Who’s up for a new Olympic distance triathlon in beautiful North Devon? The Croyde Ocean Triathlon promises an exhilarating 1.5km sea swim in the Atlantic Ocean, a punishing 40km bike route along coastal roads with some steep hills thrown in, and finished with a demanding 12km trail run.
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With just 300 spots available, the race will start at Putsborough Sands, with marshals recruited from Croyde Surf Lifesaving Club to keep athletes safe in the water. Once out of the ocean, competitors will begin the gruelling bike route, designed by pro cyclist Chris Green, who marked out the London 2012 Olympic bike course and is heavily involved in the Tough Mudder events.
The bike course will take athletes through the villages of Croyde and Braunton before they start a challenging climb towards the town of Ilfracombe, then send them down a fast downhill stretch into the town, before returning them back to Putsborough via the hamlets of Pickwell and Pickwell Manor.
The trail run will require competitors to ‘dig deep’ as they embark on this hilly (and possibly muddy, sheep-filled) route. An inspiring run devised by local athletes the route is an additional 2km longer than the usual Olympic tri distance as it allows the competitors to take in the panoramic views of Putsborough, Saunton and Croyde bay.
Event organiser Mike Morris said: "The course makes for a tough triathlon but we want to encourage everyone to take part whether you are an experienced triathlete or this is your first one. We want people to see the event as a great way to get fit, set themselves a challenge, and raise money for charity."
The event takes place on Saturday 11 July with online entry and registration now live at www.croydeocean.co.uk. Entry is £55 for individuals, £84 for a relay team, and £55 minimum entry cost for The Ventia Corporate Challenge Team.
Will you be entering the Croyde Ocean Triathlon? Let us know in the comments below!