It was a tough day for Lucy Gossage at IRONMAN UK on Sunday, but the Queen of the Bolton course came out the winner once again,
We spoke to her the morning after to get the inside track on her fourth victory at the race.
Video
Simon Ward: 100 days to Kona
Simon Ward is heading to Kona
More than 22 years after his first IRONMAN race in Penticton, Canada, Simon Ward will be racing at the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii on Saturday 14th October 2017.
100 days to go marks the start of his countdown.
Lucy Charles talks IRONMAN Lanzarote victory
Watch and listen to Lucy Charles reflect on her fantastic victory at the Club La Santa IRONMAN Lanzarote on Saturday. Interview by David Pearce (www.different-perspective.co.uk)
Today a dream was achieved at the world's hardest Ironman @clublasanta @IMLanzarote 🎉🏆Thanks for all the support out there today! 😘 pic.twitter.com/s2nyyxihj2
— Lucy Charles-Barclay (@LucyAnneCharles) May 20, 2017
(Check out David’s image gallery on Lucy’s race HERE)
Watch Non Stanford win the Chengdu ITU Triathlon World Cup
Chengdu ITU Triathlon World Cup, China – Sunday 7th May 2017
FINAL: 400m / 10km / 2.5km
WOMEN
1st – Non Stanford (GBR) – 29:36
2nd – Laura Lindemann (GER) – 29:40
3rd – Kirsten Kasper (USA) – 29:42
6th – Sophie Coldwell (GBR) – 29:53
11th – Jessica Learmonth (GBR) – 30:00
12th – Lucy Hall (GBR) – 30:03
Video profile: John McAvoy – Bank Robber turned Ironman
Trans World Sport profile John McAvoy
Earlier this year we reviewed the book, Redemption – From Iron Bars to Ironman, the story of John McAvoy. At the time, we said:
Every now and then you hear people say they had a book so good that they couldn’t put it down. Well, that’s what happened to me when I got a sent a press copy of the book, Redemption.
John’s life has recently been featured in this extended Trans World Sport profile, a story of which John himself says, “sport saved my life”.
Talking Pop-Up City Tri with Castle Triathlon Series founder Brian Adcock
Industry chat with Brian Adcock – Castle Triathlon Series founder
From one race at Hever Castle in 2009, the Castle Triathlon Series (www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk), has developed into one of the biggest names in the UK Triathlon events market, with several races all over the country – and now in Ireland and France too.
Last week they hosted the second Pop-Up City Triathlon in the financial district of Canary Wharf (full report below), and we took a visit to check out the action – and also to catch-up with founder, Brian Adcock, to talk about that event, the growth development of the Castle Series and the state of the events industry generally.
We also found out that we may well be seeing a new event in Scotland in 2018… watch and listen to the interview for more details on that one.
Hundreds of city workers sweated it out as they competed against banking rivals in Montgomery Square, Canary Wharf last week (24-27 April) in a staged event, which included 10 tonnes of water in an endless pool. The ‘Pop-Up City Triathlon is organised by Castle Triathlon Series in partnership with Novotel London Canary Wharf, Macmillan Cancer Support and KPMG, creating a huge triathlon buzz with corporates.
Lets Do This, the endurance sports listings website, took the winning slot on the competitive leader board covering an impressive distance of 4595m as their team swam for three minutes in an endless pool, cycled for four minutes on a cycle ergometer and ran for three minutes on a treadmill.
The event saw the top three teams battle for the winning spot in a Grand Final that was exceptionally close. See the full results here.
There was an impressive selection of teams taking part in the event including last year’s winner Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Lloyds, Barclays and many more. The teams were made up of three individuals, competing in one discipline each and representing the same company.
Nick Tyler, who led the team from Adelphi Capital (asset investment managers) to third place, said “Adelphi Capital were delighted to enter a team into this year’s Pop Up City Triathlon and to beat some very large City organisations to finish third in the Grand Final. We are very proud of our team of Gemma Hearn, Emmanuel Renard and Doug Bendle and will definitely be back next year.”
Lets Do This received a winning trophy, a £1,000 charity gift which they have donated to Macmillan Cancer Support, and each team member will also receive many more prizes including free races, massage, training plans and kit.
Three highest recorded distances:
- Lara Nyman from Credit Suisse covered 258m in 3 minutes in the endless swimming pool
- Doug Bendle from Adelphi Capital had the winning distance on the bike covering with 3.7km
- Sam Browne from Lets Do This ran the winning distance of 900m in 3 mins
Race Director, Brian Adcock comments: “The event was hailed a huge success from all those taking part, spectators and partners. We successfully transported triathlon to the door-step of the corporates offices and celebrated the sport.”
The Castle Triathlon Series offer the opportunity for companies to have their own bespoke wave at their six-triathlon festivals hosted at iconic castles and stunning grounds. They also offer a hospitality tent with delectable food and drink for company members for both pre- and post-race refreshment. This year will see BBC Worldwide and the Big Four Accountancy Firms embracing the Hever Castle Triathlon for a corporate triathlon event.
Jonathon Riall on the development of Paratriathlon
“I’m too young for a lifetime achievement award!”
At just 32 years of age, Jonathon Riall has already successfully lead the British team to the debut of triathlon at the Paralympic Games.
The Head Coach of the British Paratriathlon Team, Jonny was been part of that journey since the beginning, working for British Triathlon since leaving University and soon after that becoming the guiding light for Paratriathlon in Great Britain.
His often unseen contribution to the sport in this country is huge, but was recognised this week when he was announced at the winner of the Jane Tomlinson Award for Outstanding Contribution to Triathlon in the annual 220 Awards.
