Triathlons in Wales

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  As always with an Activity Events Wales race it was very slick and well organised.

  This is a great event for those just starting out in multi sport or for those of us that have been beasting ourselves for a few years!

  I'm going to get the bad point out the way early, this race (for a sprint) is really expensive! nigh on £80 for a sprint is lots of ££££'s.

  the good points, a nice afternoon race (4pm start for my wave) not having to get up at 5am to travel was brilliant, the finish in the square is really goof and my wife said it was brilliant for the spectators.

  The swim is in one of the docks and pretty quick, a longish run to t1 and then out on a closed road (may explain the high cost of the race) multi lap pan flat bike course and then onto a lovely seaside run before the run down the red carpet to finish in the town square.

  This race would get 5/5 from me if it wasn't so costly.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  My first time at sprint triathlon distance so I was extremely nervous. I didn't need to be as this event was very well organised and the helpers/wardens etc along the course were excellent.Even when I emailed last week about my starting Wave the advice I received was brilliant (and the response immediate).The transition area was very well layed out with each Wave clearly marked. Bikes were checked going in, and checked again going out (for security). Officials were on hand to ask answer any questions. I had several - all were dealt with.Once the bike and kit was set it was back over to change into my wetsuit and then after an hour waiting around over to the swim start. Wave One went first after their briefing - some ahead of the start point. Once they started it was time for my briefing. Very good too. Plenty of nervous first timers. The into the cold Swansea Dock water.30 second warning was given and then the hooter went. Off we go. I stayed at the back as I was worried about being swam over. As it happens I overtook several people but ended up fighting my way around as some people clearly were not looking where they were going. The final 100 metres as we swum towards the exit point was also tough as everyone tried to fit into a two metre wide exit gate. By this time I was more ruthless (having learnt quickly) and just swam - regardless of who was around. Marshall helped me up onto the ramp as I was a bit dizzy.Short 350metre run over to transition and onto the bike. Race Referee's in attendance to watch we were doing it all correcntly. I was - and off out onto the flat course. Love it. I thought I was going fast, but the guys on Aero bikes were flying along. Amazing to watch.Once the bike was done it was out onto the promenade for the run. There is no better than Swansea on a nice day. 5k in and it was the finish at Castle Gardens and a roaring crowd.I pulled my kids over the barrier and they ran with me to the finish line where they too had a medal.Done.So final thoughts - what an amazing event, helped by the Sun being out and the crowds turning out in force. As a new triathlete I would recommend this event to all those thinking about going into it. From registration through to the race day it has gone really well.My only real complaint - I took my family (wife and two children, 7 and 5). There was not much for them to do during the day. A few mobile ice cream vans would have been handy. The lack of toilet cubicles around was also an issue. There should have been some around the transition area. Several of the pubs had free toilets for the day - but not ideal taking two young children in and out.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  A great race for my first triathlon. Looking forward to next years event already!

