Whinlatter Off Road Duathlon preview
Details of a new course have just been announced for what's already become one of the UK's toughest duathlons
6.5k run/18k mtb/5.5k run
13 November 2011
www.highterrainevents.co.uk
The third edition of the Whinlatter Off Road Duathlon is scheduled to take place on Sunday 13 November 2011. Details of a new course have just been announced and should provide a thrill for duathletes and an off-season focus for triathletes.
Based in this spectacular mountain forest location in the beautiful surroundings of the Northern Lake District the event is quickly establishing itself as one of the UK’s toughest off road duathlons.
Incorporating over 1200m of ascent into the 6.5k/18k/5.5k course this new route will be equally as challenging as previous editions. Starting on the South side of the forest, the initial 6.5k trail run will utilise the fantastic network of trails on offer, with the addition of a few short sections of rough terrain over ‘natural’ obstacles.
The 18k mountain bike route incorporates both the full Quercus and Altura South mountain bike trails with the addition of some tough sections on forest tracks. This is slightly less technical than previously but no less exhillarating as the route climbs to over 500m giving some spectacular views of Grizedale Pike, Skiddaw, Blencathra and Derwent Water before a flowing singletrack descent back into the forest. The final 5.5k run is no less demanding, climbing some sinuous trails to the summit of Seat How before a well earned descent back to the finish at Cyclewise.
Last year’s race was won by Borrowdale fell runner Nick Fish after a close fought battle with the Keswick Bike duo Chris Hope and Andrew Wrigley. International mountain runner Victoria Wilkinson from Bingley Harriers won the female category, finishing an incredible 8th overall.
However, it’s not just for the elite as the event is suitable for all abilities, whether you are new to multisport or simply looking for a challenging event in a stunning location. Don’t be misled by the relatively short distances as Paul Titley from Keswick summed it up nicely, “The Whinlatter Duathlon was my 377th event and is amongst various marathons etc. one of the hardest I can recall.”
The event also includes a relay category for pairs where one person cycles and the other runs. This is open for male, female & mixed teams and is ideal for specialist runners/cyclists or beginners who would like to test themselves over a single discipline. There will be prizes on the day from event sponsors Up and Running and Cyclewise Whinlatter for individual male & female, veteran male & female, & first team along with various spot prizes. Bike hire is available from Cyclewise who will be open on the day for any last minute essentials.
Whinlatter is the first event of the winter duathlon series organised by High Terrain Events. Entries are limited and previous editions have been a sell out.The next duathlon is Kielder on 4th December set in the beautiful Kielder Forest Park in Northumberland. Full event details and online registration are available at www.highterrainevents.co.uk.
Photo: Stuart Holmes
Matt Baird
Editor of Cycling Plus magazine 
