Event schedule for Ireland’s biggest triathlon event
Tomorrow, Saturday 2nd July Ireland’s biggest annual triathlon, Waterways Ireland triAthlone takes place this Saturday, 2nd July, 2011. With over 2,000 people signed up to compete and 15,000 spectators expected to line the streets, Athlone is gearing up for yet another great event.
Irish Elite Athletes and Ireland’s Olympic triathlon hopefuls Gavin Nobel and Bryan Keane will compete to win silverware in the Irish Sprint Championships and national title events. Both have had successful 2011 campaigns to date, putting them in serious contention to qualify for London’s 2012 Games. Also up for grabs this weekend is the inaugural title of “Ireland’s Fastest Relay Team” to be presented by Ireland triathlon.
In the mix of people taking part are a bunch of Irish hopeful Rose of Tralee and TV personality and fitness regular Kathryn Thomas. Four charities who are officially involved will benefit from this year’s event include; Respect, Children’s Hospital Crumlin, Breast Cancer Ireland and CRY.
Speaking about the event, Liam Heavin, “We are delighted we have had such great local support for this year’s event. We would like to encourage as many people as possible to come along and support the event this Saturday – cheer on all the participants and add to the festival atmosphere!”
This year’s Waterways Ireland triAthlone event will be supported by premium sponsor Waterways Ireland, with significant support also provided by Athlone Town Council. John Martin, Chief Executive Waterways Ireland said; “Waterways Ireland recognised years ago that events such as the Waterways Ireland TriAthlone contribute not only to the economic wellbeing of waterway towns and villages but to a rise in the use of the waterways for recreation as well as an increased sense of community and pride.. Through the Waterways Ireland triAthlone continues to deliver for the town of Athlone and the wider area.”
triAthlone begins with a swim in the River Shannon, from which the competitors will then take to their bikes for a cycle through south County Roscommon before the exciting town-centre run which will see the event finish in the heart of Athlone. The event is running in tandem with Athlone Town Council’s Summerfest which will offer entertainment and activities for the whole family throughout the weekend (www.athlone.ie).
Waterways Ireland triAthlone has developed into one of the biggest emerging summer festivals Summerfest where sport, entertainment and music meet. For further information www.triathlone.ie.