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Loved Cardiff Tri - completed as my second Olympic distance. Registration day before was nice and easy, good set up of stalls to grab some clobber and we got socks, a cow bell, foam hand and energy bar on sign up. Race start was delayed due to buoys not being set up, but only 10mins or so. Swim goes off in waves at 5 mins intervals and are mixed genders (not what I’d seen before) but was fine. I had issues navigating the swim but I think that’s my poor sighting rather than the course. Transition was easy to navigate and the bike course was 3 13km laps, so ran slightly short at 39km. It was fast and flat, saw one nastyish crash the other side - but I think they caught the turn too quickly. Run was 2 laps over the barrage - very exposed and hot but I love the views of the Bay here. Ran short at around 9km which was quite frustrating as I was pacing for 10km but ah well, the massive crowds at the end and name check as I crossed the line was pretty epic. Nice medal too.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  i was doing the Olympic distance.The event is centred around Cardiff Bay and in particular the Millennium Centre, outside of which is the large transition area. I picked up my race pack on Saturday afternoon, which was stress free and also had some free merch for the kids. Staying in an air B&B appt on Sat night meant the shortest walk to racking on Sunday morning ever. Racking was quite precise, with marshals being very on the ball (not a complaint, just an observation).  There were quite a few confused newbies, nervous enough already and it was a good job there were quite a few others, myself included to help them get organised, but actually this gave transition a relaxed feel overall. The swim start is a short walk, but far enough for the use of flip flops if you have supporters at the start or disposable towel slips from a hotel trip. The swim is in the calm of the bay and it is a lovely swim. There are not a lot of marker buoys so the field does spread out quickly. The bike course is closed roads, but the road surface is rough and there are a lot of turns. I completed on a TT bike, but might consider my road bike next time, as I think with the handling and acceleration out of the corners, I would be quicker. The run is a super flat out and back affair, with two laps. I loved the view running on the barrage and was really able to get the legs going. There are a couple of narrow pinch points on the run, so be polite and people will make way for a speedy runner. The run is exposed, so if the weather is not good be prepared, not an issue this year. The event was very well supported (this years weather might have helped) with the locals getting very involved.The organisers athlete tracking app is really good for your supporters and gave accurate splits on the day, in real time (quite a surprise given some out there).In summary a really good Olympic distance event, in a great location and well supported. Well done AAH Events and Cardiff for keeping it closed roads.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I signed up for this September 2017 and this will be my first Olympic. I’ve heard good things about.   Flat bike and flat run. Online registration was easy. Collection of packs the day before (and I think the morning of) and a walk through the mini expo was easy. Lots of freebies with the race pack (cow bell, sponge finger, gel). Race day, easy to get to and park. Tranistion was large and easy to set up. Race brief was ok, a little hard to hear and follow what they were saying about the swim as the buoys where not our yet. The race was delayed due to safety people where not set up. Wave one was in the water for awhile before they could start. Swim was calm. Trainsition was easy. The bike is flat, three laps (you need to count them). Some of the road is rough and nothing picturesque about the bike. Good for support as it’s lapped. A lot of drafting exspecially when the sprint competitors were on courses. Next trainsition was easy. Run was two laps. A water station farther down the course is needed. Spectators were in the way on the run. It needed to be tapped off and marshalled better here. Finish chute was good. Food and drink after finishing had a good selection. Medal was nice. If you want a tshirt you need to pre order  or buy one at the venue  No changing or showing facilities. Support was good. Lots of races after the Olympic so the crowd is still there. Being in the bay, lots of food and drink options post run. Car parks near. I will race this again. Value for money, my option as it’s closed roads. So it’s worth it.

  Read more

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.

  Read more

• 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!

  Read more

• 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.

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2016

  Took part in the sprint tri in 2016. First ever open water triathlon, and was hooked from then on! The swim location is fantstic, bay is sheltered in most wind conditions so ideal for triathlon. Exit from sea is really easy up the slip way, so no scrambling through the sand. Bike has a few hills and tight bends to make it interesting and challenging, and the run along the beach is a good test at the end of the race! Great finishing line on the beach. Missed it in 2017 due to other commitments, but planning a return in 2018!

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  As a first time competitor I am unable to compare this event with any other triathlons. The only issue I had was with other road users on the course. I appreciate that exclusive road use is was probably not an option in this case. Apart from the one minor point above, everything else appeared to be very well organised and executed. There is a very strong chance I would do the same event again.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I did this event in 2015 when I first started having a go at multisport events and have been back in 2016 and 2017 to do lane counting at the Lido. So this year, I was really keen to come back again to race the course and see how much I could improve on my previous time.Registration was very straightforward. I don't have a printer at home so I hadn't signed my waiver but there were plenty on hand to do on the day. Once I had shown my ID, I was given my pack of bike and helmet stickers and the number tattoos for your arms and legs.I was checked into transition quickly and found my stickered spot to set up in. There were a few porta loos around with very little queuing and very helpful marshals to help you put on your tattoos. The medical team were easy to spot too, so you felt safe before starting.The race briefing was on time, very thorough and with clear instructions of how the race would start. There were lots of safety points, reminders on not dropping litter and respecting other road users. Plus, the all important reminder to only do 12 lengths as the pool is 33m long! After the swim, you run up some steps towards transition and you're encouraged by the most fantastic Shouting Man who will make sure your path is clear for you. He is quite a regular at DBMax events, and he truely makes my race when he's there!The bike course is very hilly but with some quick descents too as well as being beautifully picturesque along the coastal road and through the villages on the way. The only gripe I have is that the road surface is very rough and full of holes all the way around. There is obviously absolutely nothing DB Max can do about this but it just made the hills hurt even more!The run is a mixture of tarmac and trail. It's very pretty along the esplanade and the costal path and again, it has 2 significant hills thrown in for fun. There is a water station on the run, that you pass twice, with eco-friendly cups full of water and Jelly Babies too.The support on Battery point and surrounding the Lido is really encouraging. However, other supporters and athletes who have already finished, tend to mill about on the esplanade without looking where they're going. I found myself dodging a few dogs and children on my way back in. Once up another set of steps, you do a short loop of the field around a tree and then across the finish line. As I finished, there was a huge tanker sailing across the Severn Estuary which you certainly don't get at every triathlon! DBMax also call out your name as you cross the line which really lifts your spirits.Once at the finish tent, you are given your medal and your timing chip is removed then you have a huge table full of treats to choose from. I always go for a jelly snake and I really like the Pulsin bars that are now regularly appearing at DBMax events.Overall, I made a 13 minute improvement on my 2015 time. Then, I was 64th female and 44th in my age category. Today, I was 20th female and 12th in my age category which rounded my day off perfectly.Thank you DBMax!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  2017 was the 3rd time I've done this race and I love it more every time! ! It short enough for the beginner but the bike has 3 good climbs in and the run has two short but sharp climbs in  , enough to satisfy the more experienced athlete ! This is a reasonably tough race but still suitable for the first-time and to cap it off it is run by DB MAX and everything they are involved in is great ! Bring on 2018

