In its fifth year the Markel Castle Triathlon Series is clocking up record numbers for the five weekend events throughout 2013, with quadruple the number of competitors signed up as at this time last year. The 2013 events will see an even wider spectrum of competitors taking part thanks to the surge in family and children’s participation and the new partnership with the military division, BattleBack Paratriathlon team.
“One of our ambitions is to offer a race suitable and tailored for everyone. With such stunning settings, and an awesome sport, it only seems right that the triathlon and venues can be enjoyed by all,” explained Brian Adcock, The Markel Castle Triathlon Series Race Director.
He continued, “The 2012 Paralympics was a huge inspiration and the news that the Paralympics in Rio will include triathlon for the first time in history is a huge coup. The BattleBack Paratriathlon team launched in 2012 with the aim of staging more races and opportunities for injured service men and women. The team at BattleBack Paratriathlon will be working with us to tailor our UK events for paratriathlete accessibility.”
The Markel Castle Triathlon Series is increasingly well known for the beautiful venues and scenic grounds, held at iconic castles across Europe, promising a high quality event and race for all levels, from first-timers and children, to elite athletes. Last year the series attracted over 8,000 competitors and this year it is offering even more to appeal to fans and new followers.
The 2013 series highlights include:
New half iron distance – The Gauntlet
The Castle Tri organisers have thrown down ‘The Gauntlet’ by launching a new half iron/middle distance triathlon (1.9K/90K/21K) in 2013. The Hever Castle Triathlon (Sunday 29 September) and The Château de Chantilly Triathlon (Sunday 25 August) are seen as natural venues for a long distance race offering motivating and inspirational courses.
Prize fund
The annual prize pot is £12,000 for Olympic distance competitors. Additional prize money has been put up this year to reward The Gauntlet’s top competitors; €5,000 prize fund at The Château de Chantilly Triathlon, and £5,000 prize fund at The Hever Castle Triathlon. Every competitor receives a medal with trophies and prizes will be given to winners of other categories.
Largest children’s triathlon in Europe
The Hever Castle Triathlon hosted ‘the largest children’s triathlon in Europe’ in 2012 with over 800 children aged between 8 and 15 taking part. The series offers a unique setting where all ages and levels can race at the same event. All races are open to individuals and relay teams. Not only do competitors enjoy a perfect race setting, spectators can cheer their family and friends whilst enjoying the castle grounds alongside food and activities for all the family.
All for a good cause
Every year the Castle Tri organisers are humbled by the tremendous fundraising efforts and are proud to say that the events were a platform to raise over £100,000 for charity last year. This year the series continues to support local charities and the national charity, Help for Heroes.
Five stunning venues
The 2013 event calendar includes Lough Cutra Castle, Ireland (26 May – Bank holiday weekend), Cholmondeley Castle (23 June), Castle Howard (21 July), Château de Chantilly (25 August – Bank holiday weekend) and the flagship event being filmed by Channel 4 at Hever Castle (28/29 September). Hever Castle also hosts the Evening Sprint Series (12 June / 3 July), perfect for a mid-week race or pre-season training.
www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk
