Fantastic turnout for testing Triathlon event

Fantastic turnout for testing Triathlon event

5 July 2023

BEYOND the Wall Triathlon at Castle Ward Estate concluded on Saturday with an exceptional display of athleticism, determination, and camaraderie. 

Athletes from across the island of Ireland gathered at Castle Ward Estate to participate in a thrilling race that showcased both their physical prowess and the picturesque beauty of Castle Ward and Strangford Lough.

The event, organised by Down Triathlon Club, sponsored by Gateley Legal PLC, brought together participants of all levels, from seasoned triathletes to first-time competitors. 

The sprint distance event catered to athletes seeking different levels of challenge and accomplishment. 

The triathlon commenced with a captivating swim leg in the pristine waters of Strangford Lough, a challenging enough swim with winds picking up as the day unfolded. 

This was followed by a demanding bike segment that took participants through rolling hills and scenic countryside.

With a strong head wind heading into Downpatrick, it was a tough ride for even the most seasoned competitors. 

Finally, athletes showcased their endurance with a run through the estate’s captivating trails, culminating in a well-deserved finish line celebration.

The event also provided an opportunity for families and supporters to immerse themselves in the atmosphere. 

Spectators lined the race route, cheering on the athletes with enthusiasm.

The newly named Dave’s Hill attracted interest. 

Dave’s Hill was named in honour of club member, Dave Wilson, who passed at the end of last year. 

Dave was on the founding committee of Beyond the Wall and was a triathlon enthusiast. Margaret Wilson, Dave’s wife, was delighted with the tribute and found herself surrounded by DTC juniors showing their support for competitors up the gruelling climb.

The event concluded with a vibrant post-race celebration, where participants were awarded well-deserved finisher’s medals sponsored by Ciaran Russell Auotsales as well as prizes provided by Mourne Cycles, Red 

Box Kitchen, Velo Yelo Ltd, and Bodyrox Health and Fitness.

The triathlon at Castle Ward Estate is now a well-established annual event, continuing to attract athletes seeking a unique and challenging race in a breathtaking setting. 

We hope to achieve National Series Race status from Triathlon Ireland next year which would attract even more seasoned athletes to this part of the world. 

“It’s been an amazing day for both athletes and spectators,” said race director Matt Whittaker.

“It is great to see such a mix of competitors, well-seasoned athletes and newcomers racing in a spectacular location. 

“It’s all out there on the course to see – grit, determination, pain and big, big smiles, you can see what it means to everyone racing and watching.

It’s so good to see, triathlon rocks”. 

He continued: “A big thank you to all the marshals for volunteering and supporting on the day, as it wouldn’t be possible to run an event like this without them. 

“It’s been a real challenge planning and setting it up, but the whole Beyond the Wall committee have worked hard to make it happen. 

“I’d also like to express my gratitude and thanks to the National Trust for hosting the event, it really is a fantastic location. 

He added: “Then finally, thanks to the competitors, spectators and all our sponsors for the support and making it a fantastic 

event, it’s much appreciated by all at Down Triathlon Club”. 

The event attracted interest from local council and the sports sector with the chairperson for Newry, Mourne and Down Council, Valerie Harte, in attendance.

“Thank you for inviting me to Beyond the Wall Triathlon, an event promoting health, fitness, sport and well being to the community,” she said.

Meanwhile, Antionette Mc Keown, CEO for Sport Northern Ireland also attended the event. 

“It was a pleasure to attend such a great event and I commend Down Triathlon Club for such an ambitious and successful event,” she said. 

“Sport NI is proud to support a diverse range of sports so that everyone can have access to a sport they can enjoy and often excel at. 

“Triathlon and this event is a great testimony to our commitment”.

It is a credit to Down Triathlon Club to be hosting such a prestigious event and hopefully with National Series status next year they will welcome more to Castle Ward Estate. 

Special thanks to everyone that was involved in the organising, both before and on the day of the event.

Winners: First male, Pjilip Castles; second male, John Jackson; third male, Conaill MacNabb; first female, Kerry McGrillen; second female, Orla McGandy; third female, Trudy Brown.

For more information about the Triathlon at Castle Ward Estate and future events, please visit www.downtriathlonclub.com.