Author: Jean Ashley

September Quadrathlon Update

Jean Ashley

We are about to start our final month in the Quadrathlon Season, and lets hope we get that Indian Summer for our final 2 races, The Awesome Foursome Bude, and the Brigg Sprint. There are still plenty of National Trophy Points to be Won and age group places to be decided! 

Sadly Shrewsbury Quad and Tri has been cancelled, this was not a decision taken lightly by the SYTri committee, but there simply we not enough helpers coming forward to enable the race to run safely, they need a significant amount of marshals for the swim, kayak, bike and run legs, transition and general event organization. Like many small clubs the events they organize are becoming more and more difficult, we are seeing a shift in people’s interest and in levels of demand. Those regular helpers of the race who have already put in work are very disappointed but we hope very much to put the race on next year, but ultimately its success and continuity will depend on people coming forward both to help and to race, across both the quad and the Triathlon.

Bude Quadrathlon Awesome Foursome Race Video Bude is back and entries are open for this Awesome Foursome Quadrathlon on Saturday 9th September! A fantastic event in this beautiful seaside town on the Cornwall Coast. Every September since 2002  Simon Hammond and his Team from ‘Shorelineactivities’ run the Awesome Foursome Quadrathlon, an extreme multi-sport race for individuals, pairs and relay teams to enter. This is an established event in the British and European Quadrathlon calendar regularly being a World Cup ranking event or the European Short Course Championships.

The race makes the very most of Bude’s geography and features. The open water swim takes place within the shelter of Bude’s breakwater. The cycle ride includes some amazing coastal hills (including the 1 in 3 climb at Millook). The kayak leg takes place on the tranquil Bude canal. And the final run follows the canal towpath onto the coastal path and back to Bude. The fastest athletes will take around 3 hours to complete the course with most finished within 4 hours.

Entries must be received in advance. You can do this by going to our website and downloading an application form and following the instructions or by using our On-Line entry system. 

shorelineactivities.co.uk/foursome.quadrathlon.event

The event starts with an 800 m sea swim, a double loop within Summerleaze bay, protected by the breakwater. Next a 30 km cycle following the coast road to Widemouth, Wanson Mouth and Millook before meeting the A39 at Wainhouse Corner and returning to Bude. Then a 10 km Kayak paddle, which is a double loop of the Bude canal. And finally a 10 km run along the canal towpath to Helebridge, following the marked footpath across the fields to Widemouth and returning to Bude via the coastal path. The course has stayed the same since we first ran it in 2002.

Guarantied to be a fantastic weekend away …. not forgetting those Cornish Pasties and Cream Teas to replenish the muscles afterwards! 

 

Big Thanks to Lincsquad for adding this New Quadrathlon to our calendar again this year!  The Keyo Brigg Sprint distance Quadrathlon is organised by our wonderful ‘LincsQuad’ and consists of a 750m swim in the river Ancholme followed by a 4km Kayak, 19km road cycle and finishing with a 5km road run. The course is flat, fast and ideal for both experienced quadrathletes and those wanting to race the shorter distance. There is also a Team event, and each person will complete at least 1 leg of the event.

Oct – Keyo Brigg Sprint Triathlon 2023

This will be the last race of the BQA National Trophy Series, and the Trophies which are awarded each year, will be presented. Just a quick reminder of the Trophy Rules – Each winner must have done 3 races in the BQA Series, and must be a current BQA Member. (In the event of a tie the 4th race points will count to decide the winner).

PRIZES are – Overall Winners Perpetual Trophy for Male and Female.

BQA Kit vouchers for Overall winners Male and Female, plus winner in each age category, Juniors (u23), Seniors, V40+ V50+ V60+ Vet 70+ (Overall Winners will not get age group as well, role down to next Quadrathlete)

Eric Hatliff Memorial Trophy & BQA Kit Voucher awarded each year ‘For Endeavor’ given to an athlete showing his enthusiasm and commitment to the sport of Quadrathlon.

