The long distance triathlon scene in the UK is flourishing; and The Bastion, which is billed as one of the biggest triathlon challenges in the country is now open for general entry. The organizing team at the Castle Triathlon Series note that long course athletes should get set to enter quickly as ‘The Bastion is one of the hottest races on the mass-participation sporting calendar.’
The 2016 Bastion long-distance triathlon is once again set to take place from the backdrop of Hever Castle in Kent and is now open for entry, with 25% off (entry is priced at £275) for those who enter early. The Bastion will take place on the 10 July 2016.
Over the last two years, competitors have come from across the UK and a number of countries overseas to take on a challenging course with a stunning backdrop.
The 3.8K swim at the Italianate loggia in Hever Castle starts the day, taking competitors down the length of the main lake before passing the Japanese teahouse and heading into a scenic, river section.
The 180K three-loop bike course represents one of the toughest iron-distance routes on offer in the UK, with around 2,800m of ascent covering ‘areas of outstanding beauty’ in the High Weald area of Kent, before passing through Hartfield and over the Ashdown Forest.
The marathon covers a four lap run route mainly an off road trail run, circumnavigating the two estates of Hever Castle and Chiddingstone Castle before a finish in front of the Hever Castle drawbridge that once gave passage to King Henry VIII.
Athletes are treated to an event village to top off the whole experience, with live bands playing throughout the day, a climbing wall, archery, catering, bike support and more. Participants cross the finish line in front of Hever Castle with ‘a medal, t-shirt and memories that will last a lifetime.’
In addition to the long-distance triathlon, as in 2015, the event will also run concurrently with a long distance aquabike and open water swim events.
www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk
