2013 Castle Series kicks off in Ireland
The Markel Castle Triathlon Series has a sunny start at Lough Cutra
Over 400 competitors enjoyed glorious sunshine at the Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon, Gort, Co. Galway yesterday (Sunday 26th May). The event, which is just in its second year, attracted first timers, children, families and elite triathletes from across Ireland and the UK, racing either in teams or by themselves.
Competitors and spectators enjoyed the course accompanied by a festival atmosphere including: Irish piper and live band, children’s entertainment and food as the event soaked up the sunshine.
The international team challenge saw an intense race before Team GB claimed the winning €1,000 prize money. First over the line, and winner of the Olympic distance, was David Bishop (Bike Science – Boardman Elite) with a new course record of 2 hours, 3 minutes and 45 seconds. Second home was his Team GB peer Nick Beer (Total Fitness Bath) with Team Ireland’s Matt Molloy (Team Freespeed Virgin Active) taking the final place on the podium. The female team members also gave a strong performance with Amy Wolfe from Cork finishing in first place.
Many families took part as races cater for children from 8 years to 15 years of age. Dublin family the Fahys, from Dalkey, were all competing in their first triathlon – Mum, Orla, and Dad, Nick, successfully completed the Viscount Gough Sprint while Richard and Patrick did the Teal (13-5), James the Cormorant (11-12) and Kate enjoyed the Widgeon for 8-10 year olds.
As well as enjoying race challenges, many competitors use the events to fundraise for good causes and charities. Local charity partners for the event are the Sunni Mae Trust and Coole F.C. who provided marshals for the triathlon.
Registration is now open for The 2014 Markel Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon taking part on Sunday 25th May 2014. New features for 2014 will include:
The Gauntlet, Half iron distance, 1.9km swim/90km bike/21km run
Open water and training day at Lough Cutra Castle
School triathlon programme
Registration is now open, don’t miss the special early bird discount at www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk.
Matt Baird
Editor of Cycling Plus magazine 