So there is an awful lot up for grabs … so make sure you get your entry in and support Lincsquad and enjoy this new event!

Sprinkling the fairy dust … Jean Your ‘Fairy Quadmother’  

Deva Divas Quadrathlon 2023

Jean Ashley

It was our 6th Deva Divas Quadrathlon, and once again the weather was kind despite a brisk wind it was warm and dry …. but whatever the weather there was always going to be sunshine in everyone’s heart and as always plenty of very happy ladies!

Its always very emotional reading so many wonderful messages from my Deva Diva Quadrathletes, as always there have been so many inspiring journeys that ladies have taken to get to that start line. A huge well done to every one of you, who took part …… I was so happy watching you all and very honored to be putting medals around your necks on the finish line,  there is so much love at the Deva Divas … just So Special!

I’m very proud to be part of Chester Triathlon Club, and Chester SCC and the ‘Special Team’ who gave up so much time to make this event ‘just one of the best!’ As always it’s a long list of volunteers, and a ‘Key Team’ who give so much to make the Deva Divas such a great event, especially Sally Napthan’ your Legacy gets Stronger and Stronger, it’s been yet another memorable Race Day!

MADCC Quad Team

Thank you to all you Deva Quad Girls for giving it your all, you pushed hard, smiled all the way and inspired many onlookers with your enthusiasm to take on 4 disciplines, it’s been a great pleasure to be part of your journey … and I’ll say it again, I’m so proud of you all … wear your T-Shirt & your medal – Bask in Your Glory … You did it!!✊

There was some great competitive racing in the top half of the field, most have their own goals, agendas and ambitions, many race for charities but one thing is fore sure …. there are smiles all the way! Congratulations to our Winner for the third year on the run, Eleanor Young, with Natalie Abbott in 2nd Place,  and Helen Adams in 3rd place.

 

1st Eleanor Young Senior – Senior 2.00.06
2nd Natalie Abbott – 1st Vet 60 2.03.52
3rd Helen Adams – 1st Vet 50 2.06.20

Special Mention to our BQA Members that flew the flag for the BQA, a Big thanks for supporting and inspiring many of our Deva Divas along the way! Also special thanks to our Male BQA Members that helped out in Kayak transition and on the water … Dave Ashley, David Jones, and Lance Ball  you help was much appreciated!

 

 

BQA Members

5th Nikki Hamerton – 2.06.48
6th Mary White – 2.09.07
7th Liz Dawson – 2.12.36
10th Hermione Ball – 2.20.38
12th Margaret Hyton – 2.25.17
22nd Caz Jones 2.40.30
23rd Claire Longney 2.40.59

Full Results Deva-Divas-2023 Quadrathlon

Take a look at our amazing Film of the Race Day Deva Divas  Film 2023

Also an amazing amount of SMILEY PHOTOS mickhallphotos – deva-divas-2023

Big Thanks to Helen Adams for this Fabulous Race Report!
Here’s a report on my favourite race of the Quad Season so grab a cupper and have a read if you have the time Deva Diva- Quad. Tri and Aqua Bike.
 
All three of these events are female only and it is open to all abilities. From the seasoned athlete, the fund raiser raising vital cash for charity to the next-door neighbour who’s just giving it a go for fun. ALL abilities ALL welcome and ALL supported by their family, friends, coaches and in some cases complete strangers.
 
It’s my 5th year racing the Deva Diva Quad and probably my favourite event of the race season because of the reasons stated above. This year was to be no exception and if I’m honest the support for the athletes just grows and grows year on year.
 
The race starts with a walk up to the swim start. I really enjoy this bit as it gives competitors time to reflect of what they’ve already achieved to get to the start line. It is also interesting talking to fellow athletes taking part in the Tri or Aqua Bike. Where else would you get a conversation in ten mins about the un-flattering cut of a tri suit or the sleepless nights due to menopause or childcare etc.
 
