Triathletes celebrating

Triathletes celebrating

15 November 2023

DOWN Triathlon Club has been named best in Ireland.

The club secured the prestigious Club of the Year 2023 award from Triathlon Ireland at a glittering ceremony, held in Blanchardstown, Dublin.

The award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion exhibited by the members, coaches, and committee of Down Triathlon Club throughout the year. 

The club was founded by a small group of triathlon enthusiasts pre-Covid. They formed a committee with Ian Hilsdon at the helm as chairman and they cemented the foundations.

The club has been extremely popular over the last four years with the junior section now up to nearly 50 members. There is a 48% female member representation and the club has host its own triathlon event.

There is a strong and active committee who are passionate about the development of the club and the personal achievements of the members.

One of the stand-out moments of the awards ceremony was when Ciaran McGarrity, club chairman and head coach, was named Club Coach of the Year.

This accolade acknowledges Ciaran’s exceptional coaching skills, commitment to athlete development, and overall contribution to the success and development of the members. 

Matt Whitaker, a stellar athlete representing Down Triathlon Club, also made the club proud by securing a remarkable second place in his age category in the highly competitive Aquabike National Championship.   

In addition to Matt’s success, Ciaran Denvir secured third overall place in the Aquabike National Series Championship.

Ciaran’s achievement adds to the growing list of accomplishments for Down Triathlon Club, showcasing the depth of talent within the club’s ranks. 

The success of Down Triathlon Club at the Triathlon Ireland awards is a reflection of the collective spirit, hard work, and passion that permeates every aspect of the club. The members, coaches, and committee have built a community that not only excels in competition but also fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for all triathlon enthusiasts. 

The Club would like to thank the following sponsors for their support: Mables Ice-Cream Parlour, Down Tyres, Morrissey Accountants and Gateley Legal PLC.

Gatelely Legal PLC sponsor the club’s junior section and were the main sponsors for Beyond the Wall event along with Ciaran Russell Autosales. The club is also supported by many other businesses in the local area.  

The club would also like to thank all those that volunteer at Beyond the Wall and other events. Volunteers are so important and all play a part in the club’s overall success.  

With dedicated coaches, talented athletes, and a strong sense of community, Down Triathlon Club is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the world of triathlon.