Lauren Steadman: aiming for more than just triathlon this season
World Champion in 2014 and 2015. European Champion for the last four years. Paralympic Games Silver medallist in 2016. Lauren Steadman is one of the headline names in British Paratriathlon racing. Just this week she was announced as the Women’s Paratriathlete of the Year in the annual 220 Awards.
I spoke to Lauren in central London on Thursday, where she was taking part in a launch event for the new Garmin Forerunner 935.
While she is targeting future success in triathlon, she also has another big target to achieve this year…
Caroline Livesey: IRONMAN Texas report and analysis
Caroline Livesey has been our ‘Brit Abroad’ for IRONMAN Texas, which saw some very speedy racing take place on Saturday in The Woodlands. You can see our round-up on the race HERE.
Having talked us through her preparations ahead of the event (see links below if you missed them), it is now time for Caroline to check-in and tell us how it all went from her perspective. Which, was rather well!
Big thanks to Caroline for providing us with her insight for this event and to husband Mark for sorting out all of the video content!
(Previous IRONMAN Texas updates from Caroline: PART ONE | PART TWO)
Emma Pallant talks Challenge Gran Canaria victory
You can read the extended race report from Saturday’s Gloria Challenge Mogán Gran Canaria HERE – which saw a fantastic finish in the women’s Pro race.
The BMC-Etixx Pro Triathlon team member talks, post-race, about her experience in Gran Canaria.
Thanks to James Mitchell (www.jamesmitchell.eu) for the images and video.
Caroline Livesey: IRONMAN Texas pre-race update #2
With just 24 hours before IRONMAN Texas, our ‘Brit Abroad’ blogger for this race, Caroline Livesey, checks in with another video update before race day.
(You can see part one HERE)
Caroline Livesey: IRONMAN Texas pre-race update #1
Caroline Livesey has agreed to be our ‘Brit Abroad’ for this weekend’s IRONMAN Texas, which also hosts the North American Championship event (meaning more prize money, more Kona points… and thus a top quality entry). We’ve also had a pre-race chat with Will Clarke.
Already this year we’ve followed Kimberly Morrison at IRONMAN 70.3 Dubai and Nikki Bartlett at IRONMAN South Africa, hoping to bring you a bit closer to the ‘inside track’ on how Britain’s best are preparing to race on the world stage.
In this first video update, Caroline looks back on some significant changes made over the winter to her own training and work environment, what motivates her to train and race as a professional and what she has been up to in the first few days of her time in The Woodlands.
More to come from Caroline later this week.
The TRIMORE Syros Triathlon – Greece: find out more…
Earlier in the year at the Triathlon Show: London (www.triathlonshowlondon.co.uk), one of the exhibitors was a relatively new race based in Greece, the Syros Triathlon (www.syrostriathlon.gr/en). We spoke to Anna from the organising team about what the event is Syros has to offer.
Taking place from 15th to 18th June this year, the second edition of this event will host Sprint and Olympic distance events, kids triathlons, open water swimming races, 5km and 10km runs… and an obstacle swimming challenge (more on that below!).
With a wide range of independent events taking place now within Europe, alongside the more commonly attended IRONMAN and Challenge Family series races, if you are looking for an alternative to combine sport with a holiday, then perhaps the Syros Triathlon would be a great option for you. The full 2017 event schedule can be found HERE.
2016 Winner – Alice Hector
There is a British connection too; British Pro athlete Alice Hector was the winner of the Syros Triathlon on its debut, and highly recommends the experience:
“Syros Triathlon is a real ‘destination’ race. It’s a small but perfectly-maintained Greek island three hours ferry ride from Athens. It sounds like a lot of travel, but the ferries are massive and actually very relaxing! Once you arrive, the town is immaculate: you walk on marble pavements, eat the freshest food and are surrounded by crystal water. You can cycle around the island easily in an hour, taking in its several secluded beaches and quiet back roads.
“The town shuts down for the race and it’s a full weekend of festivities, with children’s races, motivational and educational speakers, and a fantastic party-style presentation.
“Well worth a visit, and making a holiday out of it too!”
Highlights from the inaugural 2016 edition of Syros Triathlon
TRIMORE Syros Triathlon 2017 Preview
Find out more at www.syrostriathlon.gr/en
Women in Triathlon: The Giant Store special
The Giant Store St. Paul’s (www.giant-stpauls.co.uk), recently hosted a series of five triathlon special evenings from January through to March, which we’ve been covering here on Tri247. The final event of the series, and perhaps the best attended of all, was a Women in Triathlon special, held on Thursday 16th March.
Here we provide the full length video of the excellent panel discussion from the evening, which covered a wide range of topics, including fears about getting in to triathlon, experiences, gaining confidence and training tips.
The event was superbly hosted by Helen Murray (one of the voices of the Oxygenaddict Triathlon Podcast). We even had a live link in store to bring in input from Australia!
The Panel
A fantastic panel of athletes had been pulled together, from a Commonwealth Games medal winner, Kona Age-Group Champion, Britain’s oldest female Ironman finisher and more, to provide a wide topic of conversation and inputs from all perspectives. You can follow them all on Twitter via these links:
- Catherine Jameson – @CatPickthall
- Jennifer Tait – @SlowcoachCo
- Edwina Brocklesby – @eddiebrocklesby
- Georgie Rutherford – @Trigrr
- Heather Sellars – @heathersellars
- Jane Hanson – @JaneHansom
- Ruth Purbrook – @Rastle50
- Helen Murray – @Helenfmurray
- Gillian Sanders – @gillcurrsanders
- Stef Hanson – @witsupcom
Meet Mary Wittenberg, Global CEO Virgin Sport
We are a great believer if you are going to do something you should do it with passion, and for Mary Wittenberg, the Global CEO of Virgin Sport (https://uk.virginsport.com), her passion has been running.
