Following days of warm, balmy weather, on Bank holiday Monday and Triathlon day the rain poured down. Making roads slippery and muddy in places causing several fast cyclists to fall off! The emphasis is on fast – those right at the end of the field did not take any chances and took it carefully [that’s my excuse].
The swim was 400m followed by the cycle of 13 miles. It was a tough cycle with driving rain [for some] and several hills, particularly the steep climb up Hubbards Hill. You had to be there to experience the full challenge of this mini mountain at the end of the 13 miles. The 5km run was a pleasant cross country out and back in Knole Park and finishing on Sevenoaks School running track
Nine Bromley Veterans competed and as the results below indicate there were some excellent performances. Although she will not thank me for drawing attention to her age, Helen James deserves special praise. Helen is 72 and a super, super vet. How many women of 72 do you know who can swim 400m in approximately 10 minutes, cycle 13 miles in 1 hour 17 minutes and run 5km in 33.35 minutes?
Transition time between swim, cycle and run is included in each competitors final time. Finisher number 254 can actually swim 400m in about 10 minutes; 17.45 represents the walk from pool to bike and the struggle to put my shoes on! More practice is evidently necessary. Well done to everyone who took part and good luck in the forthcoming triathlon season.