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  Once again Activety Wales put on a really good race, the atmosphere at their events is brilliant, they always get tehlocals out to support. The course is a tough one with some steep climbs on the bike and run but the beauty of the Gower scenary easily distracts you from the tired legs!A great value race and one I'm sure I'll be back to do again.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2016

  Organised by activity Wales who are used to doing some pretty big events so the organisation at this event was top notch. The setting is beautiful. This event manages to maintain the feel of a small friendly triathlon but combine it with expert organisation. Even the rain couldn't dampen the marshals and spectators spirits.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2016

  didn't have a chance to register Friday evening sonatas flapping turning up, but it was all made very straight forward with little stress, breifing was nice an In depth which was appreciated as I didn't have time to completely go through the race pack with a fine tooth comb. Enjoyed the race as everything was laid on very clearly and efficiently. Volunteers were superb and encouraging which made the event even better as the weather conditions weren't great. Really enjoyed, thank you guys

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was my first attempt at a triathlon, so was very nervous. However I needn't have been, Activity Wales are great at organising events in a way that caters for all. The regular triathletes were all in their zone while the newbies - and there were a few of us - were all made to feel welcome. The briefing before the event was clear and helpful. My main worry was how to get in a out of transition. But all was explained clearly. The lady who was on bike racking was lovely and didn't make me a feel a total numpty when I went to rack without my helmet on! The marshals were fab, stood in proper Pembrokeshire weather - wet! They smiled every time I saw them. As for the finish line and bling - well - safe to say I wasn't disappointed, I'm so glad I took the plunge into triathlon and I will be back again next year! Thank you all to all involved in putting on such a great event!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Went to wales to watch a few of our guys watch do ironman wales so thought id give this triathlon a go. It didn't disappoint the area is stunning and the whole event was excellent well aside from the weather which made it slightly more interesting.
  I registered the day before the event in the village hall its was all very thought of and simple. Racking took place on the day in the mariner car park and it was pouring it down, there was no numbered places for bikes so you just put your bike and kit in the next available space which worked better than expected.
  The sea was calm giving how the weather was and didn't see that many jellyfish. The crowds around the transition area and start of the bike course were amazing, the bike course itself was 2 laps of the area and took in some nice climbs and seriously twisting descents the weather played it part here too as people were coming off their bikes all over the place. The run course was a there and back run along the sea front through some tunnels and this is my only gripe with the event running through those tunnels it was dark and there was very little lighting made worse by the fact that you had people coming at you from the other direction fortunately i saw no collisions.
  Plenty of support towards the finish line and a nice chunk of metal to hang round you neck.The results website also had a finish line video and a downloadable certificate which i thought was a nice touch. All in all a great event apart from the weather.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  A lovely race. A beautiful setting. Great support throughout the course.