Starting off as a competitive marathon runner, then on to a successful career in Law, a return to sport saw her lead the New York Road Runners for 17 years. As well as being the first female Race Director of a major international marathon she also set up the World Marathon Majors Series.
We were fortunate to chat with Mary in London this week, a month before her latest venture with the Festival of Fitness, which will be held in Hackney on the 30th April. Paul Shanley caught up with Mary to find out more about her early career and what made her join Virgin Sport.
There is still time to enter the Hackney Festival of Fitness, which features the Hackney Half Marathon, at https://uk.virginsport.com/event/hackney-2017
You can find Mary and Virgin Sport on Twitter on these links:
Red Bull Neptune Steps 2017: Highlights
Looking for a different challenge in 2018? Check out these video highlights from the Red Bull Neptune Steps 2017, held last weekend in Glasgow.
Plenty of triathletes – Marc Austin, Mark Buckingham, Edward Castro, Gordon Benson and Con Doherty among them – took part and finished in the top ten, with Marc taking the honours with third place overall.
Full report on the 2017 event HERE.
Mental preparation for injuries, training and racing
Two-time Olympian (and park run record holder…!), Andy Baddeley talks about his approaches to mental preparation in relation to injuries, training and racing at the recent Giant Store St. Paul’s Triathlon evening special event in Central London.
Andy Baddeley is a double Olympian and former world number one over the mile.
He is an Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth finalist at 1500m. A Cambridge University graduate, he has also battled a serious heart condition, and has spoken openly about the depression he suffered as a result of a potentially career-ending injury. With the help of key members of the Performance Team, he returned to competition at elite level, and is ideally placed to help aspiring athletes to achieve their goals.
Race Force announce 2017 partnerships
Race Force (www.raceforce.co.uk) is delighted to announce new partners KitBrix, PedalCover, Zone3, dryrobe® and Giant Store St Paul’s to join their existing partner team for the 2017 season.
Kate Linsley, Founder & MD of Race Force says:
”Partnerships for us mean exactly that. We don’t just personally endorse these products and services but we collaborate with these awesome teams to help each other improve and grow. We like to be inspired by the people we work with and each of our partners are innovative while maintaining high standards of quality through to delivery. All our partner companies are British, owner led and with a Triathlon heritage which we feel is very important and unique in an industry becoming more and more commercial and less about the sport“
PedalCover
PedalCover, the home insurance provider designed for triathletes, has been chosen by Race Force as its preferred insurance partner for 2017.
The policy, which has been recognised by several industry awards, provides cover for your bike worldwide, when in transit, when competing and when in transition making it ideal for Race Force’s clients. Not only that but their race cancellation policy is a must have.
Darren Thomas, founder, said: “PedalCover is a product of years of industry experience which shows that combining bikes within a home insurance policy can bring about huge savings compared to a standalone bike policy as provided by other in the market.”
Working in partnership with Race Force, PedalCover will offer Race Force’s clients 10 per cent off an annual home insurance policy and 20 per cent off travel policies. Race Force will offer PedalCover’s clients up to £20 off the full-price Bike Bus Pro service.
KitBrix
KitBrix is a robust kit bag system inspired by the military for high performing athletes and teams. The bag is modular and can connect to other KitBrix to save you time in transit and travel. It is designed to ‘stand up’ giving you complete visibility of your entire pack list, making things easy to find reducing the stress levels on the lead up to race day.
“Being on the road all summer, constantly switching between our fleet of vehicles, these bags have been life changing for us” Kate goes on to say “ Three KitBrix zipped together are the correct dimensions for our Bike Bus Pro athletes and they stack perfectly.
Founder of KitBrix, Rob Aldous said: “There is clear synergy with what KitBrix provides an athlete and what Race Force do on a daily basis. KitBrix is all about efficiency and logistical support and I hope that we can add tangible value to the Race Force team, support crew and athletes in 2017 and beyond.”
You can purchase KitBrix with it’s own Race Force Logo direct from the Kitbrix site here https://www.kitbrix.co.uk/shop/. They come in Race Force colours Blue, Grey and Red. #Keepittogether #TogetherWeRace
Zone3
“This was a brand we were seeing more and more of our athletes and Team Race Force themselves wearing. After working with the team on a few events their knowledge & experience in Triathlon and understanding of the individuals needs was evident and they were keen to learn more through our athletes” said Kate
Zone3 wetsuit products are one of the leading triathlon brands in the world. With a number of high profile professionals on the ITU and Ironman circuit.
Zone3 founder, James lock said, “It is fantastic to be partnering with Race Force who truly understand the triathlon market. The ability to remove the stress from racing and make athletes at ease in their racing environment compliments the Zone3 brand and meets the needs of the triathlete. Taking part in an Ironman is a huge challenge and a daunting task. Having Race Force there to help athletes prepare, relax and enjoy the pre-race build up is a massive benefit. Zone3 shares this mentality and will be working hard to ensure their athletes are benefiting from the highest performance kit on the market to help take one more worry away.”
Team Race Force will be racing in Zone3 this season as well as offering demo suits for testing at events, season wetsuit hire and great discounts for Race Force athletes.
dryrobe®
dryrobe® Ltd are excited to announce their partnership with Race Force
dryrobe® Ltd has signed as an official partner of Race Force, the triathlon company passionate about revolutionising the race experience and making triathlon accessible for everyone. This partnership will give members of Race Force the opportunity to find out more about dry robe® the world’s leading outdoor change robe.
