What better New Year’s resolution for 2018 than to get fit and enter the Leeds Castle Triathlon 2018. Now in its fifth consecutive year, the popular event last year saw over 1000 competitors put themselves to the test with a run, cycle and swim under the ancient arches of “the loveliest Castle in the world”.
Leeds Castle is delighted to have become the 2019 ITU Standard Distance Triathlon Qualifier (Draft Illegal) meaning the top finishing athletes in the 2018 event will be eligible to enter the 2019 Lausanne ITU Standard Distance Triathlon World Championships, to be held in Lausanne.
A sprint race will take place on Saturday 23rd June 2018, ideal for beginners with a shorter open water swim on 750m, 26k road cycle and 5k run across the estate. If you are new to Triathlon, this is the race for you as competitor numbers are capped ensuring it won’t be too daunting at the start line.
Competitors will receive lots of support before, during and after their race. Three optional advance training sessions are offered to everyone who signs up for free, which include run recces and a chance to try a practice swim in the Castle’s moat before the big day.
In the afternoon, there is a Junior Aquathlon for children aged from 8 to 14 years old. The categories will be TriStart (8yrs), TriStar 1 (9-10yrs), TriStar 2 (11-12yrs) and TriStar3 (13-14yrs). The swim will take place in the beautiful moat surrounding this iconic Castle and the run will be across the stunning estate.
This is a great race for children in the safe and secure environment of Leeds Castle. Maidstone Canoe Club will be on hand to provide full water safety training and for each child registered an accompanying adult can watch the race for free and also enjoy the Castle, grounds and attractions for the whole day.
On Sunday 24th June 2018, the main race takes place when athletes can attempt the Olympic distance of a 1500m swim, 40k cycle and a 10k run. This swim in the moat, offers a unique backdrop for spectators to watch on and cheer for their friends and family. On exiting the water athletes will make their way to transition before heading out of the Castle on to a rolling bike course. Off the bike the athletes will then complete a run course around the stunning Castle grounds.
The Castle in the backdrop of the finish line will make for fantastic photography, capturing the athletes finishing before they head to the Cedar Lawn for refreshments and a well-deserved massage.
If you are not quite ready to take on the challenge of a full Triathlon, why not get a team of friends, family or colleagues together and sign up as a relay team.
If you are interested in taking part in the Triathlon or just coming along to watch the action, please visit our website www.leeds-castle.com/triathlon.
