The Metalman Middle Distance Triathlon
It’s been a tough summer with many triathlon races cancelled due to Covid concerns. However, a few events did finally manage to go ahead over the last few weekends of the summer. On Saturday the 4th of September, 5 members of the Blackwater Triathlon Club travelled down to the sunny south east to take part in the inaugural ‘Metalman’ middle distance triathlon. The race, which consisted of a 1.9km swim, a 90km cycle down the scenic Copper Coast and a 21km run, had originally been scheduled for July the 3rd. It was then moved back to the 14th of August before finally being able to go ahead on the 4th of September, much to the relief of the competitors and organisers. Gina Lyons, Martin Feeney, Brian O’Hagan, Mike Lyons and Joe Scanlan were among 200 competitors who lined up at the start line at 7.00 on Saturday morning. Conditions on the day were warm and calm as the swimmers began the swim, getting in at Guillamene Cove and swimming the 1.9km before getting out at Newtown Cove. The 90km bike leg was into Dungarvan via Kilmeadan along the N25 and then back along the stunning copper coast, with lots of sharp climbs and technical descents around Bunmahon, Annestown and Fenor to keep everyone on their toes. The day finished with the run, with plenty of hills to keep it interesting for everyone. The BTC crew all had a good day out, posting excellent times on a very tough course. First of the BTC contingent home was Mike Lyons who finished in 23rd place overall in 4:35:46. Joe crossed the finish line in 5:02:20 and Martin finished in 5:22:43. Gina was just three minutes behind Martin, powering across the line in 5:25:52, first in her age group category and 13th female overall. Brian crossed the line just a few minutes later in 5:31:24, finishing a very successful day for the Blackwater athletes. Well done to them and to all who took part on the day. Great credit must also be given to the organisers who had to move heaven and earth to ensure that the event eventually took place.