Triathlons in Liverpool

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This is a great triathlon for a beginner. It is based in a big grassy park where there is cheap all day parking, an event village and toilets and showers. The swim and T1 are a 10 minute walk away at Nantwich open air brine pool. The swim and race briefing were well-managed and there was no need for flip-flops because there was matting between the swim and T1. It was a sunny day and the open air pool was a bonus. I'd been for a recce swim the week before and the water had seemed colder than it did on the day, but the recce swim prompted me to get my head and shoulders under the water before I was counted off to start.The bike leg was on mainly quiet lanes and was well-marshalled. The route was gently undulating and a race car drove around the route throughout the event. Arrival into T2 was easy and good for supporters to get close. Water was available straight out of T2 and at the start of every lap of the run. I'm not usually keen on running on grass, but the grass in Bariny Park was flat and even and I was fine in road running shoes. The run is 4 laps and goes right through the event village and the atmosphere created by the picnicking spectators. I'd recommend this triathlon to first timers, and to anyone keen on an open air pool. The pool was a stand-out feature for me, as was the, as yet unmentioned, post race massage.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  First race I've done for a couple of years and this one seemed perfect, an outdoor pool , fast flat course through Cheshire plains and a grassy run. I would do this again, nice little tri

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• R

  Did the event in 2016

  Superb event, would recommend to anyone as a first, or someone chasing a PB, brilliant for all abilities, spectator friendly and a perfectly ran event

  
  Organiser replied:

  Thanks for taking the time to write a review and very pleased to hear you enjoyed it, from all at UK Triathlon.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I had done the spring Cheshire Triathlon in May, and the course for this event was the same. I really enjoyed it again, not least for the location, and the facilities.
  The organisation was really good, and the Nantwich brine pool is fantastic. I knew I would find the water quite cold, so I had a pre-swim cold shower on the poolside- this took my breath away but made the pool water feel warm. The bike course is on quiet lanes and there were plenty of marshals and signs. As the run is 4 laps of the park where car parking and supporters are all gathered, you end the NW Triathlon surrounded by support, buoyant music, and commentary., and it’s also possible to end the event with a post-race picnic. I think it’s a very good first triathlon, and a good one for people who want to swim outside in an open air pool.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  My first tri. Generally v good. Lots of good info online beforehand etc. Course was pretty good.

  Was on poolside in time for race brief but it didn’t happen in time for my start time. T1 was a little cramped. Results took ages to be posted online.

  Otherwise, very easy to participate. I’ll be back.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  My first triathlon and an excellent event in every area, but where were the toilets at the start/finish?

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2016

  I was in 2 monds whether to do this event, specially in light of the horrendous weahter forecast, however, I am so glad I did. They day is extremely well organised from start to finish and I have to give a very special mention to all the marshals. I wouldnt fancy standing round for for 6 hours+ in that weather. It's one thing completing, but the stand around, and still be that encouraging to all athletes is a super human effort. Much Kudos to all. Also, just random people, not even spectators were so encouraging. Lovely people in that part of the World. Walkers, people waiitng for buses, everyone clapped and gave encouragement. Organisation was superb. Only small things that I feel could be improved were:1) The transition area was on sloping grass. Which became very very muddy. It made transition very hard. Supose it would have been fine in the sunshine, but I would have prefered this to be on flat concrete. maybe the car park?2) The timing. I do prefer to have all trasitions seperat ein my time. So Swim, T1, bike, T2, Run. However. It was split into Swim+T1, Bike+T2, Run. I know its only a minor gripe, and may be down to cost, but just my opinion. The run is very off-road and slippy uneven surfaces. This is explained well before sign up and in the welcome pack. Not for the faint hearted (or ankled!).But in summary. Great event. Really really well run and marshaled and hope to be back next year (in the sunshine hopefully)

  
  Organiser replied:

  Transition is now back in it's original position on hard concrete (the grass area was temporary whilst our old area was being sold to new owners).

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• R

  Did the event in 2016

  Very well organised, great course with great support. Weather was absolutely horrendous but didn't dampen any spirits. The rain did contribute to a very muddy transition area, which only got worse as the day went on.