“This is a brand we are going to love working with” Kate Linsley Race Force founder said.
dry robe® is a weatherproof, outdoor change robe with enough space to pull your arms in through the sleeves to get changed inside it. For triathletes a dryrobe® is an absolutely essential piece of kit. You can get a wetsuit, swim or tri kit on or off easily (staying warm and decent in the process), and keep it on once you’re dressed. Each dryrobe® has deep soft-lined pockets and a zip-up internal pocket for car keys, MP3 player or a phone. Leave it on over your clothing or wetsuit and reuse multiple times throughout the day without the dry robe® ever feeling wet or cold.
Kate Linsley said, “Our swim coached activity plays an essential part in making our customers more comfortable with the swim leg of the triathlon. We spend a lot of time in and out of the water with our customers during the lead up to race day. The dryrobe® will allow our host to keep protected from the elements, stay warm and keep focused on our customers”
Kate continued, “We are really excited to announce this new partnership with dryrobe®. I feel that the product is of exceptional quality and will help our customers with their race preparation. The weather is so unpredictable so having a dryrobe® in your kit gives you the confidence to train in the worst weather, knowing you don’t have to look for the nearest changing room! For triathletes confidence is everything, the more Race Force can reduce stress, build confidence and get the athletes relaxed before race day, the better our customers perform.”
Race Force host will have there own custom dryrobe® that will be able to be purchased by customers direct from the dryrobe® online shop.
Giant Store St. Paul’s
Giant St Pauls may be based in Central London however their online store www.H2Gear.co.uk offers next day delivery, easy returns and is very different to your average online retailer as one phone connects you straight to the shop floor where their friendly and very knowledgeable team can help you. They run a very flexible demo bike service and are offering this to athletes wanting to ride Giant for their event.
Kate goes on to say, “The Giant Propel is a favorite with Race Force athletes generally taking up half of our racking system at each event however the The Giant Trinity was like a mythical creature that would grace us with its presence from time to time but I’m excited to say we will have one with us all season”
Race Force athletes will have access to the Trinity, Propel and TCR to try at events and exclusive event-only discounts should you want to go on and make a purchase.
Giant St Pauls are emerging into the Triathlon market as a different kind of Triathlon retailer. The team have been running a Pop Up Triathlon store stocking the best in brands across wetsuits, bikes, wheels and shoes as well as a series of informative and interactive events featuring award winning experts, Olympians and professionals across the three disciplines. Tri247 has covered the feature and the excellent content from previous events can be found here.
Their next event will be covering Women in Triathlon on Thursday 16th March. Full line up details can be found HERE.
These new partners join an established partner team that Race Force has been building on since our first season back in 2011 and include:
EDCO Wheels – http://www.edco-wheels.co.uk / @edco_wheels
On-Running – https://www.on-running.com/en-gb / @on_running
Bloc Eyewear – https://www.bloceyewear.com / @bloceyewear
SIS – Science in Sport – www.scienceinsport.com / @ScienceinSport
Total Tri Training – https://totaltritraining.com Coaching plans, 1-2-1 coaching, training weekends and event coaching
Bonk Athletic – http://bonkathletic.com High quality casual & tech T’s and our famous Race Force Hoodies
Motiva – http://www.motivagroup.co.uk / @MotivaGroup
And event Teams from:
Always Aim High – http://alwaysaimhighevents.com
Xtra Mile Events – http://www.xtramileevents.com
Deva Triathlon – http://events.chestertri.org.uk/deva-tri/
Long Course Weekend Tenby – http://www.longcourseweekend.com
The seven most common medical issues in endurance athletes
Are these common medical symptoms impacting you?
One of the speakers at the recent Giant Store St. Paul’s ‘Run Special‘ evening was Dr John Rogers, the Chief Medical Officer of British Triathlon.
John’s presentation on the evening focussed on the seven most common medical issues he consistently sees in endurance athletes, including triathletes.
Even if you are ‘healthy’ now, this is well worth a watch to spot potential issues and symptoms before they became major problems.
Dr John Rogers is the British Triathlon Chief Medical Officer and founder of The Performance Team.
He is a specialist sports medicine consultant who also works with British Athletics and Team GB. He is a former N. Ireland international middle distance runner and a Professor of Sport and Exercise Medicine at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Karl Alexander targets Outlaw Half “three-peat”
“I’m looking to three-peat at the Outlaw Half Nottingham”
At last weeks Triathlon Special at the Giant Store St. Paul’s, we spoke to long-time Tri247 contributor, Karl Alexander. A member of the UK ERDINGER Alkoholfrei team, Karl was on hand all evening to keeps all the attendees refreshed through the evening!
A specialist over the Middle and Long distances, the Outlaw series of triathlons from OSB Events has become the central pillar of his season – and will be once again in 2017.
Last year Karl retained his title at the Outlaw Half Nottingham after an epic race against Simon George, Karl only taking the lead practically in sight of the finish line. Check out the picture below for evidence… He will be back, and he wants to win it again!
Check out his interview above to find our more about his plans for 2017 and what he has been up to over the winter to be fitter and faster than ever before.
For more on the Outlaw Triathlon events, visit www.osbevents.com.
You can re-visit our report from the 2016 Outlaw Half Nottingham HERE, and read Karl’s own words from his perspective HERE.
Great Swim adds Great SwimRun for 2017
Great Swim Series at Giant Store St. Paul’s 2017
The SwimRun format catches the attention of the mass participation giant
The Giant Store St. Paul’s (www.giant-stpauls.co.uk/en-GB/) in central London have been hosting some great (and FREE…) Triathlon Evening specials in recent weeks (check out the full schedule and upcoming events HERE).
The recent ‘swim special’ included a short talk from Alex Jackson from the Great Swim Series (www.greatrun.org/great-swim/) about their hugely popular series of mass-participation swims. The Great North Swim in Lake Windermere attracts over 10,000 swimmers alone.