First into the river are the Quad. and Aqua Bike athletes. As we were counted in to enter the water I spotted David, my husband sat in his kayak giving me a wave and wishing me luck. He had volunteered for safety duty and would be following the second wave down of Tri. Athletes. With thirty seconds to go I warmed up and looked for a good spot on the starting line. Ten seconds to go – a round of Oggy Oggy Oggy and I find my spot. Five, four, three, two one … the hooter sounds and we’re off – 750m of swimming ahead. My starting spot wasn’t so good as I thought! Getting hemmed in I kept a level head, increased my speed, and found clear water for the rest of the swim.
 
Out of the swim in fourth place knowing that Liz Dawson, Clare Addy, and Pauline Percy (who was competing in her first Quad.) are strong swimmers and would be well on their way from transition onto the kayak. Having a “bit of difficulty” with my wetsuit 😣 as commented by the compare for the day, I finally managed to get the zip undone, grabbed my paddle and buoyancy aid and ran to the beach to get into my kayak.
 
My suspicions were correct. Liz was way ahead and out of site, but I could see Pauline and Clare. Over taking these two and having a quick chat with Clare about my boat, I paddled on slowly gaining water on Liz. Turning at the 2km mark it was all downstream to the get out. Thinking “OK, I’m 2nd just keep it going” Eleanor Young cruised past to take 2nd place leaving me 3rd – it needed to be a quick transition.
 
Surprisingly my kayak to bike transition was good 😊 and I managed to climb backup to 2nd place when overtaking Liz as I left transition. The weather forecast was windy, and it was! I settled into the tuck position on my bike I got into a steady rhythm. On the turn around and heading back it was now time to eat, drink and spot who was chasing me. I soon saw Natalie Abbot, Nicola Hamerton and Mary White in hot pursuit – another quick transition required.
 
Onto the run knowing I was 2nd it was a matter of hanging in there as faster runners would be catching me up. True to form Natalie came speeding through to take 2nd place. Nicola won’t be far behind; I thought so dug deep for the last 1500m to keep my 3rd place.
There were thirty Quad. Athletes racing of which thirteen were in my Age Cat. 50. I came 3rd overall and first in my age Cat. with an overall time of 02:06:20 the winning time being 02:00.06.
 
Deva Diva- Quad. Tri and Aqua Bike is a brilliant, friendly, fun event what ever you choose to do. The special bit is that its all put together by volunteers who give up their time so us athletes can go out and enjoy ourselves because yes, that’s what’s it all about, enjoying ourselves.
 
So, a very big thank you to Race Director – Sally Napthen, Jean Ashley, Marshalls, Safety Team, and Chester Tri. Club … see you next year.
Helen Adams
 
 
Eleanor, Judith & Anna
Mandy & Willow

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Also making beautiful memories are our ‘Mums and Daughters’ Judith, Eleanor and Anna Young, great results for them, Eleanor taking the overall Win, Anna winning the Under 23 Category, and Mum Judith, doing a huge PB from last year coming 4th in the Over 50’s! Mandy and Willow Lewis also made the Podium, Mandy taking 2nd Over 40’s and Willow 3rd Under 23’s. Proud Moments and just ‘Perfect Mum and Daughter Times Together’!  
 
Chester Deva Kayak Team
A special Mention to the ‘Chester Deva Divas Kayak Team’, I had the great pleasure in coaching this crew with Club Coaches John and Carol Hatton on our 12 week Pre Race Course … they had so much fun and all finished in EPIC STYLE!  
Jean … A very Proud Fairy Quadmother xx

Dearne Valley Quad 2023

Jean Ashley

Our Host ‘Mark Benton’

It’s been a fabulous day at Manvers Lake today for the 2nd Race in the BQA Series. Congratulations to everyone who raced today in the ‘tropical’ conditions, it was certainly a hot one!

The BQA would like to say a Huge Thank -You to Mark Benton and his Manvers Team for organising this great race, you are a wonderful ‘Team’ of people thank you for your enthusiasm and for inspiring so many to take to the water and embrace the challenge, you have put so many smiles on peoples faces today. Without a doubt it’s such a fabulous feel good event, enjoyed by everyone, from seasoned athletes to first timers it was so good to see everyone just loving the day!

