GOG athletes perform well at World Triathlon Championships

The successful Gog Triathlon squad

Report by Don Hale

Ten members from the North Wales based GOG Triathlon Club formed a strong team at Leeds last weekend during the AJ Bell Festival of Triathlon, which was part of the World Championship series.

Events staged over hilly and challenging routes were held on both Saturday and Sunday at the scenic Roundhay Park, and in near perfect weather conditions.

The GOG squad were pitched among about 4,000 competitors, including both amateur and elite athletes, were able to gain valuable experience, and even share the unique atmosphere at this prestigious blue carpet, multi-event finish.

Caitlin Owen

In the Saturday Sprint race, which involved a 750m swim, an 18.5 kms cycle race, followed by a 5k Run; Simon Hick was the first club man home in 1.28.41, with Caitlin Owen the 1st GOG lady to finish in 1.38.04, closely followed by Amelia Roberts in 1.48.28.

The Standard Course event was held on Sunday, and included a 1500m swim, a 36.4 kms cycle race, and finished with a 10k run. Mared Dafydd was the 1st female GOG athlete home in 2.31.51, followed by Bleddyn Evans in 2.44.59, with Andy Ellwood back in 2.54.52, and Geri Evans in 3.05.40.

Mared Dafydd

In addition, Angharad Lewis finished very well in the Standard race in 3.07.40, which included a shortened 750m swim.

Afterwards, Angharad confirmed: “Back after being a triathlete. The Leeds triathlon didn’t disappoint. From being nervous, to having moments of not being able to get in the water, I had no choice when I heard “GO” and I absolutely loved it, especially on the bike racing close to others! Great support on the day from other members of the #gogtriathlonclub. Now to get ready for the next one!“

Angharad Lewis

The events however, marked some slight disappointment for Rob Stewart and Chris Beardmore, who unfortunately, both suffered problems with their bikes.

Malcolm raced well in Ultimate Ironman Triathlon

Legendary GOG triathlete Malcolm Harrison took part in his 7th Ironman in the Ultimate Triathlon at Alderford Lake, near Whitchurch last weekend, after recovering well from injury and illness.

Veteran athlete, Malcolm, now aged 66, proved a genuine inspiration to club colleagues, as he had to endure a gruelling 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile cycle, followed by a 26.2-mile Marathon Run.

He finally completed this arduous task in a highly respectable 14 hours, 47 minutes and 16 seconds.