Athletes take on challenge of Shrewsbury Triathlon

Hundreds of athletes of all ages and abilities turned out to the Shrewsbury Showground to test themselves in the sprint race organised by the local SY Tri club.

With little rain through the summer the swimmers found little or no current in the River Severn to give them help along the 400 metres course on the river.

Switching to their bikes the competitors then cycled 23 kilometres to Baschurch, passing through Walford where SY Tri member David Hughes was marshalling despite having suffered a stroke earlier this year.

Organiser, Sam Mountain, praised Mr Hughes and all the volunteers who gave up their weekend to set up the course on Saturday and marshall on Sunday.

“We couldn’t do it without the time that our members give up to make sure it is held successfully and safely,” he said.

“David is one of our members and has marshalled at the Walford crossing for four years, becoming well known for his support of the competitors.

“He was determined to be back here this year helping.”

Winner of the men's race was Tom Garbett with the first woman home, Rachel Parker.

The event is one of only a few across the county that incorporates a quadathlon, a four discipline event which includes a canoe section with athletes paddling downstream to Frankwell and back up to the showground between their swim and the bike.

James Block from Shrewsbury was one of those taking part in the Quadathlon taking second place. He said it was good to be able to compete in his home town.

Among those taking part in the Triathlon were husband and wife, Rachael and Andy Bennion.

“It’s a very friendly and well organised event,” Andy said.

After the bike section competitors then faced a five kilometre run, three laps of a track around the Showground.

They completed their race under the finish line before getting medals and posing for special, SY Tri Selfies.