The Wilmslow Triathlon, which took place on Sunday 12 May 2013 in Greater Manchester, UK, for the seventh year, has again shown its growing popularity with a record number of competitors taking part and a strong presence from triathlon clubs across the region.
A sprint distance race organised by Xtra Mile Events and referred to as ‘the biggest and best sprint triathlon in Greater Manchester and beyond’ the Wilmslow Triathlon is billed as the perfect event for novices as well as experienced athletes. As an early season race, the event also helps take an early view on the popularity of triathlon each season and those prepared to brave the UK weather!
In fact on race day, the local Cheshire weather conditions made for some great racing. Based at the Wilmslow Leisure Centre, the 400m swim took place in the 25m indoor pool with the transition area as well as the start and finish on the local cricket pitch. The picturesque, mainly flat 24.2K cycle ride took the 596 competitors around the Cheshire countryside before finishing with a 6.3K run around Wilmslow’s leafy roads.
More than 45% of the competitors were novices and had never taken part in a triathlon before.
Alex Lawton from Manchester Triathlon Club take this year’s title in a time of 01:07:19; and Rebecca Brand, also from Manchester Triathlon Club won the women’s race in a time of 01:20:00. (World Series Renault 3.5 racing driver Oliver Webb was also amongst the competitors, making his triathlon debut at Wilmslow.)
Race Organiser Simon Hill said “I am pleased that the growing popularity and media exposure for triathlon is reflecting onto grass roots level, with a record number of athletes taking part in this year’s Wilmslow Triathlon, lots of which beginners and new to the sport.
“I would like to express a big thank you to everyone competing and supporting; and to all those involved in making the Wilmslow Triathlon a success which includes the marshals from Poynton and Timperley Lacrosse Clubs, Dean Row Girl Guides, 6th Wilmslow Scouts and Alderley Edge Explorer Scouts, Scarab Tri Club as well as the BTF Referees and Manchester Medical Services.”
Sponsors of the Wilmslow Triathlon 2013 included Up & Running (Official Sports Retail Partner), Edinburgh Bicycle Co-operative (Official Bicycle Retail Partner), Starley Bikes (Official Specialist Bike Brand), USN Ultimate Sports Nutrition (Official Nutrition Partner), Zone3 (Official Wetsuit Partner), Clif Bar (Official Energy Bar Partner), Aftershokz (Official Headphone Partner) and Athlete Matters (Official Physio and Rehab Partner).