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• R

  Did the event in 2016

  "The bike and run are a bit hilly" said the lovely poolside marshal giving the pre-race brief. She wasn't wrong. Undulating, challenging and scenic, that's what you're faced with on the bike and run. But let's start with the swim and work through.Following an easy and efficient registration I was guided to transition by ever smiling marshals (not easy on such a cold and wet day) and was soon set up. Happy with my transition area I headed to the pool. Due to the pool and transition being a couple of hundred metres apart the organisers recommmend taking a pair of trainers to leave at the exit of the pool and I must say the organisation and help here are good and a beginner's nerves would be well eased. Twenty lengths in a lovely warm pool and off to T1.T1 and T2 are in the same place and if I had any criticism it would be that it was all a bit tight in here. However, due to the staggered start times it didn't feel too crowded when I was in there. From T1 and out onto the bike route. A tough climb from the off had me looking at my speed and thinking I'd be out there all day. Despite this once I'd reached the top of the first climb and shifted onto the big ring things felt much better. The route is interesting, scenic and in places very quick. I loved it. The final couple of miles are a climb back into Horwich, leaving the legs wearied for the run.T2 was muddier now but not horrible and the run is ahead. A hard, multi-terrain, climb to the landmark pike and an almost vertical final 100 metres to the summit is tough but the pay off is a much easier descent back to the finish.Epic Events had the road closed and finishing beneath the gantry on the road felt great.The weather kept supporters to a minimum but the marshals were friendly and supportive.On a personal note I suffered debilitating cramp at T2 and on and I must thank the marshals for their supportive words leaving for the run and on completion. Thanks!

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  This was the first time I’d raced here, it was very well organised and would definitely do this again.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  Had a fab weekend, we were lucky enough to get a caravan pitch right next to the finish line which made everything so at hand. The registration was really easy and the officials/marshalls were really helpful. The lake was pretty shallow and had quite a bit of bird muck which stunk, other than that everything was great and can't wait for next years event.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  southport Triathlon has quickly become one of my goals of my year, absolutely love racing locally and the fact this is one of British triathlons premier events offering qualifying for European championships etc (not that I was anywhere near the AG team this year) registration was a doddle, and made race day a breeze, the guys at epic events know what they're doing (I know I Marshall for them regularly) and this shows in how easy they make thing a for the athletes. Nice warm swim, albeit in a smelly lake, then a closed road bike leg (who doesn't love that?) and a lovely flat as a pancake run around the lake. I'll be back and hopefully fighting fit next time

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From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I have done the West Lancs Sprint Tri and this is exactly the same in every way. Very well organised event, probably the best i have done. The Bike route is 3 loops of a course which means that you are always near other cyclists. The run is a mazy affair through the residential complex which is ok but you cant really get into a rhythm as you are constantly turning corners.

  This year (2018) was the wettest on record according to the marshalls. I genuinely thought i got wetter on the run than i did in the pool ! it was fantastically supports which really lifted your spirits as everyone was laughing about how bad the weather was !

  I cant really fault this event and will be booking for the spring and summer ones next year.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  first time I’ve done this race as i had heard good things about it, it’s held at edge hill university campus in the new sports centre, it’s a great clean up to date venue.as it’s pool swim you set off in waves, the pool is great for spectators as they can watch from 3sides.its a small run out onto the all weather pitch for t1 all good underfoot thoughbike course is 3 laps of a very quiet course 90 of the roads are really smooth it’s a cracking speedy coursethe run is 5 k around the campus which although is quite twisty and turny flows quite well, was very surprised how nice the campus is landscaping is great which gives a good run route it’s run 2 times a year it’s got everything really fantastic for first timers wanting to test themselves on their firs tri but also great for people wanting a quick race