What was particularly interesting is that the increasingly popular ÖTILLÖ-inspired SwimRun format has also attracted their attention – with Great North SwimRun a new addition on 10th June. Full details HERE.
Full presentation from Alex in the video above – with further details on the SwimRun here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUwYCChCj3U
Full coverage from the Giant Store St. Paul’s Swim Special Evening
- Triathlon wetsuits 2017: Zone3
- Triathlon wetsuits 2017: HUUB
- Triathlon wetsuits 2017: blueseventy
- Triathlon swimming made simple: Steven Lord
- Great Swim introduce Great SwimRun for 2017
- How to improve your Front Crawl technique: Swim for Tri
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS ON UPCOMING GIANT STORE TRIATHLON EVENTS
Live BBC coverage for new Mixed Relay Cup Nottingham
Nottingham to host new British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup in September 2017
Live BBC TV, the Brownlee brothers PLUS international stars heading to Nottingham
2nd September 2017 will see the first British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup hosted on the banks of the River Trent in Nottingham.
Launched on Thursday – in the company of Storm Doris, which prevented this Editor from making up the M1 in person! – this is a brand new event that I’ve known amount for the past three months, but is now officially out there. Very welcome it is in my eyes.
Held over the popular Mixed Relay format (for reference, the Mixed Relay event at the Commonwealth Games gained significantly more TV viewers than either of the individual races), the event will be delivered by the reliable OSB Events team, one week after the long-standing Club Relays Championships held just a few miles away at Holme Pierrepont. With the multi-award winning Outlaw Triathlon on their books and almost a ‘home’ in Nottingham, the event is in good hands.
Credit where credit is due…
With a significant push for the addition of the Mixed Relay format in to the Olympic schedule at Tokyo 2020, I feel this is a great addition to the calendar. The demise of the British Triathlon Super Series in 2015 has to some degree reduced the profile of domestic ‘elite’ racing, but the announcement of a new, UK, exciting event with prime-time terrestrial LIVE TV coverage is a very welcome move.
The National Governing Body gets – rightly at times – plenty of critics when an event doesn’t deliver to expectations (Windsor Duathlon 2016, WTS Leeds Age-Group 2016) – but typically not a similar level of recognition when things go well (Tri Liverpool for example).
As always, the proof is in the pudding – but with the Race Director of Tri Liverpool now leading the organisation of Leeds and the reliable team from OSB Events delivering the Mixed Relay Cup in Nottingham, 2017, I’d say that lots of very positive decisions have been made.
Here are the full details of the launch of the Mixed Relay Cup.
Nottingham to host 2017 Mixed Relay Cup
Four Olympic medals may already adorn the walls of the Brownlee family home, but Britain’s trailblazing triathlon brothers want more – two apiece, to be precise, at Tokyo 2020. But, that will only happen should Olympic organisers agree to the inclusion of a mixed relay event to the programme in four years’ time.
It is an addition the Brownlees would welcome with open arms, having already been crowned Commonwealth champions at Glasgow 2014 alongside Jodie Stimpson and Vicky Holland.
And for the brothers, should their hopes come to fruition, it could signal a new era for the sport at every level.
“I’d absolutely love to see it in the Olympic programme, I think triathlon deserves more than the individual medals it has at the moment,” said two-time Olympic gold medallist Alistair.
“I’m a bit biased but I think it is a fantastic sport, and it embodies so much of what the Olympics is about.
“It involves three sports, but it’s also mixed gender and great to watch, so I think it is a true Olympic discipline and it would be fantastic to see it in Tokyo.”
Jonny, who won bronze and silver in London and Rio respectively, added: “As an athlete, it gives us another chance to win a medal.
“But aside from that, I think it’s what the Olympic ideals are all about. It’s exciting to watch as a spectator, it’s short and fast which I think is important for the Olympics, and also, it’s fun for the athlete.
“For selfish reasons, it would give triathlon more exposure at the Olympics, which I think it deserves.”
While a decision is expected in July this year, the brothers will be showcasing the sport in all its glory regardless come September 2 in the inaugural British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup in Nottingham.
The race, featuring elite team relays with international stars plus teams from across the UK and a Great Britain Under-23 and Junior squad, will incorporate the city’s Victoria Embankment and Trent Bridge.
Live TV and large crowds expected
And with an expected crowd of 20,000 spectators and a live BBC television audience watching the action unfold, Jonny insists there is no better way to capitalise on the sport’s ever-growing popularity.
“I can’t wait to get involved, I think it’s a great format of the sport, it’s exciting to race in, exciting to watch, and I think it’s just what the sport needs,” he said.
“I think it has been a long time coming. A lot of the feedback we got after mixed relay events, particularly after the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, was how much people enjoyed watching it, and how good it is for the sport.
“I think it is a very good year to start a mixed team event like this. London 2012 increased the profile of triathlon massively, and the Glasgow Games moved it on a bit further.
“It brought relay to the general public, and Rio moved the exposure of triathlon on again, so we need to build on that.”
But while 2016 saw the siblings continue to dominate the international triathlon scene, questions remain as to what 2017 has in store.
For Jonny, that’s the small matter of becoming World champion after missing out in a memorable finish in the Cozumel final last year, but for Alistair, such plans are still somewhat up in the air.
“At the moment, the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games is on the horizon,” he said. “I’ve been lucky enough to go to one Games before and win there, so it would be fantastic to do it again.
“I’m seeing how I enjoy different types of racing this year and then I’ll sit down and make a more detailed plan for the next few years.
“I definitely want to keep one foot in the door of the Olympic distance, with the thoughts that maybe Tokyo could be on the horizon, especially if there is a relay in it.”
