September was an incredibly busy time for Aycliffe Tri Club with members racing at iconic venues taking in some of the most beautiful scenery.
Sunday 7th September saw Michelle Scott and Andy Sedgwick in the legendary Helvellyn Triathlon. Michelle took on the one mile open water swim in the cold waters of Ullswater then as part of a relay team Andy battled the 38 mile bike section (including the dreaded Kirkston Pass) and the 9 mile 3118ft run up Helvellyn. This was a challenging event for both athletes who plan to return and tackle this challenging course again.
On Sunday 21st September Tri Club members were at three different events across the North of England, each with its own difficulties (These Triathletes never take the easy option!). Teesdale Triathlon saw three members taking on the sprint with a 400m swim, 18 mile bike and 3 mile run. First home for the club coming 4th in her group Melanie Rowland in 1hr 39. Next home Alan Kellet 10th in his group in 1hr 43 followed by Mick Casey in 1hr 51.
Wendy Bake travelled across the country to race at Penrith Sprint Triathlon a very hilly course with Wendy knocking 3 mins off her previous time and finishing in 1hr 36mins.
Over at Hartlepool Michelle Scott and Dan Halladay entered the marina to race in Hartlepool Big Lime Sprint Triathlon. Dan Halladay was first man out of the water and finished the event in 1hr 12mins with Michelle Scott who was first lady out of the water, finished 6th lady over all in 1hr 18mins.
This has been a fantastic year for Aycliffe Tri Club who would like to thank all members for their continued support and dedication. The club’s coaches are looking forward to next season and helping club members achieve their goals.
If you are interested in Triathlon and would like further details please visit www.aycliffetriclub.onsport.com – email aycliffetriclub@gmail.com – or come and talk to the coaches at Woodham Community College Pool on a Wednesday night at 7pm (term time only)
Wendy Bake, Club Coach