Thanks also to ‘David and Caz Jones’ who have been organizing Quad Training Days throughout the year and encouraging newcomers to our sport, they do a fantastic job to introducing people into our sport!

We started the morning at 8.30 with the QuadKidz Tri and Quad race a huge well done to them, they were all amazing all finished their races in fantastic style , most certainly our stars of the future!

The main race started at 9.30 the water was a balmy 22 degrees so wetsuits optional. It was 2 400m laps in the swim, Steve King was first out and looking strong as he went onto the bike, with Clare Addy first lady, followed closely by Gillian Melia.

 

Steve has been away from Quads for a year or two, but he’d certainly not forgotten how to push hard! He was well clear after the bike, and pulled away in the kayak leg, despite having to stop to adjust his seat, he ran well and went on to take the win comfortably. Newcomer to Quadrathlon was Stuart Jolly he looked strong through out, paddled very well and came in 2nd. Nick Farnell had a good race, and came in just a couple of minuits behind Stuart taking 3rd place.

In the Ladies race, Gill had a strong bike and soon went into the lead, she paddled well and went into the run well ahead of Helen Adams and Clare. Helen moved into 2nd place after the bike, she had a good kayak, but by now the sun was very hot and everyone found the run tough. Clare came in smiling excitably to take 3rd!

A huge well done to all competitors, and especially the lovely first timers to Quadrathlon, they all really enjoyed themselves and were very proud of what they had achieved, lets hope we see them again.  There was a great turnout from our BQA Athletes, all racing well as always thank-you for flying the BQA Flag, our small sport needs you! The Quadrathlon Family was at its Best, so much love, encouragement and support; you all inspire each other keep sharing the passion and happy a safe training until the next time.

I’ll keep spreading the ‘Fairy Dust’ … Jean your Fairy Quadmother, who hopefully will be back racing again soon.

Full Results Dearne-Valley__-Quadrathlon-Dearne-Valley-Quadrathlon-25-06-2023-1

BQA Trophy listings after 2 Races BQA British Trophy 2023.2

Steve King

Stuart Jolly

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MALE
1st Steve King – 1:38:13
2nd Stuart Jolly – 1:43:11
3rd Nick Farnell (BQA) – 1:45:48

Gillian Melia

Helen Adams

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LADIES
1st Gilliam Melia (BQA) – 1:54:05
2nd Helen Adams (BQA) – 1:58:50
3rd Clare Addy – 2:07:44

Great Racing from all our BQA MEMBERS
Phillipe Jumeau – 1:50:27
Wayne Smith -1:52:08
Peter Chappill -1:52:34
Lance Ball – 1:52:58
Blake Mawson Burren -1:58:00
Russel Breyer – 2:02:00
Jeff Chappill – 2:01:32
Andrew Lawson -2:03:32
John Redmond -2:08:47
Donna Chappill – 2:17:12
Caz Jones – 2:31:27

Helen Ricchia (Did the Triathlon due to shoulder injury) Get better soon Helen!

Lots more photos on our BQA Facebook Page

Big Thanks for the Race Report from our Ladies Winner Gillian Melia

It was looking like it was going to be a perfect event; and it was! Thanks to Mark Benton and the Manvers Team and all their efforts in preparations from emails and pre race info, course recce on Saturday and on the day fun and support. The Manvers lake looked brilliant with the BQA flags flying in front of the transitions area …..Amazing!

Its an ideal spot to hold a Watersports Quadrathlon event not only a wonderful lake but with great facilities on site. There’s even a little bit of overnight camping for this event if yourself contained.

The weather was set to be hot, although predicted to be slightly cooler than the Saturday but it didn’t feel like it by the time I was on the run.

2019 was the last time I competed at this event and it was nice to be back. Manver’s host the Triathlon and Quadrathlon together and the swim is a mass start for both. The water was warm and we had already been given the choice of a non wetsuit swim. What do you do, what are others doing? I decided to stick with what I was used to.

