Sprint Triathlon for Westport

Westport town is about to host its first Triathlon. The 25.5 Triathlon series is coming to Westport on 29th of May for the inaugural race in which participants will swim 500 meters, cycle 20km and finish with a 5km run. The sport of Triathlon is growing rapidly in Ireland and is no longer deemed to be for just the elite or superfit athletes. Organiser, Sebastien Lochteau,(swim coach for Westport Swimming Club) says “this distance is a perfect introduction to Triathlon and Westport is the perfect location for such a race, we think we have found an ideal course and expect this race will grow significantly in future years to come”.

The course route takes in some of the most scenic parts of Westport and its surrounds. It begins with the swim at the pier in Westport and then cyclists will follow a very picturesque out and back route along the coast road, past Murrisk and out as far as Bertra where it returns back to Westport quay. Much of the return cycle route will be on the new cycle path although roads will remain open and local residents and motorists are kindly asked to exercise due caution on the course route on the morning of Saturday 29th May. The race will culminate with a 5km run, mostly on the newly built cycle/pedestrian greenway in Westport town.

The 25.5 Westport triathlon has been organized with the kind co-operation of Mayo County Council, An Garda Siochána, Westport Swimming Club, Murrisk Development Association, the Red Cross and Westport Woods Hotel.

Race information:

Online entries via Run Ireland (http://www.runireland.com/events/2010-05-29/255-triathlon-series-Westport)

Start time – 9.30am Saturday 29th May

Entry fee €45, which includes "Westport House" Day pass for your family (couple+children) to Westport House & Gardens.

Race Director – Sebastien Locteau (085 735 0850)