Hi readers, only one race to report on this week. Seven of our club members entered the Black Sheep Ripon Standard Distance Triathlon, held on Saturday 9th July at Ripon Racecourse. They found the early promise of good weather slightly dampened by strong head winds and intermittent rain, which made the 40km bike section of the race very tough. The 1500m open water swim to start with was pleasant enough, a mere 20 degrees, surprisingly warm for the poor summer we’ve had. The 10km run route off the bike was flat and fast, weaving through country lanes and alongside canals into a gauntlet of high-fives and cheering crowds at the finish.
Susan Brown was first home for the club in a time of 2:24:11. She was 1st female in her age group and 98th overall. Stuart Rimmer was next home in a time of 2:45:14, 34th in his age group, 329th overall. Next to finish was Nicola Darragh in a time of 2:46:40, 9th in her age group and 344th overall. Melanie Rowland finished in a time of 2:48:43, 6th in her age group and 363rd overall, closely followed by Penny Johnson in a time of 2:48:43, 7th in her age group and 364th overall. Martin Sedgwick was next home in a time of 2:56:50, 80th in his age group and 451st overall. Just under the three-hour mark, Tracey Warrior finished in 2:59:41, 14th in her age group, 470th overall. And our final club member on the day Michael Casey, crossed the finish line in a time of 3:08:02, 7th in his age group and 526th overall.
The team had a fantastic weekend, taking full use of the camping facilities. Special mentions go to Susan Brown for coming first in her age group; 5th female overall, Tracey Warrior who had a personal best for the race, taking a massive eight minutes off her previous time and Michael Casey for finishing his longest distance of his Tri career. Everyone would like to thank their supporters and the hospitality given over the weekend.
If anyone would like any information regarding the sport of Triathlon, (how easy is it to get started, kit required, etc.) please contact the club via our e-mail address aycliffetriclub@gmail.com, where one of our friendly coaches will answer any queries.