But for his brother, more concrete goals have been put in place.
“It’s always a tough year, post-Olympics, to become World champion because it’s very busy, but that’s the aim,” he said.
“I have to start well, but I ideally don’t want to race too much, but if you want to become World champion you basically have to podium in each race.
“I’ll try my best to do that in the Gold Coast, and after last year’s events in Mexico, I’m more determined than ever.”
The British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup Nottingham takes place on Saturday 2 September 2017. Come and watch Britain’s best athletes going head-to-head with teams of two men and two women in world-class triathlon action. Visit britishtriathlon.org/mixedrelaycup for more information.
Vicky Holland: “I really want to go to Tokyo”
Vicky Holland at the Triathlon Show: London 2017
Great Britain’s Vicky Holland achieved a sporting dream in 2016 at the Rio Olympic Games, winning the Bronze medal, following a head-to-head sprint finish with her great friend and long-time training partner, Non Stanford.
We spoke to Vicky at the weekend while at the Triathlon Show: London 2017 at the ExCel Centre.
During the interview we cover:
- Her Olympic memories, six months on.
- The ‘surreal’ feeling of an Olympic podium.
- The contrast between ‘supporting’ at the Olympics and being a medal winner.
- Meeting the Queen!
- Leaving Leeds and re-locating to Bath.
- Being “selfish” as an athlete.
- Why she has no interest until long distance… until the week before Kona!
- Working with High5 Nutrition
Watch the video above to find out more about Vicky’s plans over the next Olympic cycle.
Triathlon wetsuits 2017: blueseventy
blueseventy profile 2017 range at the Giant Store St. Paul’s
Eve Roberts, the European Sales and Marketing Manager for blueseventy (www.blueseventy.co.uk), showcases their 2017 range at the recent Giant Store St. Paul’s Triathlon evening on 2nd February. Check out the video above to find out more.
Full coverage from the Giant Store St. Paul’s Swim Special Evening
- Triathlon wetsuits 2017: Zone3
- Triathlon wetsuits 2017: HUUB
- Triathlon wetsuits 2017: blueseventy
- Triathlon swimming made simple: Steven Lord
- Great Swim introduce Great SwimRun for 2017
- How to improve your Front Crawl technique: Swim for Tri
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS ON UPCOMING GIANT STORE TRIATHLON EVENTS
Danny Mills: from football to triathlon
Ex-England footballer talks triathlon and the Brownlee brothers
Former Leeds United footballer, Danny Mills, also played 19 times for England at senior level – which included every minute of England’s 2002 World Cup finals tournament in Korea / Japan.
Having retired from football with injury at 32 years of age, following a long period of rehabilitation, Danny has taken on a series os sporting challenges. These have included running several marathons, even completing the Brighton Marathon as a wheelchair racer to raise awareness and money for charity.
Danny Mills and triathlon…
Danny discovered triathlon over the past couple of years and has since completing two Ironman 70.3 races… with a full-distance still on his radar.
On Friday (3rd February) Danny did a great job of hosting a Q&A with the Brownlee brothers (you can watch that in full HERE), at the five year HUUB anniversary event, and shortly after that I spoke to Danny to find out more about his passion for the sport, respect for the Brownlee brothers and find out about his own triathlon goals for 2017.
The Brownlee brothers: in-depth Q&A
The Brownlee brothers talk wetsuits, race plans, Olympics, SPOTY, Leeds United and more
Last Friday at the Engine Shed in Derby, the Brownlee brothers (www.thebrownleebrothers.com) were the star attractions at a packed event hosted by wetsuit brand HUUB to celebrate their fifth anniversary.
Having trusted the brand with their signature four years ago – at a time when the product was little more than an idea of the kitchen table of Dean Jackson – that decision has been vindicated, with another four year contract just signed, keeping them with the brand until 2020.
Danny Mills hosts…
The Q&A was very well hosted by former England and Leeds United footballer, Danny Mills. Now a keen triathlete himself with an Ironman on his radar, Danny covered a lot of areas with the Olympic Gold and Silver medallists.
Find out more about…
- Why they first signed with a brand that barely had a product to offer them at that time
- How racing will change for Jonathan, with Alistair not being at many of the WTS events this year
- Why Alistair is not ruling out going for a third Gold in Tokyo
- Jonathan’s views on the potential of the Olympics being a Sprint distance race
- Why finishing second at SPOTY means “I’ve got a worse personality than Andy Murray”…
- …and why winning SPOTY might not have been a good thing, “not sure I wanted to make a speech!”
- Their passion for Leeds and Yorkshire
- Why Jonathan is still “uncomfortable” about the events of Cozumel
- Their “bucket list” races
And the biggest laugh of the day…
Jonathan on Alistair: “I work with Alistair, and he earns more than me…”
Alistair to Jonathan: “Yeah, but I do a slightly better job, don’t I?!”
Looking for sponsorship? Watch and learn!
HUUB founder Dean Jackson talks athlete sponsorship
“Build a relationship, become a friend… don’t just come with your hands out”
HUUB founder Dean Jackson has been involved in the triathlon industry for several decades now, across a range of blue chip brands even before he launched HUUB (www.huubdesign.com).
HUUB have just signed the Brownlee brothers to another four year contract – but Dean also support athletes of all levels from first-timers, not just those on the Olympic podium.
“Will you sponsor me?”
Having been on the end of thousands of “Will you sponsor me?” letters, emails and more, how do you stand out?
Before you start a “Dear Dean” request – be it to HUUB or any other brands – take some tips from Dean on making the right sort of approach with some simple advice from this video.
