Town’s triathlon shows sporting and community spirit at its best

After days of uncertain weather, Eastbourne was treated to clear skies and perfect conditions, making the Eastbourne Triathlon even more memorable for athletes and spectators alike.

Throughout the day, Eastbourne’s seafront buzzed with excitement as over 1,000 athletes, ranging in age from just three to 83, competed in a variety of inspiring events.

Families and friends lined the streets and promenade, creating an atmosphere filled with pride, encouragement and celebration. The day featured everything from lively scoot races for the youngest participants to triathlons, duathlons, aquathlons, aquabike races and spirited swim events.

The headline Eastbourne Triathlon 100k captured the imagination with its challenging course: a 2km sea swim, a spectacular yet demanding 80km cycle over Beachy Head’s scenic roads, and an 18km run along the picturesque promenade.

Hamish James claimed victory, closely followed by Jamie Bedwell and Richard Smith. Equally impressively, Thalia Hessey led the women's field, closely followed by Laura Salt and Isis Panossian Solato.

The Sprint Distance offered thrilling, fast-paced action. Oliver Darcy clinched first place, with Oliver Smith and Ethan Hill securing podium spots. Female athletes similarly shone brightly.

In the Standard Distance event, Adam Dart was first, closely pursued by Matthew Shackleton and Jeremy Dunnett. The women's race was equally captivating, featuring fiercely competitive efforts and inspiring displays.

Novice athletes brought immense heart and enthusiasm, capturing the spirit of participation. Ben Fitzwilliams secured first among novices, closely followed by Kristian Oake. Lois Loseby-Brown emerged as the top female novice.

A highlight of the day was Elaine Crampton, the final finisher in the Sprint Triathlon, crossing the line to a chorus of cheers and applause, raising over £1,200 for Maidstone Hospital. Her achievement encapsulated the spirit of the event.

Race Director Dale Anderton said: “We take enormous pride in all of our events but we owe their success to our remarkable volunteers, fantastic staff, generous sponsors, supportive partners, enthusiastic community members and amazing athletes who together ensure it continues to get better and better year after year.”

Next up is the eagerly anticipated TriBourne Festival of Endurance on July 20. Athletes will bravely leap from Eastbourne Pier at 6am, taking on an epic challenge: a 1.2-mile swim, a demanding 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon, all within a 17-hour limit.

The events depend greatly on the fantastic support of volunteers so if you’d like to be part of an unforgettable experience and a wonderful community, please email [email protected] – or for more on the events, visit https://www.tribourne.co.uk/ and follow on Instagram – tribourne.events