Report from Triathlon Ireland www.triathlonireland.com
In a season that has been blighted by not so wonderful weather – the 2011 version of the Big Splash Triathlon was bathed in sunshine from start to finish, making both the race and the wider Big Splash festival a treat for athletes and spectators alike. This Triathlon Ireland sanctioned event, hosted by the Triangle club, is part of the Decathlon series organised in conjunction with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and the River Bann was certainly promoted to tourists in all its glory.
Unlike last year when competitors got a slightly short first leg, the swim was bang on 750m. Even so, eventual winner and TI Junior Squad member, Russell White still managed to break nine minutes and take a substantial lead that he would hold to the finish. Second male home was Alistair Duffield with Carl Russell completing the podium. These three held their positions throughout the race and competed in classic time trial fashion.
The women’s race was more closely fought with Anne Paul taking the win despite having been trailing when out of the water. A great bike leg put her in the lead which she held throughout the run. Judith Lowry had a storming bike section to move through the field and claim second place. The battle for third was incredibly close with Emma Bamford just about holding off Kay Hack to claim a podium place. Emma showing that her run legs had not been left behind in Roth!
Congratulations to all those who took part, especially those who were experiencing their first triathlon. It was certainly one to savour. Thanks go to all those who made the race possible, including the water safety personel, St. John’s Ambulance, PSNI, the numberous marshals and indeed the people of Portglenone who were so hospitable.
Full race results are available here: http://bigsplashtriathlon.com/results/index.html