20 metre drafting rule for ‘The Championship’
Whether it is metres or meters… the Challenge Family have today confirmed – for both professional AND age group athletes – that ‘THE CHAMPIONSHIP’ (more on that HERE), which takes place at the x-bionic sphere© in Samorin, Slovakia on June 3, 2017, will feature a 20 meter/metre drafting distance.
This format has been used previously (with positive feedback from the athletes), most notably at the debut – and final – edition of Challenge Bahrain in 2014.
Here are the full details announced today.
CHALLENGEFAMILY has today announced that it will implement a 20 meter drafting rule on the bike leg at THECHAMPIONSHIP 2017 as a means to provide the fairest racing for all athletes. The 20 Meter drafting rule will apply for all professional and age group athletes.
Zibi Szlufcik, CEO of CHALLENGEFAMILY, said: “The Championship is our pinnacle event and we are committed to providing all athletes, be they professional or age groupers, with a fair race that rewards effort. With a minimum €150,000 prize purse there is a lot on the line for our professional athletes. It is imperative that we offer a level playing field for all. The drafting rule was one of the most critical topics of 2016 among pro athletes and for a fair race we feel it is imperative that the 20 meter rule is implemented for The Championship 2017.”
The 20 meter draft zone on the bike course will be a rectangle three meters wide and 20 meters long. An athlete will have 40 seconds to complete any overtaking maneuver once they enter the draft zone. The 20 meter will be enhanced through a new event start procedure which will see age group wave starts commencing at least 20 minutes after the last professional wave start and each wave start will have a maximum of 200 athletes.
Key aspects of the 20 meter drafting rule at The Championship:
- Separate female and male pro start wave
- Age Group Start minimum 20 minutes behind professional wave starts
- Maximum 200 athletes in any one start wave
- Minimum 10-minute gap between each age group wave start
- Sufficient referees on the bike course
- Markers placed and repeated at 20 meter intervals along the bike course to help athletes estimate the 20-meter distance correctly.
An athlete may enter a bike draft zone in the following circumstances:
- If the athlete enters the draft zone, and progresses through it within 40seconds in the overtaking maneuver;
- For safety reasons;
- 100 meters before and after an aid station or transition area;
- At an acute turn;
- If the Technical Delegate excludes a section of the course because of narrow lanes, construction, detours, or for other safety reasons.
THECHAMPIONSHIP 2017 will be held at the incredible x-bionic sphere© in Samorin, Slovakia on June 3, 2017. x-bionic sphere© covers 1 million square metres and offers facilities for twenty-seven different Olympic sports. Athletes have qualified for THECHAMPIONSHIP at CHALLENGEFAMILY events across the globe.
Athletes can still qualify at the upcoming races: CHALLENGEWANAKA (New Zealand), CHALLENGEMELBOURNE (Australia), CHALLENGEGRANCANARIA (Spain), CHALLENGETAIWAN (Taiwan), CHALLENGECERRADO (Brazil), CHALLENGELISBOA (Portugal), CHALLENGERIMINI (Italy) and CHALLENGESALOU (Spain).
More information about THECHAMPIONSHIP 2017 is available at www.thechampionship2017.com.
IRONMAN 70.3 Dublin confirmed for 2017
IRONMAN 70.3 RETURNS TO DUBLIN
ENTRIES TO OPEN 1ST FEBRUARY
IRONMAN is pleased to announce that IRONMAN 70.3 Dublin will be returning to the country’s capital on Sunday 20th August, 2017.
Entries for this eagerly awaited confirmation will open on Wednesday 1st February at 1pm.
Over 2,000 athletes, either individually or in a relay team, will tackle the third annual IRONMAN 70.3 Dublin race, which incorporates a 1.2 mile (1.9km) swim, followed by a 56 mile (90km) bike ride and then a 13.1 (21.1km) mile half-marathon all within 8.5 hours in and around Dublin.
The open-water swim will take place in Scotsman’s Bay (Dún Laoghaire), before athletes mount their bikes to travel through Dublin and west of the city, through Fingal, Kildare and Meath, on a looped cycle course, finally returning to Phoenix Park for the half-marathon run and where they will cross the finish line.
The swim and run course will remain unchanged, as will the majority of the bike course, but the final route will be subject to final approval by the statutory authorities and will be released in due course.
Kevin Stewart, Managing Director IRONMAN UK & Ireland commented, “We are delighted to return to Dublin for the third consecutive year to this iconic city venue. The event attracted thousands of athletes and spectators alike and we very much hope to welcome them again and together with the support of the local authorities build on the success of 2017. ”
Amongst the 2,000 entries, over 50% of whom are first timers, the event also has a truly international flavour. Last year athletes from 36 countries travelled across the globe to Dublin to compete, along with over 70% of Irish participants. The United States was the country with the third highest number of entries, including leading NASCAR driver Landon Cassil.
Additionally IRONMAN 70.3 Dublin race has been selected as a qualifying race for the 2018 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Mandela Bay, South Africa, with 50 qualifying slots up for grabs for the pinnacle event in the global IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon series.
Last year, USA’s Ben Collins and Susie Cheetham from the UK were crowned winners in the men’s and women’s pro races, finishing in 4:00:41 and 4:22:33 respectively. Ireland’s Bryan McCrystal was not only the top age group competitor but also finished in a phenomenal 2nd place overall with a time of 04:00:56.
For further information, video highlights and online entry from 1 February, please visit ironman.com/dublin70.3
How about racing Alpe d’Huez Triathlon in 2017?
12th EDF Alpe d’Huez Triathlon – 24th-28th July 2017
The EDF Alpe d’Huez Triathlon (www.alpetriathlon.com) is, for many, one of the bucket-list races of the European calendar.
