Report by Hannah Wright

Race Date: Sunday 18^th June 2023

Triathlon – 750 metre swim in the Lake, Cycle 22km around the Country Lanes and finish with a flat, fast 5km around the Park.

This event seemed to come round quickly. It was the first Triathlon at Rother Valley for a number of years. An early start on a dark at stormy Sunday morning was required. Registration opened at 6:30 am and the first wave of the triathlon and duathlon starting around 8am. Due to the barriers to the carpark not being open on time the first wave got pushed back to 8:30am.

After picking up my number I racked my bike and headed to the portaloo. As usual not enough loo’s and I forgot how hard it was to take off a trisuit in a confined space. Then I went to find out the in/out layout of the transition area. This was well signposted.

Time to don the wet suit, swim cap and goggles and wait for my wave to be called.  Water temperature was approx 15 degrees and the swim course was well laid out with the coloured buoys. Once I got into to water the adrenaline started to pump and I was ready to go. I was also excited to use the triathlon feature on my Garmin.

Swim completed and a swift transition onto the bike. I was impressed by my quick removal of the wetsuit. The cycle route was well marshalled and sign posted. Plenty of undulation during the ride with some great scenery.

After the ride another quick transition to the run. The run was slow and steady after being in the saddle but rewarding to know that this was the last push to the finish. One 5km around the lake and to the finish line. Collected my medal, snood and a can of San Miguel (which I thoroughly enjoyed in the sun).

First man was Ross Hutchison (Abbey Runners) in 1:08:04 and first lady was Hannah Peel (Sheffield Tri Club) in 1:16:14.

Here is the link to the results. I am just happy I wasn’t last (243^rd in 2:28:19).

Hannah’s splits: