Chichester ready for big weekend of triathlon action

ATHLETES and organisers are looking forward to the biggest-ever Chichester Triathlon Series this weekend (July 4/5).
Action from last year's junior aquathon / Picture by Kate ShemiltAction from last year's junior aquathon / Picture by Kate Shemilt
Action from last year's junior aquathon / Picture by Kate Shemilt

Now in its ninth year, the event has grown to become one of the largest pool-based triathlon competitions in the country.

More than 600 adults and children will be taking part across two days, including a record number of 36 teams.

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Chichester Westgate Triathlon Club (CWTC) will be aiming to defend their titles in the male and female Olympic-distance events but will face competition in triathlon clubs from across the south-east.

Younger athletes will be taking part in the junior aquathlon on Saturday. It’s for eight to 16-year-olds and will start at 1pm with a swimming race at Westgate Leisure, followed by a run around Chichester College’s campus.

On Sunday, adults take part in Olympic and sprint-distance events, with the earliest starters setting off at 7am.

The Olympic-distance event consists of a 600m pool swim at Westgate Leisure, a 42km bike ride, which includes cycling up South Harting Hill, and a 10km run along Centurion Way.

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Teams from Chichester District Council and event sponsors Natures Way Foods will be among the entrants. There will also be a shorter race, known as a try-a-tri event.

Sarah Baldock, director responsible for Natures Way Foods’ community programme, said: “On behalf of everyone at Natures Way Foods, I’d like to say good luck to everyone taking part in the aquathlon, try a tri and triathlon events this weekend.

“We’re looking forward to seeing a record number of participants crossing the finish lines, including our own teams and individuals, and hoping for some pleasant weather to see us all through.”

On Saturday, prizes are expected to be handed out at 3.30pm. Sunday’s prizegiving ceremonies are expected at 12.30pm and 3pm.

See the Observer next week for full coverage.

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