Brownlees bring short course triathlon racing back to Leeds

Short course triathlon is returning to Roundhay Park in Leeds, after TBF Events, the mass participation arm of the Brownlee Foundation, announced the launch of its latest event. 

Taking place on Sunday, August 3, the Leeds Triathlon will take place over the sprint and super sprint distances with all profits going to the Brownlee Foundation, the charity which provides free, mini-triathlons for primary school children across the country.

“We’re inviting the triathlon community to be part of something bigger,” says two-time Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee. “By taking part in Leeds Triathlon, you’re not just challenging yourself, you’re directly supporting the next generation of athletes. Every pound raised will be reinvested into grassroots triathlon.”

With a course designed for both first timers or those looking to get a personal best, clubs are also being encouraged to use the event as inter club championships, with discounts available on request. There are also aquabike and relay formats available for individuals who don’t want to do all three disciplines. 

The race weekend will feature live entertainment, food stalls, an expo village, and family-friendly activities. Jonny Brownlee adds: “We want Leeds Triathlon to be more than just a race. Like other great triathlon cities, we want Leeds to welcome athletes and visitors, creating an atmosphere that everyone benefits from.”

The swim will take place in Waterloo lake before the bike leg on closed roads surrounding the park and then running through the beautiful parkland before finishing in front of the Mansion House. 

As the Brownlees’ home city, Leeds has long been a powerhouse of British triathlon and has been an influential training base in delivering almost all of GB’s Olympic medals.  

Roundhay Park has also hosted world-class races, including the World Triathlon Series until 2022, and will also welcome Ironman Leeds this summer. 

The brothers are hoping that the additional attraction of supporting the Brownlee Foundation will lead to the event being a sellout. Since its inception in 2014, the charity has enabled more than 66,000 children to take part in its events. 

“It’s about starting young people on a journey into sport and helping them discover all the valuable benefits that come with an active lifestyle,” Jonny Brownlee explains. “Whether they continue in triathlon or simply find joy in swimming, cycling, or running, we want them to know that being active is for everyone.”

It’s not the only TBF Event available this summer. Other events across the north of England include the established Ripon and Helvellyn Triathlons, which collectively raised £15,000 for the Brownlee Foundation in 2024. 

Those interested in taking part, can enter the events as follows:

• Leeds Triathlon, August 3, 2025, leedstriathlon.com
• Helvellyn Triathlon, September 7, 2025, helvellyntriathlon.co.uk
• Ripon Triathlon Festival, July 12-13, 2025 ripontriathlonfestival.co.uk