Jenson Button set to battle it out at the 2011 Blenheim Triathlon
Tim Don also on course to defend his title
Formula One driver Jenson Button will be racing at the 7th Blenheim Triathlon on Sunday 5th June at 11:30am alongside his girlfriend, model Jessica Michibata. The former Formula 1 World Champion will be competing for the first time at Blenheim, having previously competed in the London Triathlon in 2009 and 2010. Also competing this year is defending champion Tim Don, who is looking to reclaim his 2010 title. Last year, the former world champion triathlete put in a sterling performance of 58:17mins to deny Stuart Hayes a third consecutive victory in Woodstock.
Being The UK’s second largest triathlon, the GE Blenheim Triathlon, which is set in the stunning surroundings of Blenheim Palace, will play host to 5,500 competitors comprising of elite athletes, celebrities, first timers and relay teams. Around 15,000 spectators are also expected to turn up for the swim, bike and run event.
This year will see the event prize money stand at £6,000, divided between male and female elite competitors, with Channel 4 Television broadcasting the race on the 19th June at 7.30am.
Other stars to look out for include Iwan Thomas, the current 400m British record holder and former Olympic, European and Commonwealth games champion, who is competing at Blenheim for the second time.
James Robinson, Managing Director of IMG Mass Participation Sports, said: “We are thrilled to have such a great field competing at Blenheim this year. Tim Don is definitely the man to beat in the elite race and it’s great to have Jenson Button competing at Blenheim for the first time.
“The event itself seems to get bigger and better every year and we are extremely excited about the forthcoming weekend. It is definitely one of the most prestigious triathlons to be involved in, whether taking part or cheering-on competitors during their swim, bike or run.”
Following the success of last year’s Kid’s Zone, Active Kids will return with their fun-filled children’s activity area. Cheer your child on to mini triathlon glory or simply watch them enjoying the giant games, penalty shoot out’s and face painting, which is all on offer throughout the day. Competitions for children over three years old run alongside the day’s main events, allowing the whole family to enjoy a great day out while getting fit and healthy. More information on kids’ race times is available at www.activekids.biz/blenheim-triathlon. Places can be booked in advance.
For further information about the GE Blenheim Triathlon, such as spectating and parking, visit: www.theblenheimtriathlon.com.
Matt Baird
Editor of Cycling Plus magazine 