The race kicked off just after 9.30 and swim conditions were good. Somebody entered the water and forgot their hat, easily done as it was already warm, you don’t want to put it on to early! A bit more time to get into position, I was determined not to get hemmed in as I had at the 1st race at Brigg, which was a river swim so much narrower and more weeds, Manvers was pretty much weed free. I set my self up near the front of the group, and apart from the first 100 meters I pretty much had clear sight on the 2 lap swim. Breathing was good and I was into my swim rhythm. You have no idea who’s who on the swim all you can see are the coloured swim hats, and arms and feet. I knew Clare Addy would be leading the way then Helen Adams and I following usually neck and neck, but who knows, it all part of the excitement to see who’s around when you get to transition 1.

At Manvers the Bike leg is 2nd, and after a quick strip of the wetsuit, shoes and helmet on and some vital hydration unrack the bike and run to the mount line. I had not got far and I couldn’t clip my shoes shoe in, what was wrong, and after trying a couple of time I decided to stop and check out the problem. I had not removed my cleat covers! New lesson learnt, and covers removed I was back on my way, that’s one for the check list next time.

The bike and run course are both trail and a combination of surfaces; mainly gravel with a section of tarmac. There are a few obstacles along the way from bike gates and boulder sections to slow you down, and some tight narrow corners under the bridges, plus some bumpy sections of old tree roots to get you out of the saddle. I was using a cyclocross which was perfect for this race. The heat was rising and there was little breeze as you were riding along, bikers in front and behind for both Tri. and Quad., only the athlete numbers giving away which event they are in. It’s and out and back bike route and you get to see your fellow athletes along the way and there is lots of encouragement being shared, its really great to see this happening plus there were a few new athletes on the course. Don’t forget to smile for the photographer as well!

Back in to transition 2, bike kit off and paddle kit on, I decided to put my little feet covers on to run the 25 meter gravel section to the beach and collect my boat, I remember this from 2019. Dave and Dave were there as launch assist and its much appreciated so you don’t detach your rudder or fall in at the first hurdle. Back out onto the lake for the 5 laps. It was pretty hot now at 28 degrees. One athlete was completing the paddle section on a Stand Up Paddleboard, she had kindly lent her Kayak to a friend to try in this same race, amazing stuff, I’ll stick to the Kayak thanks. I realised I was in front in the ladies race, its a good feeling but I still had the run ahead of me and I’m not keen on running the heat so wanting maintain the lead I had, Helen would be hot on my rudder.

Kayak complete and last transition , take on more fluids, a little gel for some energy and I was off. Just out of the transition area there was a water station I nearly passed it by but the Marshalls said “WATER” I said I’ve just had some” she said have some more, and I was so pleased I did as it was hot out there at 30 + degrees. So thank you Marshall for the prompt.

Its 5km around the Manvers lake; there is a little bit of shade at the beginning then after that you’re exposed for the remainder, its flat and gravel all the way. Lance Ball came along side me on the run then passed and drifted off not the distance, I’d have like to have tried to stay with him but the humidity had sapped my energy. Over half way and not much further, I said keep running, 3km 4km and then I could see the boat house, last 1km and it was all over, 1 hour 54mins. I’d have like to have been a quicker on the run, but on reflection I was pleased with my efforts.

Thanks again to “EVERYBODY” for a great day, loads of friendly faces and smiles, great team work and a brilliant fun event.

Good luck to all fellow Quadrathletes for the remainder of the series and see you next time.

Lastly I would also like to say a big thank you to Mark Pryor for all his support this year with my training and making me “go do it” when its raining and cold, to the cleaning and maintenance of my bike and more .

Gillian

Norfolk SuperHeros 2023

Jean Ashley

The Norfolk Superhero is a charity quadrathlon for those who relish an endurance challenge. Participants take part in teams of two and together cover a course that includes a 1 mile swim, a 4 mile kayak through the creeks, a 45 mile circular cycle route and an 8 mile run across the beach finishing with the last mile over the marsh. Teams must stick together and help each other out although there is a good mix of competition on show as well.

