Triathlon section
The triathlon section of Tunbridge Wells Harriers (TWH) is a rapidly expanding, friendly, informal group of Tunbridge Wells Harriers. Following its formation in 2006, many members have achieved outstanding results in both duathlon and triathlon events with the intention of encouraging many more 'runners' into this friendly, dynamic and hugely enjoyable sport.
When do we train?
Our training sessions at present are informal, and organised dependant on members needs. We run on a Wednesday at 7.30pm from the Nevill Pavillion, Tunbridge Wells (TN2 5ES) and often cycle 20-50 miles on a Saturday or Sunday morning in spring and summer (get in touch with Tony Bennett for more information). We swim either at the St John's pool in Tunbridge Wells on a Thursday at 7pm, or at Crowborough Leisure Centre on Monday evenings at 6pm. In the summer (May to Sept) swim training is at Haysden Lake in Tonbridge on a Monday at 7pm with other local triathlon clubs. We actively encourage more members of TWH to particpate in triathlon events and training.
What are triathlon and duathlon?
A triathlon, as the name suggests, involves taking part in 3 events: swimming, cycling and running. Duathlons are usually a run, cycle and run with aquathlons being a swim and cycle or swim and run. Sprint triathlon events range from a 400-500m swim (usually in a pool), a 20-30K bike and then a 5-8K run. The standard (Olympic distance) comprises a 1,500m swim (usually in a lake or river), 40K bike and then a 10K run. The longer events are mid-distance/Half Ironman and Ironman.
Duathlon events eliminate the need for swimming, and a standard (Olympic distance) duathlon is a 10K run, 40K bike and then a 5K run. Again shorter distances are available.
You really don't need very much equipment to get started; many people use mountain bikes to start with and hire essentials items or borrow kit from friends.
How do I join?
Membership of the triathlon section is automatically part of your membership of Tunbridge Wells Harriers. Membership of TWH currently costs £25 per year, plus £5 for an England Athletics competition licence.
Competition Highlights to Date
Since its inauguration in 2006, our members have successfully participated in numerous Triathlons and Duathlons all over the UK. Members have competed in several half Ironman and full Ironman events whilst others have represented GB at European Duathlon Championships. 2008 again saw members qualify for GB qualification in duathlon and triathlon, with similar success in qualification in the GB duathlon field for 2009. We have seen members take part in 10's of sprint, OD, half Ironman and full Ironman triathlons so far in 2009, with many events to be raced including European Duathlons.
What are the benefits?
The triathlon section of TWH is affiliated to the British Triathlon Federation (BTF) which enables all TWH members to join the BTF at a reduced cost and enjoy the associated benefits, including comprehensive liability insurance. See www.britishtriathlon.org for more information.
Our mission
We hope to grow together, to share our collective experiences (both good and bad!) and to develop our knowledge of triathlon and duathlon building friendships and lifelong memories along the way.
How to find out more
For more information please contact our Triathlon Representative, Tony Bennett.