13:01
Challenge Roth 2012
6=
Ritchie Nicholls
08:13:01
Barcelona 2016
8
Julian Jenkinson
08:15:21
Jumme/Detern 1995
9
Spencer Smith
08:15:39
Brazil 2002
10
Graeme Stewart
08:16:42
Barcelona 2013
11
Harry Wiltshire
08:17:14
Vichy 2016
12
Paul Ambrose
08:17:39
Australia 2012
13
Scott Neyedli
08:17:48
Western Australia 2009
14
Chrissie Wellington
08:18:13
Roth 2011
15
Daniel Halksworth
08:22:44
Melbourne 2014
16
Simon Lessing
08:23:12
Lake Placid 2004
17
Nicholas Ward Munoz
08:28:21
Arizona 2013
British Male Iron Distance Record Progression
Commentary
Before we start - and just for absolute clarity - finishing times in any triathlon, and in Ironman/iron-distance in particular only tell part of a story. Courses are different, conditions are different and depending on who you believe, distances can vary too. Thus, work such as these listings is only part of an overall story. That said, times are a part of that story! Importantly, time is something that everyone 'gets', and being the fastest is a common theme among many sporting disciplines.
At the very top of the speed charts, the British record has been taking a bit of a bashing over the past few years. Tom Lowe broke the then British record of Stephen Bayliss in his first race at the distance in Arizona (2010), and then subsequently knocked a few seconds from that in his second attempt (Ironman Austria 2011). With his third Ironman resulting in the fastest British men's performance at Kona to date, you would have to think that Tom has the potential to go faster still - which he did at Challenge Barcelona 2013. Retiring from Ironman racing at the end of 2014 however, that is not going to happen now.
Paul Amey's second place at Ironman Arizona 2011 held the top spot on the list for almost five years- until the magic '8' barrier was broken by Joe Skipper at Challenge Roth 2016. How long will 7:56:23 remain on top of this listing? That is going to be very tough to beat. He didn't beat that record - but Will Clarke has now joined the 'Sub-8' club, with 7:59:31 for second place at Ironman Copenhagen 2016. He's now the second fastest iron-brit to date.
While no longer the British record holder, Stephen Bayliss does have the most 'sub 8:30s' on this list with seven - including a new personal best (8:13:01) for fifth place (and third in the ETU Champs) at Challenge Roth 2012.
Julian Jenkinson held the British iron-distance record for 13 years from 1995-2008, describing his race in Detern, Germany at the European Iron-Distance Championships as "physically I had the best race of my life. This coincided with undoubtedly the fastest ironman course in the world on a cool deathly calm day that time trialists dream about". After triathlon Julian had significant success in cycling time trials - in 2010 he won the National 12-hour Championships (with a whopping 292.49 miles), and collected the British Best All Rounder (BBAR) title. In March 2016 Julian tragically passed away, suffering a fatal heart attack whilst training.
And what of Chrissie Wellington? Her 8:18:13 time from Challenge Roth 2011 is currently the 24th fastest British time recorded and makes her the 14th fastest British athlete ever. Can she go even faster? Will she even race again at Ironman? No...
Scott Neyedli recorded his third best Ironman time at Arizona (2011) and returned to the Ironman podium as a winner at Ironman Wales 2013, while Graeme Stewart combines racing alongside the day job as a full-time cancer research scientist. That didn't stopped him regaining the Scottish iron-distance record at Challenge Barcelona 2013 - though that has now been taken over by Ritchie Nicholls.
Joe Skipper smashed his way to an 8:23:43 finish in his first attempt at the distance at Challenge Barcelona 2012, and he beat that time by finishing 10th (8:17:27) at Ironman Florida 2013 - despite a puncture and a penalty to serve. Skipper is certainly a star on the rise, his second place at Ironman Texas 2015 (North American Championships), was a massive breakthrough. As well as taking second place (with a monster 4:10:07 bike split in the process), it was also his fourth sub-8:30 iron-distance finish as well as a personal best time. A new year and another personal best, this time second at Ironman New Zealand 2016 with a time of 8:09:37, made him the fourth fastest British athlete ever - a list he now tops following his epic race at Challenge Roth 2016.
The latest additons to the list are, in his Ironman debut, Ritchie Nicholls and returning to Ironman after a couple of years of injury, Nichols Ward Munoz (both at Ironman Arizona 2013), while early 2014 has seen the addition of Daniel Halksworth and Harry Wiltshire at the Ironman Asia-Pacific Champs, Melbourne. Joe's desire to be the first Brit under the eight hour mark came under threat at Ironman Brasil 2016 where Tim Don, in his third Ironman race, clocked a very speedy 8:04:15 - the second fastest British time ever recorded (at the time... now pushed down to #4).