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• R

  Did the event in 2016

  This was my second time at this event and yet again it didn't disappoint.Easy and friendly registration, a large transition area and good ride and run routes.Being a slow swimmer I was an early starter but there was already a buzz about the event as many competitors brought family and friends to support.The pool is great and after the safety briefing I had a good swim and headed to transition. Now it is worth noting that it is a bit of trek to transition from the pool but it's manageable bare-foot, bit you can leave shoes at the exit to the pool if you want.Transition is large and I had plenty of room. Quickly into the helmet and bike shoes and off I went for the bike leg. Three laps of a pleasant and well signed course later and I was back for the final transition.After dismounting the bike it's another long jog to your transition spot but not too difficult. Bike shoes off and trainers on I set off on the run.The run route is very twisty to begin with but its nice enough through the university grounds. The finish on the athletics track is great and there was lots of support.This is a great Triathlon for both beginners or more experienced triathletes.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was our first triathlon, we entered for the Guantlet, the half ironman distance. Overall, this has to be one of the best experiences of my life. The day was hot but the feed stations etc. were all good. It was a great challenge and one I am pleased to have completed and now I am up for more. There is only one thing which has been on my mind since the race was the A road used for a large portion of the ride (just under a third). We prepared ourselves by reading the course breakdown in great detail on multiple occasions. The cycle route for the Guantlet riders was a 3 loop course, however, 30km of the 96km ride was on one of the busiest A roads I have cycled on in my life, living in London I am no stranger to traffic. 10km of the circuit (30km total) was on a truly frightening road. I experienced several missed calls myself and witness multiple others. I was shocked to say the least and it was a scary thought knowing I had to hit that road two more times. At least 5 km of it was badly maintained with potholes etc. The briefing and route card did say it was a busy road but if I was go for a sunday ride, I would never choose that road, and I imagine most locals don't cycle it. Much of the road markings were solid lines for both sides of the road, this should make for some sensible driving and caustious (albiet illegal) overtaking of cyclists, nothing further from the truth could be true. If the local council will not allow for the road to be closed for the event (which I can understand) the route therefore needs to be addressed by the organisers. I am honestlysurprised I did not hear of or see any serious accidents. I totally understand that sections of the race might need to hit busy road, but a serious effort needs to be made to try avoid it at all costs. 30km on that road - I did not feel safe and was relieved when we finished the ride. I am not one to leave reviews normally, but I had to get that off my chest. I would like to highlight that this really was one of the best things I have ever done, and it has not put me off entering for another half iron or a castle series tri. I do feel that the cycle route needs to be reviewed though, for a duty of care and safety perspective. I think most competitors would be happy to do 4 loops of a shorter circuit if it means avoiding that road. The rest of the route was well marshalled and I certainly felt safe.Thanks to anyone who does read this.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This is the first year i have completed this event (The Gauntlet) and i must say, i thoroughly enjoyed it.Lovely venue, beautiful countryside, support from the locals/ spectators was great.Well thought out course, overall i thought it was a pretty seamless event from regristration through to completion. Thanks Castle Tri series for a great day!

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Fantastic, friendly and well organised race.  Camping next to the start line can't be beaten. First time at a Gauntlet, but the friendliness of the other competitors and marshalls and well stocked feed stations made it an awesome day in the sunshine. The choir at the top of the climb on the bike route was a nice touch!  God job as always Castle Series team.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  After the course change concerns had passed this event was great to do. organisation was really good - the split transition is frustrating for preparation and slightly less post-race, but doesn't impact actual race. The swim was in Pennington Flash and with the recent heat wave and blue green algae was very pleased that it went ahead - some challenges with the swim into the sun, and the smell but otherwise a lovely swim. Bike was tough, an altered course because of the fires sheephouse was replaced with a shorter sharper hill and Hunters Hill was a challenge particular;y second time, the course is beautiful and I always try to remember to take a look around when on the bike on longer events. The big plus for IMUK is the suppport - they crowds out on the bike course are brilliant and help you get up the climbs. Out onto the run from the town centre - 4 loops of a challenging route with a steep and the gentle incline with the reverse on the way back in - it was very warm, feed stations were excellent and the support again was amazing. It became a bit of a run walk task after 10 miles as the heat and miles took their toll. Crossing the line was emotional - glad the challenge was over, thankful for the support on the day and from famil and friends leading up to the event and ecstatic to have run down the red carpet and finished. A brilliant race, with amazing support - looking for next IM race now.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  I may be a little biased about Ironman UK seeing as I live on the bike course, but having been both athlete and spectator it is one of the best days of the year!!Never been a fan of swimming, but the “Australian exit” certainly helped to break it up a little bit for me.The bike course is a great one, lumpy and bumpy for the majority, but can certainly pick up a bit of speed on particular sections. The support through Adlington and up Babylon Lane is phenomenal! Babylon Lane in particular is an emotional moment when your friends and family are there to cheer you on, but also so is the whole village, lining the streets like a scene from TdF!However, the support on the run is second to none. Even towards the end, there were still plenty of locals and local Tri clubs out there supporting everyone! Advice for anyone thinking of doing it - recce the course! Both bike and run. Sheephouse Lane and Hunters Hill are not for the faint hearted, especially twice! And there’s a couple of cheeky hills on the run that you don’t think of until race day.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  All I can say is that for my first Ironman,  the whole weekend experience was amazing.I regisered and attended the race brief on Friday evening in one of the hospitality suites at the macron stadium,  which was a bit different to the normal bloke standing on a crate with a megaphone! Already the ironman atmosphere was there and I felt part of it. This was it, it was happening.  On the Saturday I set up my transitions, and despite being a split transition all seemed to go relatively smoothly. There were more than enough helpful volunteers to help, tell you which bag went where etc. Being a first timer I was given an additional "become one" wristband,  so that marshals etc. would be aware and able to offer any additional support and advice, which I thought was a nice touch.Sunday morning and very hassle free bus transfer from the car park at the stadium to the swim start, and it was time to nut up or shut up! The memory of AC⚡DC Thunderstruck playing at the countdown to the start as we all stood there still sends shivers down my spine.Off we went,  and into  the 2 lap swim. Have to say the water was seriously murky, and the in ramps for the 2 laps were so steep it was impossible not to slip and end up shuffling in on your backside, but otherwise, well a swims a swim. Onto the bike and out towards Rivington reservoir, and this was where you first started to experience the unbelievable support from the locals,  the streets we lined with whole families out to watch and cheer the lunatics in lycra.Soon came the first ascent of the infamous Sheephouse lane,  which as it turned out wasn't much of a deal as far as climbs go. Despite it being grey and drizzling on this first lap, the absolute legends of the Sheephouse lane fancy dress party were there doing their thing,  and raising morale and motivation. Big respect to them. Some rolling countryside followed, then came Hunters hill, were once again the crowd support defied belief. It was a cacophony of noise and people surrounding you, patting you on the back from both sides like it was the summit of Alpe D'Huez. The weather brightened up for the second lap, which was a bonus, but nonetheless i was incredibly glad to get off the bike at the end. The bike course was well marshalled and clearly signed,  my only criticism, which is clearly out of the hands of the organisers would be the state of the roads in some places, have to be some of the worst road surfaces I've seen in the UK.The first part of the run was a bit of a meander to join the main run loop, a 3 lap out n back in the town along Chorley new road. When youv'e oin the loop, and seen people sporting lap bands, it seems like a lifetime u til you pick up your first on, and paranoia sets in, and you start thinking "did I miss it, am I going to end up running an extra loop?" But once you've experienced the crowds in the city centre and pick up your first one on the way back along the long stretch of Chorley new road, this fears are alleviated. The long road has a steady gradual climb on it, which for me started taking it's toll on the second lap, and there is a sharp little climb just before you go into the city centre. Once in the centre you get to experience the crowds and music and carnival atmosphere, and you completely forget that your body is working on reserves and near breaking point! By this time the sun was out, and locals with hosepipes were a welcome sight, in fact the entire length of the fun loop was literally wall to wall cheering crowd.As you enter the city centre for the final time you see the finish line that has taunted you every time you had to run past, but this time you run down the carpet, and under the gantry to those immortal words "You are an Ironman!" and I have to say, as a first timer, that was just the most awesome feeling ever!That was it , job done, I am an ironman!

