Running the Gauntlet

Sometimes I feel really blessed, I am lucky to have a superb supportive family who have nothing but encouragement for the silly activities I partake in. I am part of a wonderful triathlon team that is like a big family, the support for each of us when racing and training is just something else. Even though I have only been doing triathlon a short amount of time, I have built up a real fantastic group of friends, both competitors and organisers.

I think I have said before, one of my most favourite events is the Castle Triathlon Bastion, and with it the Castle Triathlon Series. I was slightly shocked recently when I was asked to become an ambassador for the Castle Triathlon Series next year, but I jumped at the chance. That really blessed feeling just continues. I am immensely proud to represent a great organisation that aims to break down the barriers to those thinking about entering a triathlon for the first time, and providing a great event experience for all those taking part, whether the first timer or an experienced triathlete. Each event is unique in it's setting and atmosphere, though they all are very rewarding events.

All of the Castle Triathlon Series races take part in stunning settings, these being Lough Cutra Castle in Ireland, Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire, Castle Howard in Yorkshire, Chateau de Chantilly in France, and Hever Castle in Kent.

What it means is I have 2016 pretty well planned out, as I will be racing all of the Gauntlet races in the series, and also for the 3rd time, the jewel in the crown of the series, The Bastion at Hever Castle. The aim of 2016 was to step down a distance for a year, and to have some fun. I think next year will certainly be major fun, and I really am itching for 2016 to roll around fast.

29th May at Lough Cutra
26th June at Cholmondeley Castle
10th July The Bastion at Hever Castle
24th July at Castle Howard
28th August at Chateau de Chantilly
25th September at Hever Castle

I guess the real focus will be on the Bastion, though the thought of doing 2 x half iron distance, sandwiched either side of the Bastion in a 5 week period does slightly concern me, though no doubt I can speak with Darren Jenkins on how to manage it as he did the same this year. If you want to see how I get on, why not take part yourself. I can assure you it is great fun.

For those who have done a Gauntlet at any of the locations, consider stepping up to the Bastion, it is a great event and one that provides a welcoming and family feel that you will be used to, yet provides you with the big event feel of other mainstream long distance events. It is certainly an event to remember and I promise you won't come away from it disappointed. For anyone that hasn't done a Castle Triathlon Series event I urge you to give one a go, they offer a huge selection of distances to try, and they even offer a children's triathlon at all the locations so fun to be had for the whole family.

For more information on the Castle Triathlon Series, please visit the website and there is a wealth of information on there. If you do have any questions, then I will be pleased to try and assist, or you can contact the Castle Triathlon Series via their website.