Tri247 Iron-Distance Statistics Library
Sub-9 iron ladies: a history the definitive list of sub-nine hour female iron distance finishes
Sub-8 iron men: a history the definitive list of sub-eight hour male iron distance finishes
British Ironman success: Ladies the definitive record of Ironman® podium finishes by British female athletes
British Ironman success: Men the definitive record of Ironman® podium finishes by British male athletes
British & Irish Iron Distance Records the fastest ironman distance times achieved for England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales
Fastest British Iron Ladies every sub-nine hour 15 minute iron-distance finish by British female athletes ever recorded.
Fastest British Iron Men every sub-eight hour 30 minute iron-distance finish by British male (and female...) athletes ever recorded
Do you believe there is a performance missing here? If so, please do let me know via editor@tri247.com.
↧
The Cervélo P5X: all you need to know
From Kona: the inside news on the Cervélo P5X launch
"The ultimate triathlon bike that’s tailored to athletes’ unique needs like never before"
That's how Cervelo describes its new bike - and we have been very fortunate to have been 'up close and personal' with the bike, for several days prior to its launch today in Kona. It is certainly very distinctive.
Richard Melik (he of bike fitting specialists www.freespeed.co.uk), has once again be 'our man in Kona' on this task, and has pulled together some must-read information for anyone wanting to find out more about the most anticipated bike launch in triathlon for many years.
>>> EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE CERVELO P5X
As well as going through all of the details of the bike - how it's put together, how it's taken apart, how it fits and even how you can pack it for travelling - he's also had several opportunities to ride the bike himself, over a variety of terrain and conditions. So, he's in a great position to talk about it.
>>> REVIEW: THE CERVELO P5X
Here a few images and animations to give you a flavour of the new bike, which is a radical departure for Cervélo from their past history.
For the full, in-depth reports and reviews on the new bike, click on the links above or visit our dedicated 2016 GBKona coverage IRONMAN World Championship site at kona.tri247.com.
Cervélo P5X Storage options
Visit: kona.tri247.com for much more from Hawaii
↧
↧
IRONMAN Wales on TV. Really!
IRONMAN Wales Channel 4 on Saturday 8th October
(Yes, it really will be this time... with an extra bonus event on Sunday)
If, like me, you switched on your DVR / Tivo / recording box of choice earlier in the week expecting to see IRONMAN Wales, you'll quickly have realised "that doesn't look like Tenby?"... and of course, it wasn't, as Channel 4 actually showed highlights from Triathlon Vitoria-Gasteiz instead. More sun, but less Phil Graves!
Anyway, we assured that IRONMAN Wales will be shown this Saturday at 07:05 (and at 08:05 on Ch+1).
It's also a double-bill weekend, as on Sunday morning (at which point, you may well still be watching the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona), they will also feature the Stoke on Trent European City of Sport Triathlon from Trentham Gardens. That will be aired on Sunday at 06:45 (and at Ch4+1 07.45)
↧
WIN with Skechers Performance
Predict the #KonaTop3 and WIN with Skechers Performance
WIN A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF SKECHERS PERFORMANCE SHOES
We've currently got a great competition running in conjunction with Skechers Performance - can you predcit the #KonaTop3?
Simple to enter, with three great prizes on offer, including a first prize of SIX pairs of Skechers Performance Shoes. Be quick though, you need to enter before 5pm (UK time) this Saturday (8th October), before the start of the IRONMAN World Championship which starts at 5.25pm.
Entry is simple, online, and will only take you 60 seconds! Remember, you've got to be in it to win it...
CLICK HERE TO ENTER
↧
TTH announce Swim Clinics
Tri Training Harder announce upcoming Swim Clinics
Every triathlete wants to get faster over the winter and concentrated time in a pool with a coach is a great chance to make some significant gains.
Coaching company Tri Training Harder (www.tritrainingharder.com) will be running several Swim Clinics during the Autumn and Winter months, perfectly timed to get your swim stroke in order ahead of you preparations for the 2017 season.
Swim clinics are a superb way for athletes to get some quality coaching at the beginning of the off-season, giving you ample opportunity to go away and put into practice what you learn.
Dates and Locations:
Saturday 29th October 2016 - Oratory Prep School, Goring, Berkshire
Sunday 4th December 2016 - Oratory Prep School, Goring, Berkshire
Saturday 5 November 2016 - Croydon High Sports Club (evenings)
Saturday 3 December 2016 - Croydon High Sports Club (evenings)
What to Expect: DETAILS
Pricing:
A number of options are available from £40 to £150.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE SWIM CLINICS
↧
More Pages to Explore .....
