Blenheim triathlon extends (From Witney Gazette)

Blenheim triathlon extends

2:31pm Wednesday 22nd February 2006 in Witney By Emma-Kate Lidbury

THE Blenheim Triathlon is back and this year, it promises to be an even bigger success.

Now in its second year, the event, which involves swimming, cycling, and running, will be held at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, over two days, in anticipation of the large number of competitors who will want to get involved.

Last year, almost 3,000 competitors took part, making it the UK's second largest triathlon.

Organisers are expecting a flood of more than 4,000 entries for the event, which will be held on Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21.

Entrants can choose between competing over two distances: sprint 750m swim, 20km cycle, 5km run, or super-sprint 400m swim, 10km cycle, 2.5km run. There will also be a team relay event.

Despite the cloudy skies and showers last year, 7,500 spectators packed into the palace grounds to cheer on friends and relatives who were racing, many for the first time.

"The Blenheim Triathlon provides the ideal start to the triathlon season, and is one of few triathlons to have such a stunning backdrop."

Event director Nick Rusling

Event director, Nick Rusling,said: "In its first year, Blenheim was an amazing success, and became the second biggest triathlon.

"With a venue like Blenheim, we couldn't really fail. There was an amazing atmosphere on the day last year, and every triathlete had a fantastic time.

"This year, we will be developing it further, and because of high demand, will be extending it to two days.

"The Blenheim Triathlon provides the ideal start to the triathlon season, and is one of few triathlons to have such a stunning backdrop."

There will be a host of new additions, including a women's afternoon on May 20, and a varsity race.

Among the celebrities taking part last year were Olympic gold medal-winning rower James Cracknell, Radio One DJ Marianne Hobbs and millionaire hotelier Sir Rocco Forte.

Oxford triathlete Sophie Whitworth won the women's sprint event before going on to win a silver medal at the World Age Group Triathlon Championships in Hawaii later in the season. She will be racing at Blenheim again this year.

She said: "It will be my second race of the season. I'm expecting tough competition from some local athletes and so can't be too confident of a repeat performance.

"Blenheim is a good starter race for anyone wanting to try triathlon.

"The course is not too daunting for the first-time triathlete. You get a taste of what open water swimming is like and the bike course is fairly challenging but scenic. You get the buzz of being at a big event. It can be a great platform to go on and really get into triathlon."

For more information, visit www.theblenheimtriathlon.com, or call 0207 559 2939.