We’ve had the pleasure of attending the event several times in recent years, and it really does live up to its status. The Long Course event bike course is surely one of the most beautiful in the world, and the sights will take your breath away… if you have any left after ‘enjoying’ the terrain that is!
Schedule of Events
The Alpe d’Huez Triathlon offers something for everyone, with several events over the week:
- Duathlon – Tuesday 25th July 2017
- Children’s Triathlon – Wednesday 26th July 2017
- Long Distance Triathlon – Thursday 27th July 2017
- Short Distance Triathlon – Friday 28th July 2017
Watch this short video to see what is on offer at the 12th edition of the race this July.
Brownlees take on Alton Towers
Wet and wild at Alton Towers… The Waterslide Challenge
The Olympic Heroes were joined by fellow HUUB Ambassadors Lucy Charles & Jack Burnell to find out who is HUUB’s fastest athlete – down a waterslide…
This week, multi award winning triathlon outfitters HUUB Design have put British Olympic heroes Alistair and Jonny Brownlee through tests of endurance, the likes of which they have never taken part in before, to find out once and for all, who is the quickest… down a waterslide.
Joined by professional triathlete and rising star Lucy Charles and Olympic open-water swimmer Jack Burnell, the group were put through their paces with a number of challenges at Alton Towers Water Park.
Part one of the video sees the athletes take timed runs down the slide, banking an initial time. They are then given the chance to spend £50 each to upgrade their HUUB products to increase their overall speed, the results can be seen here.
“Jonny and I have a lot of experience in high pressure endurance competition, but I can safely say this was a first for us. More than anything we all wanted to win! It was freezing cold but we all forgot that when the competition started.”
HUUB founder Dean Jackson added:
“All of our elite level ambassadors think they are the quickest, so we thought we would level the playing field and see who could cope with a few new situations! HUUB is all about using science and technology to gain an advantage so we thought we would try out a few new ideas with the guys!”
Derby based HUUB Design pride themselves on focusing wholly on the athlete, maximising comfort and performance – through science. HUUB Design have won Best Tri Wetsuit Brand Of The Year from 2013 to 2016 at the 220 Triathlon Awards and additionally picked up Best Tri Suit Brand and Best Race Under 500 Participants for the Jenson Button Trust Triathlon in 2016.
David McNamee looks ahead to the big race
The top British Male athlete at Kona 12 months ago, finishing in 11th, David McNamee has high hopes of moving into the top-10 this year.
He spoke to Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) earlier this week about the changes to his approach to the race this year, hoping to arrive fresh and much stronger on the bike.
Susie Cheetham – “I’m a better athlete than last year”
“I’m a better athlete than last year… I hope I can show it”
Could it be a big, BIG year for Great Britain’s Susie Cheetham? Sixth on her Kona debut twelve months ago, she is confident in her physical abilities and hopes to be able to show that on Saturday.
Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) chatted to Susie this week following the Pro briefing. Check out her pre-race thoughts.
Lucy Gossage – “When life gives you lemons…make lemonade”
Joanne Murphy (www.tritakingsport.co.uk) talks to the Duracell Bunny, Lucy Gossage in Kona ahead of Saturday’s IRONMAN World Championship 2016.
What do you do when you break your clavicle eight weeks before the biggest race of the year? You can give up, or… you can fight back.
Life throws you lemons sometimes. I need to turn a broken clavicle into lemonade. Might be tricky. Down but not out.
— lucy gossage (@lucygoss) August 7, 2016
Will Clarke – “It feels like the same level as the Olympics”
Will Clarke is one of five British Male Pro athletes racing at the IRONMAN World Championship on Saturday – but he’s the only debutant in Kona.
Ahead of the race Will spoke to Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) talks about his first experience of Hawaii and his tactics for success on Saturday.
Matt Russell – “I like to race. A lot…”
Matt Russell (USA) is one of the most prolific racers around.
When he starts from Dig Me Beach on Saturday it will be just two weeks since he finished third at IRONMAN Chattanooga to Marino Vanhoenacker (BEL).
An unconventional approach, perhaps – but one that Matt has confidence in. He spoke this week to Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) about his approach to the race.
Joe Skipper – “I’m much fitter this year…”
He was 13th last year in his debut, with what he describes as an “average race”, and this year Joe Skipper has his sights on a top-five finish.
Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) spoke to the first British athlete to crack the eight-hour mark for the iron-distance ahead of Saturday’s big race.
Lionel Sanders is “angry” & ready to race
Lionel Sanders (CAN) is one of the most exciting long-distance triathletes in the world.
He’s already won five IRONMAN 70.3 races in 2016, using his devastating bike and run prowess to crush the opposition. 14th last year in his debut, he’s back in a much stronger frame of mind and should go a lot better this time around.
Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) managed to get some time with him this week and find out what he learned from last year, and why Craig Alexander has inspired his own IRONMAN journey.
Harry Wiltshire – “If you get it right, it defines your career”
Two years ago Harry Wiltshire made it to Kona after one of the most amazing points chases we’ve ever seen – all while qualifying as a Barrister and with a broken back!
He crossed the line that year in nine hours exactly. 2016 has been his best long-distance season by far, with wins at IRONMAN Vichy and IRONMAN 70.3 Weymouth, plus further podiums at IRONMAN 70.3 Dublin and IRONMAN 70.3 Staffordshire.
Joanne Murphy (www.tritalkingsport.co.uk) grabbed some time with Harry ahead of the Pro briefing.
Who is going to win the IRONMAN World Championship?
That’s the question everyone is asking? Well, we asked IronmanLive.com co-presenter Michael Lovato for his thoughts and analysis of how the race will play out.
Watch the video for his forecast of the men’s and women’s top five. Do you agree?!
