Still time to sign up for Bradley Stokes first Triathlon
July 21st, 2015
Sports enthusiasts in South Gloucestershire have snapped up over 100 of the places available for Bradley Stoke s first triathlon, being held at the end of August.
Active Centres in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council and Triathlon England, is hosting the sprint event which consists of a 400 metre pool swim at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre, 18 km cycle and 5 km run. The bike and run phases will be held on closed roads along Bradley Stoke Way to ensure the event is safe as well as fun.
Three of those who have committed to the challenge are locals Nick Groves, Simon Ward and Tom Thatcher who are all hoping to set personal bests.
Nick, aged 28, is the Assistant Manager at Kingswood Leisure Centre and decided to enter the triathlon as one of his fitness goals for the year. Although a keen swimmer, he has only attempted a couple of sprint triathlons in the past and says that his cycling will be the biggest challenge.
He said: I am pretty strong in the pool but the cycling is where I am going to lose the time. Hopefully I can make some of it up in the run.
Bradley Stoke resident Simon, aged 40, is a more seasoned triathlete, having competed in more than 25 around the country. He recently completed a 180 mile cycle ride from Manchester United Football Club s ground at Old Trafford to Bristol City s at Ashton gate. The epic ride raised funds for local boy Morgan Walker who has cerebral palsy and is shortly on his way to the US for what is hoped to be a life changing operation.
He said: Sprint triathlon is a great way to get a taste for the sport, it s how I started. I am really pleased that there is one being held in Bradley Stoke, it s going to be a great day for those taking part as well as the local community.
Competing alongside the boys will be sibling rivalry, Shelley Rendell, aged 36 and brother Ben Neary, aged 35. Both work at Active and although experienced runners, this will be their first ever triathlon.
Shelley said: Ben and I are always up for a challenge, our close relationship always brings out a competitive streak and we can t wait to battle it out. It s going to be a great atmosphere, an exciting day for families and fellow staff.
The community-based Sprint Triathlon event will cater for all abilities aged over 18 who want to be part of this fast growing sport. It is one of the highlights of Active s tenth anniversary celebrations this year, organised purely on a voluntary basis, any profits earned as a result will be reinvested into future events and sport development projects within the community.
To follow the sibling rivalry or receive regular updates on the Active Triathlon follow Active Centres on Twitter @ActiveCentres or Facebook: www.facebook.com/ActiveCentres 