Triathlon test is a sporting treat (From Gazette Series)

Triathlon test is a sporting treat

THE hugely successful Blue Coat Primary School Triathlon took place on Sunday, June 20, and was a very well-attended event.

The Wotton-under-Edge school was delighted to host the gruelling fitness challenge, which attracted an impressive field of 60 competitors.

Runners, walkers and die hard triathletes were all on show in an event which has certainly proved popular with the region's athletes.

The triathlon course provided a true endurance test for those involved, with a 40 length swim, 12 mile cycle and five mile run the components of the event.

With triathlon very much a sport on the rise throughout the South West, with clubs such as Yate Tristars already coaching at junior level, the Blue Coat challenge featured almost 30 dedicated triathlon enthusiasts.

Chairman of the school's PTA Mark Thomas expressed his thanks to all those who participated in the event, admiring the strength, courage and enthusiasm of those who completed the course.

He said: "There were some quite staggering times set, but special praise must go to those who were simply determined to complete their particular part regardless of any setbacks.

"Thanks also to the organising committee, the marshalls and first aiders who gave up their spare time, and especially to all those who offered sponsorship. We have estimated that almost £2000 will be raised for school and pre-school funds, the majority going towards our project to construct adventure playgrounds for the school field.

"In view of the fantastic number of entrants, and the very positive feedback received, we are hopeful that the triathlon will become an annual event for the school and the whole of Wotton."