The tri season has started to get into full swing, with early season Sprint races continuing to build momentum in the UK. The 2013 Banbury Triathlon celebrated its 17th year this Sunday, attracting a crowd of triathletes to the historic Oxfordshire town.
Managed by Never Second Sports Events, the event comprised of a 750m pool swim, 20K bike ride and 5K run, following a scenic and undulating route across the surrounding countryside.
The race start was at the newly renovated Woodgreen Leisure Centre open-air swimming pool in Banbury, where athletes were set off in 30-second intervals. Supporters lined the poolside and cheered on their friends and family, enjoying the morning sunshine and warm weather.
Brian Butler, Event Director of Never Second Sport Events said ‘We are thrilled with the response to this year’s Banbury Triathlon. We would like to extend our thanks to local estate agents Wigwam, and Horton Physiotherapy for kindly sponsoring the event, as well as Cherwell District Council and Parkwood Leisure for providing valuable support to the team.
“We also welcomed a group of wonderful volunteers who ensured the safe running of the event, providing valuable help on the day. The open-air pool is the perfect facility for our race and we could not have asked for better weather. Congratulations to everyone that took part!’
The bike course weaved out of Banbury and through the neighbouring villages, taking in several long climbs and multiple fast descents. The 5K run comprised an ‘out and back’ route, and it was all uphill for the first 2.5K, before a smooth and quick downhill sprint to the race finish.
Of the strong local triathletes taking their place on the start line, European Age Group Champion, Kim Shaw said “What a race – I have taken part in the Banbury Triathlon for many years and enjoy competing in an event right on my doorstep. Triathlon is a growing sport, and it was great to see so many first time athletes there yesterday – raring to give it a go.”
For those who live in Oxfordshire or fancy exploring the area and their next challenge, the team at Never Second Sports Events never like to stand still. A number of other events are scheduled across 2013:
- Sibford Super Sprint Triathlon – Saturday 6 July 2013
- Aquaman and Half Aquaman – Saturday 10 August 2013
- Oxfordshire ‘Lungbuster’ Duathlon – Sunday 20th October 2013
www.neversecondsportsevents.com
