Chichester all set for tenth triathlon

Chichester is gearing up to mark ten years of triathlons in the city this weekend.
Over 800 atheletes are to desecend on Chichester for the city's tenth triathlonOver 800 atheletes are to desecend on Chichester for the city's tenth triathlon
Over 800 atheletes are to desecend on Chichester for the city's tenth triathlon

The event, which is hosted by Everyone Active, will see more than 800 athletes descend onto Chi’s streets for a two-day anniversary race.

To mark a milestone year, Natures Way Foods Chichester Triathlon series have decided to add a junior race to their programme.

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A stellar field has been announced with mutliple winner Peter Younghusband, last year’s champion Harry Leleu and young hotshot Samuel Pink all confirming their attendance for the Olympic distance event.

Younghusband has been crowned winner a number of times over ten years, while Chichester Westgate Triathlon Club member and last year’s champion Leleu will also be back to defend his crown.

With Pink, another Chi Westgate athlete, confirmed it could be a closely contested battle for first place and just a minute may separate the talented top three.

However, as 800 athletes have already submitted their names to compete, a surprise could well be in store.

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Gym manager at Westgate Leisure Centre, Mike Cooper, has competed in international level triathlons and admits Sunday’s race will be a special occasion for everyone associated and taking part.

He said: “We are delighted to be hosting this fantastic event for a tenth year.

“Multi-sport events are a great way to get fit and try your hand at different activities. Although they can be challenging, triathlons are also a lot of fun – which is really what this weekend is all about.

“The Natures Way Foods Chichester Triathlon Series has a real community focus.

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“As well as getting as many people as possible active, these events also provide a great day out for families and those wanting to cheer on the competitors.

“I’d encourage anyone thinking of getting involved to sign up.”

The event will get under way at Westgate Leisure Centre. Youngsters will take to the pool on Saturday morning and compete in an aquathlon before the inaugural junior triathlon begins in the afternoon.

Adults will then have their opportunities on Sunday, when the Olympic triathlon takes place alongside a shorter sprint triathlon.

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The two-day series encourages participants of all ages and abilities to get active, with this year’s event specifically tailored to ensure everyone has an opportunity to be involved.

Should any athlete not feel confident of completing the whole course, an opportunity to complete it as a team is available with competitors able to stick with just one sport.

Westgate Triathlon Club regularly use the centre’s facilities to train for events such as this.

Stuart Wilson, who is a member of the club, has been involved in all previous nine races and believes it will be a memorable moment when Sunday’s gets under way.

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He said: “I’d stopped playing football regularly and was looking for something else to do.

“When I saw the Chichester Triathlon advertised I thought I’d give it a go and have been hooked ever since.

“Chichester is a great race, it is really well organised and the course gives competitors a good challenge.

“There’s a fantastic atmosphere on the day with everyone coming together to swap their racing stories.”

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The adult events are available to anyone over the age of 16. Children aged between eight and 16 can participate in the junior category.

For more information on competing in this year’s triathlons, or to find out how you can be involved by volunteering at the events, contact [email protected] or visit www.everyoneactive.com/chichester

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