Record entry at Castle Ward

Record entry at Castle Ward

2 July 2025

THE Beyond the Wall Triathlon once again lived up to its name, and then some, with a record 347 triathletes registered from 28 triathlon clubs across 

Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland at Castle Ward Estate. 

With exceptional feedback from Triathlon Ireland, including high praise for the smooth organisation and outstanding volunteer effort, the 2025 edition was one for the books.

The race saw the largest-ever turnout from hosts Down Triathlon Club, with 67 athletes competing — many of them proud new graduates of the club’s “Come on Down and Tri” programme.

The weather played its part and athletes enjoyed a calm sea swim, a cloudy and cool bike leg and a refreshing light rain shower during the run — welcome relief for many on the final stretch.

Spectators were delighted to spot Cool FM DJ Paulo Ross, not behind the mic, but on the course.

A team of 196 marshals made the event possible, and their efforts were recognised as key to the day’s success by Triathlon Ireland. 

Special thanks to our water marshals from Strangford Sailing Club, Quoile Yacht Club and Strangford Coastal Rowing Club.  Their dedication embodies the spirit of Down Triathlon Club and its community of family, friends and supporters.

Race director Matt Whittaker could not have been more pleased with how the day’s events took shape.

“This was our fourth year hosting the race and our second year as part of the Triathlon Ireland National Series.

I was blown away by the support from our club members, with over 67 Down Triathlon Club members racing on the day, and a total 100 first time triathletes taking part,” he said.

“We’ve had fantastic feedback from Triathlon Ireland, who specifically praised our marshals. That recognition is down to the people who give their time to make this event possible. Thank you all for being part of something so special.”

Thank you to our gold sponsor, MG Construction, whose generous support helps us build more than just a race, and congratulations to their own Peter Galloway, who racer  number 100 on the day.

Thanks also to our silver sponsors: Mourne Cycles, Velo Yelo and Gateley Legal; bronze sponsors: McConvey Cycles, Mooney’s Pharmacy, AJC Group, Murphy’s Bar, Ireland’s Appliance Centre, G-Rake, The Barn, Friends Day Nursery, McGreevy’s Butchers and Deli, Mountpanther Farm Park , Self Build NI, Charles Rourke and Sons, Stocktakers NI, Suki Tea, Tel’s Fitness Studio and 

Downe Veterinary Clinic; and refreshment sponsors: Doc’s Fish and Chips, Brennan’s Ice Cream, Hanlon’s, Lucozade Sport Ireland, Suki Tea and Asda.