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  The sun was shining and had a great race.  Excellent organisation and can highly recommend as an early season opener.  Also great goodies including village bakery crumpets and Welsh cakes at the end!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2016

  My attached blog post says it all  - http://wp.me/p71jWC-3h

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• P

  Peter P

  Did the Ultimate 1/4 Triathlon in 2018

  That was beautiful thr race. Everything was good, atmosphere, organisations and weather as well. And yes I will do it again.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I have compeated in many of the events hosted by UKtriathlon over the last 5 years and I can not fault any of them. The venues are superb, from open water swims in lovely clean, weed free lakes to a unique Brine pool in Nantwich.Cycle and run routes have super friendly marshalls, fantastic feed stations along with well naviged routes for competitors to navigate around. Spectator friendly for loved ones to cheer and support you on your big day. I can't fault the team at UK Triathlon, I have seen the efforts that they go to to make our competition day run a smoothly and enjoyable.The race briefings are excellent, safty is one of the many key point put across. Value for money is excellent, the events cater for all abilities and has to be the most friendliest events I've ever been to - they are a must 'Tri' events and I can't recommend the team enough. A huge THANK YOU and WELLDONE for all your hard efforts. Keep up the hard work, it's greatfully apprichated.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  The ultimate triathlon uk - an utterly amazing experience that I will never forget ! A massive thankyou to all the team who supported me throughout- I would not have crossed that finish line without them . This event will will change your life - go on and get out there and have a go !!!! Thanks team

  
  Organiser replied:

  Hi Jane Thank you so much for those lovely comments I will make sure we pass it on to the race crew and marshals. Congratulations on your 2nd place as well, I hope your trophy is pride of place in your house? :)

  Read more

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.

  Read more

• 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.

  Read more

• 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.

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• A

  Alexander P

  Did the Legend 71.6 in 2018

  I completed the snowman legend 71.6 on Sunday August 5th. It was my first half iron man triathlon and my first time to Wales. I travelled from Norfolk 300 miles away opposite side of Country. When I signed up initially I did not realise the physical toughness of the event I just wanted to take the next step up from Olympic distance. The final 5 miles run up and down Moel siabod was a real test of mental strength. I finished in 23 rd position, and sub 7 hours so I was very happy. I am proud to be a snowman legend and Snowdonia has a piece of my heart. Alexander pennington.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Really enjoyed this race at Plas y Brenin. It was a nice lake swim and the temperature was a warm 16.5 degrees. Mass start which made it a bit chaotic at the start but a nice large well marked out lake. The bike course was a nice run into Betws-y-coed with a loop and then back uphill and back to the mountain centre. The run was a trail run with a tough climb in the middle. Overall a well organised event, well sign posted, with excellent marshals. Really enjoyed taking part in the race and would recommend the race to other triathletes who like to race in beautiful surroundings.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  What a day of racing, this is an amazing race, so full of sights, sounds and fantastic support.It all starts of at plas y brenin, national mountain center in north wales, with a 400 mtr swim in lyn mymbyr (be warned it can be cold) before a 200mtr run into T1.T1 is superbly organised with rows of racking where you change out of your wetsuit to start the 31k bike ride.This goes from the center down along the A5 towards betws y coed past swollow falls then left along the A470 to llanrwst turning left again on the return leg to betws then right back along the A5 to plas y brenin.Upon returning to transistion you change into your running gear for the 5k run 1st heading out and back to a turning point besides the A5 on trail witch is well directed.back to the transistion area you proceed up the beginning of moel siobad turning off and back to the finish line.This is an excellent starter for a 1st time tri as it isnt to strenious of mountainous but offers excellent views of outstanding beuaty.10/10

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• N

  Nic C

  Did the Sprint & Sprint Relay in 2018

  This was my first triathlon race and i will definitely be entering future tri's! The pre race information was top notch and helped me to get through the event without a hitch. Only thing I wasn't warned about were the race number tattoos.... It was horrid to remove from my leg hair and i resulted in clipping the leg hair off to remove haha! :) A small price to pay for an epic race! Look forward to booking my next race with the let's do this team! Hurrah!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I'd entered this as my first middle distance as I'd enjoyed the South Coast event done by UK tri last year.

  Early registration was opened up a few days before, so I was able to pick up my number the day before, it was still available on the day though. Parking is available nearby in town, though the car park we used was filling up early.
  The bike/transition area was quite big, at least for the early mid distance wave. It's really good to have toilets in the transition area.

