The borough of DunLaoghaire Kingstown was once again a most majestic host to this years Focus Ireland sprint Triathlon on bank holiday Sunday. Local lady Irene Walsh stormed home to take the women’s title for the third time in four years, just missing out on the tri hatrick last year by coming in second place. Having undertaken her first Ironman in 1989 in a time just over 14 hours, she is one Irelands longest competing female athletes, well known and respected by her peers.
Her winning time of 1:14:25 mins secured her top spot on the podium along with the male top performers from Pulse tri who as ever put on an amazing show. King for the day was John Connolly with a winning time of 1:06:39 mins. The shorter Try distance male and female event was won by Brian McCann 1:16:05 mins and Alexandra Birney in 1:15:21 mins respectively.
The early start for volunteers, marshals and the two hundred competitors was all taken in good spirits as it is a good cause. According to Joyce Loughnan of Focus Ireland ‘91cent in every €1 goes towards providing core services’ for the homeless charity. The triathlon event alone has raised over €490,000 since 2005 with a target of €100,000 for 2011.
The multi sport event of swim, bike and run attracts many new to tri competitors as well as experienced athletes and weekend warriors training up for more challenging events later on in the season.
After a quick bike check by local husband and wife team Eddie and Monica Roe of Mikes Bikes, the first wave set off at 8.15am, only minutes behind schedule.
The swim conditions for the 350m or 750m distances in the east pier were close to ideal with a bit of a pull needed on the way out and somewhat easier on the turnaround. The closed road and no drafting on the bikes made it safe and achievable for all levels while the two loop run of the pier made it perfect viewing for the many spectators who had gathered to join in the atmosphere and cheer home the entrants.
The considerable cost of hosting the event is all made possible by generous donations from the main sponsor KBC Bank, promotion through Q102 and of course the participants who do a magnificent job both in raising sponsorship and training to compete in the event. A number of teams and corporate groups also signed up.
The successful running of the event is all thanks to the cooperation of local authorities, An Garda Siochana and an army of volunteers. DLR Sports partnership works alongside local groups to promote exercise and activity through various events such as this. The well established trio of MC Tighe Sullivan, Technical Officer Eamonn Tilley and Race Director Noel McCloskey, themselves veterans to the triathlon scene, gave their valuable services and expertise in making this a fun and enjoyable event for all involved.
The training advice from the experts is to focus on your weakest discipline, train each section twice per week, allowing about eight hours per week in total. The growing body of Triathlon Ireland continues to promote development of athletes, Level 1-3 coaches and Technical Officers.
Full results and further information:
Focus Ireland www.focusireland.ie
Triathlon Ireland www.triathlonireland.ie
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