Newbury Triathlon - 5th Sept 2010

Having failed miserably in my attempt to qualify for Budapest and Edinburgh, I decided to compete in something altogether more low key last weekend and participated in the Newbury Triathlon. Jane (Tooze) also joined me in his endeavour as a perfect warm-up for the Standard Distance event in Bala next Sunday.

The Newbury Tri is a short sprint event, and ideal for first timers. It doesn't have the rigour of other BTF events that most of us are used to participating in, but that doesn't detract from what is a very accommodating and welcoming event for all abilities. It was the first Tri I competed in 3 years ago, and I feel a certain warmth towards it. The swim is held in an outdoor (thankfully heated) 75 yard long pool, of which you are required to only do 4 lengths. The ride is an undulating 22k, with the final 7k being rode on freshly tarmac'd and therefore very fast roads. It was the first Tri I've used my super-light tri bars on, and boy, what a difference they made. Why I haven't bought a pair earlier, goodness only knows (no comments about skinflint please). The run is just shy of 5k and once you are past the A34, is very picturesque running alongside the Kennet and Avon Canal.

I managed an overall time of 1hr 13mins which is faster than my two previous attempts so something seems to be working with the training. Jane finished a credible 13th in her age group and is now set up nicely for an attempt at the Standard distance this weekend.

Bala here we come!

Comments

[Julian McCarthy]

well done Len (and Jane). If your snoring does not keep me awake too much in the hostel, I look forward to a close fought battle in Bala

Julian

[Marius Kwint]

Good to hear you and Jane are racing again, Len, and good luck in Bala. Get the hydration and nutrition sorted and I'm sure you'll do well.