RAIN didn’t dampen the spirits of those taking part in this year’s Teesdale Triathlon on Sunday which saw 125 competitors from all over the country converge on Teesdale Leisure Centre in Barnard Castle.
It was the tenth race organised by Darlington Triathlon Club. Race director Graham Bell said: “We are quite pleased with the local entrants and the support from the local area.
“We get a lot of competitors coming back year after year from all over the country to take part as well as a lot of entrants new to triathlons.”
Among those competing was first time triathlete Rory Lincoln, from Barnard Castle, who lost four stone in weight last year. He was inspired to take part in the triathlon by Middleton-in-Teesdale couple Tina and Matt Robson, who run a fitness and mindset coaching company.
He said: “Last year I lost four stone and kept it off. I decided to do the triathlon after working with Matt and Tina to see if I could do it.”
A full team of supporters, including sister Megan who travelled from Chester, turned out to cheer on the 27-year-old as he crossed the finishing line.
The triathlon consists of a 400-metre swim, 18-mile cycle ride and three-mile run.
He said: “My target was two hours and I knew it was less than that. I really enjoyed it and I think I may do more.”
One family member who wasn’t among the cheerleading team though, was stepfather Gary Patterson. Instead, he was among the competitiors.
The 57-year-old offered to train and take part in the triathlon in a big-hearted show of support for Rory and was given an even bigger cheer as he crossed the finish line in what he says was his first – and last – event.
For full results see https://tinyurl.com/ys3xtxj3