  The swim was good, a very wide start area, so not too much of a washing machine start (though the later olympic start looked busier). The two lap route was clearly marked.

  Transition was a short walk on a mat to the bikes, and out through a gate, past some houses and onto a main road. On the whole, the road wasn't too busy, the route was very well signposted and there were marshals at the junctions (I did see a motorbike marshal come past as well). On the second lap there is a feed station with drinks, energy bars, gels, and fresh water bottles.

  The course was undulating, with only a couple of short steepish climbs. There were some quite good straights in parts, but the last 10k or so on both laps was into a headwind and hard.

  Back in transition, you leave through a different gate and out onto the run course. The profile said that this was flat, but there is a rise across an old railway bridge which hurt every time. You initally go out along a road to a turn point, come back and then turn alongside the lake through the woods before going through the transition point. There is a feed station at the turn point with drinks and energy bars, and wonderful encouraging marshals.

  There weren't too many people around by the time we finished, but those who were there were wonderfully encouraging, and there was quite a bit of camaraderie between those at the back, encouraging each other.

  It was a tough day out, and on the whole I enjoyed the event. I'm not sure if I could hack another middle distance, but will do more olympic distances. On the whole, I thought it was well organised by UK triathlon.

  They had run out of my size of T shirt by the end , but made a note of my number to send it onto me (I need to chase them up about this).

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I got there at least an hour and half before my start and was glad because I had to try four different car parks and in the end parked in a lay by and walked back.
  First one I’ve done here and enjoyed it but would have liked some mile markers on both the bike and run as there were none.

  
  Organiser replied:

  Hi Sally, thank you for your comments, we really do appreciate them, we have had some fantastic commetns about the race and some good constructive criticism. We have taken everything on board, esepecially the parking for next year. As for the markers, because the bike course has two laps (middle distance) and a different course (Sprint and Super Sprint) then it is very difficult to put markers out. Thats the same with the run course being multi lapped. So to sumerise, yes we will improve the parking for 2019, but unfortunely we won't be able to put out markers or the two courses. Once again, thank you for your comments and we hope to see you back again next year. Keith (Race Director)

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Well organised. Fantastic support...crowds were amazing. Swimming in the North sea a fantastic experience. Unbelievable scenery on the bike course. Amazing town support for the marathon at the end.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  The week before the race I slammed into a pot hole cycling on my last training ride, then the next day fell over while walking the dog, of course on the same hand. Thinking it was just a sprained wrist I strapped it up, swallowed a few ibuprofen for the week then headed off to Wales.

  Well 112 miles of Welsh hills and tarmac certainly wasn’t what the doctor would have recommended. After 60 miles my right hand was almost numb, a little worrying as this is my rear brake and main gear changing hand, by mile 80 the hand was swelling and trying to burst out my cycling gloves like the hulk. By mile 100 I was in tears.

  I tore off my strapping thinking this was the cause of the swelling as I started the run walking the first hill. As I started running there was immense shooting pain up my arm with every step and the hand continued to swell. I slowed down considerably on lap 3 and as I heard the church bells chime I was about 500m the wrong side of the cut off line.

  I didn’t quit, I didn’t stop, I kept moving forward but instead of a medal I was pulled up 6 miles short ( still longer than Bolton ironman UK this year !)

  3 weeks later with a less swollen wrist strapped up I finished the remaining 6 miles

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Everyone will tell you what a great race this the local support and volunteers are absolutely amazing but £440 you expect a very high level of service.
  I had a few minor issues and questions and attempted to get a response via the twitter account but they didn't even reply.
  My first issue was with the Nutrition partner Envervit, its just not available in the UK, the 3 listed suppliers on they website no longer sell their products.
  Now the number 1 rule of triathlon, don't do anything new on race day is already impossible to follow.
  My second issue I was unaware of until after race day, I travelled down to the race with my wife and we left the kids at home but I promised them if they tracked me they could watch the finish on the internet. Not this year nothing on their own web page or on their Facebook Live page. Why on earth don't they let people know if they are changing the coverage I paid in good faith the service would be as previous years.
  They just don't seem to care about the individual, my friend raced and gave up 20 mins looking after a crashed cyclist and then later missed collecting his finisher T-Shirt. When he contacted the help-desk to discus these issue they didn't even reply. How hard would it be to post it too him maybe they couldn't give his time back but not even replying is too much.

  Read more