The Schull Fastnet Triathlon

Blackwater Triathlon Club had two members taking part in the Centra Fastnet Triathlon which took place in Schull on Saturday the 10th of June. Now in its 14th year, the Centra Fastnet Triathlon is one of the longest established sprint distance triathlons in Ireland  with  a reputation for being among the best organised sprint events in the country. The race, which was a National Series event this year, is a favourite with some of Ireland’s top triathletes whilst also being very encouraging of the beginner triathlete. This was the 14th edition of this popular race which takes part in one of the most scenic areas of the country. The race started with a 750m swim in the sheltered harbour followed by a 21km cycle along a coastal route and a 5km out and back run also following the shoreline.  Blackwater Triathlon Club members Deidre Morrisson and Jonathon Kenneally joined the 285 plus athletes taking part on the day.  Conditions on Saturday were very good. The sun was shining and it stayed dry, although it did get a bit breezy. The swim was relatively easy in the calm water conditions in the harbour but the bike route, while very pretty, was a little more challenging with lots and lots of hills. Having completed the cycle the competitors were then faced with more hills on the 5km run. Jonathon, in his first race under BTC colours, was first home in a time of 1:21:48 with Deidre just 4 minutes behind in 1:25:58. Excellent times from both of them. This was a very friendly and well run event, with excellent marshalling. Well done to the folks at Schull Triathlon Club and all who took part on the day.