The second annual Spokes Cycles Duathlon takes place in Tramore next month, with all profits going to Waterford Order of Malta.
A duathlon is a race similar to a triathlon – with one less discipline, i.e. no swimming – which given the recent temperatures won’t have anyone crying into their bottle of H2O.
The duathlon on Saturday, February 28 (starting at 12noon) will comprise two three-kilometre runs sandwiching a 16km cycle.
Last year’s maiden event saw over 200 people take part – one of the largest entries for a duathlon in Ireland – raising €3,000 for the Waterford Hospice Movement.
The extremely close-run senior men’s event was won by Sean McFadden (Letterkenny AC), just five seconds ahead of Keith Heary (Carlow Tri), with Waterford’s Davin Power third. Eimear O’Brien (Northwest Tri) won the women’s race, followed by Catherine Keohane (Cork) and Marie Griffin. Aaron Power and Rachael Moore were the first male and female juniors respectively.
The 2009 edition is again being organised by Liam Lowe of Spokes Cycles, Patrick Street, Waterford. He is hoping for another big turn-out for an event that will cater for varying levels of fitness: from beginners, to improvers to seasoned competitors. It’s open to individuals and also relay teams. There’s also a juvenile category.
The initial 3km stage will start at the T-Bay surf centre, pass up through Riverstown, along by the majestic and back down Strand Road and the Prom.
The bike leg in towards Waterford to Ballindud and back will be marked out by Gardaí and marshals, with the final run following the same course as the first.
*To register and for information on race rules, phone 051-841800, email spokescycles@hotmail.com or see the website www.spokes.ie