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2015

  Well run friendly event. 750m in Boundary water park about 50 to a wave. 23k bike leg open roads good signage uses part of the CTT j2/9 TT course. Run partly off road. Transition very close to lake. Sells out quickly as lots of NW club members enter. Novice friendly would be a good intro to first open water tri. Has two transitions in different locations so read your race brief if it's your first time.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  all the plaudits this event gets are well deserved. Brilliantly organised race in and around Chester. I registered the day before to save the stress of registering on race day and was really leased with the legendary goody bag which is the first goody bag that I have had that was actually worth something, plenty of nutrition in there along with locklaces, racebelt technical shirt etc.the day of the race was slickLy organised too, with a well ordered transition and a race briefing worth listening too (watch for the piranhas)the swim was a river swim with 800m up hill then a cruise back down to the boathouse pub, a little bit of current to contend with but nothing outrageous.carpeted uphill, including steps up to transition and then onto a rolling pretty bike course with 250m of climb into wales with some dual carriageway, some closed roads, villages.backt to transition for the 3 lap run, which was tough in the heat, but knowing that I was passing an aid station with bottled water every lap helped me make it to the finish line to receive a chunky medal and fluffy embroidered bath towel along with coke, sweeties and Jaffa cakes.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Third time doing chester, but first time doing the middle. great value for money at under £100 if u get in early, rolling start swim which meant no fighting for space, 2 lap bike with little climbing and plenty of opportunity to get your head down. Pot holes marked as best as possible, which always helps. Run course is 3 laps, with a little bit on fields (which in the rain might be tricky i guess). plenty of water at aid stations despite the hot weather.The olympic distance filtered in on the second lap of the bike, but at no point did it feel crowded out on the road - if anything they helped give targets to go after. Goody bag is great - race belt, towel, hoodie, race t shirt, bottle, nuun tablets, cliff bar, laces etc. Plus a huge, quality medal. Parking is cheap and in no short supply due to the deal with the council, which is another good point.Plenty of people to cheer you on the run and loads of marshalls at every point on the bike, including the roundabout which did have potential to be alittle messy with competitors crossing. I don't think they good improve it to much to be honest and really surprised that this doesn't get a much bigger billing in the tri world.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  Completed the standard and the half here. Half is very good value for money and well timed as a pre Ironman UK race. River swim, rolling bike and flat run. The run is great for spectators. Great location in Chester city centre for the race.Friendly and helpful team that run the race.

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