Record numbers signing up for the Castle Tri Series
Markel Castle Triathlon Series now established as the largest tri series in the UK
News just in from the Castle Triathlon Series’ organisers…
In its fifth year The Markel Castle Triathlon is clocking up record numbers for the 2013 five weekend events with quadruple the number of competitors signed up as this time last year. The 2013 events will see an even wider spectrum of competitors taking part thanks to the surge in family and children’s participation and the new partnership with the military division, BattleBack Paratiathlon team.
“One of our ambitions is to offer a race suitable and tailored for everyone,” says Brian Adcock, the Race Director.
“The 2012 Paralympics was a huge inspiration and the news that the Paralympics in Rio will include triathlon for the first time in history is a huge coup. The BattleBack Paratriathlon team launched in 2012 with the aim of staging more races and opportunities for injured service men and women. The team at BattleBack Paratriathlon will be working with us to tailor our UK events for paratriathlete accessibility.”
Last year the Series attracted over 8,000 competitors including Olympian Tim Don and this year it is offering even more to appeal to fans and new followers. The 2013 Series highlights include:
New half iron-distance – The Gauntlet
We have thrown down ‘The Gauntlet’ by launching new half iron distances (1.9km/90km/21km) in 2013. The Hever Castle Triathlon (Sunday 29th September) and The Château de Chantilly Triathlon (Sunday 25th August) are natural venues for a long distance race offering motivating and inspirational courses.
Prize fund
The annual prize pot is £12,000 for Olympic-distance competitors. Additional prize money has been put up this year to reward The Gauntlet top competitors; €5,000 prize fund at The Château de Chantilly Triathlon, and £5,000 prize fund at The Hever Castle Triathlon. Every competitor receives a medal with trophies and prizes given to winners of other categories.
Largest children’s triathlon in Europe
The Hever Castle Triathlon hosted the largest children’s triathlon in Europe in 2012 with over 800 children aged between 8 and 15 taking part. The Series offers a unique setting where all ages and levels can race at the same event. All races are open to individuals and relay teams. Not only do competitors enjoy a perfect race setting the spectators can cheer their family and friends while enjoying castle grounds and food and activities for all the family.
All for a good cause
The events raised over £100,000 for charity last year. This year the Series continues to support local charities and the national charity, Help for Heroes.
Competitors can enter an event by visiting www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk or calling 01892 870681.
Image: Colin Baldwin
Matt Baird
Editor of Cycling Plus magazine 