This is a charity quadrathlon event held annually in June when the tides are right, at Burnham Overy Staithe on the beautiful North Norfolk coast.

​Over the years the Norfolk Superhero has grown from a small band of friends taking on a fun, annual challenge to more than 200 competitors coming together to put themselves to the test. While the challenge is undoubtedly a serious one, nobody takes themselves too seriously. Everyone has their own reasons for taking part, whether that be for fitness, fun, or friendship. What’s more, every year all the participants pledge to raise money to support Norfolk based charities, raising over £600k to date. Click here for more information on our chosen charity for 2023.

One of the key trademarks of the Norfolk Superhero spirit is the ‘buddy system’. People take part in teams of two, working together so they are able to help each other and share in the success of completing the challenge with another person. On the night of the event, we all celebrate together with dinner and dancing.

The spirit of the superhero, combining a quirky challenge, teamwork, friendly competition and fundraising for a local charity has been central to why people love taking part in this event year after year.

This year felt like it was going to be a good one before it had even started. The organising team
expanded last year with the arrival of Carlotta and Nick who were nicely bedded in for this year,
Jess and Riddy were promising big things on the catering and merch front, and we were all really excited about the charity we had chosen, NOURISHING NOR FOLK.

As always this has been an amazing Event, take a read of this years Race Report, if you fancy a crack at it next year you’ll need to get your Entries in Early … its always a sell out!

2023 Norfolk Superhero Challenge Report

Visit the Website www.norfolksuperhero.co.uk

Next Quad Race of the Season Dearne Valley Sprint Quad & QuadKidz 2023

Jean Ashley

BQA National Trophy RACE 2 – 25th June – Dearne Valley Sprint Quad & QuadKidz – This race takes place around the Manvers Waterpark and its surrounding area, all the racing takes place within this lovely venue. The aim is to deliver, a Quadrathon where people from all walks of life can participate. Mark Benton (organizer) quotes ‘All that we ask is that you enjoy your training towards it and feel a great sense of achievement afterwards’.

The Junior Quadrathlon will run along side the sprint event, the first ‘QuadKidz’ race of the season, with various distances for the 3 age groups … it will be time for our Quadkidz to Shine! 

​Team Manvers are offering training sessions through 2023 at the lake please see details below ‘Introduction to Quadrathlon – Training Days. If you are worried about any part of the event then please join us on one or more of these training days.

​Sprint Quadrathon – Swim, Bike, Paddle and Run

Sprint 800m Swim, 15k Bike, 4k Paddle, 5k Run – Start Time 9.30am Price £15
Quadkidz (ages 9-12): 100m Swim, 2k Bike, 400m Paddle, 2k Run – Start Time 8.30 Price £5
Quadkidz (ages 13-15): 200m Swim, 4k Bike, 800m paddle, 2k – Run – Start Time 8.30 Price £5
Quadkidz (ages 16-18): 800m Swim 15k Bike 4k paddle, 5k Run – Start Time 9.30am Price £5

​Showers, changing rooms available, on site café. Commemorative medal to all finishers. Limited number of kayaks available to use/hire

Enter Race – ENTER Dearne-valley-triathlon-quadrathon-2023

 

Introduction to Quadrathlon – Training Days

There are 10 Introduction to Quadrathlon Days through out the year – No experience is needed, and they are suitable for all standards. Come along and try Quadrathlon, we have plenty of  Helpers and Coaches who are very motivating and will be available to give you advice.

Summer (May to October) – Swim 8am, Ergo 9am, Paddle 10am, Bike 11.30am Run 12.30am

Winter (November to April) -Ergo 9am, Paddle 10am, Bike 11.30am Run 12.30am

Non Members Welcome – £5 Adults £3 Children – to include use of kayak, BA, Paddle and swim wetsuit. You will need to bring a gravel, hybrid or mountain bike (we may be able to loan you a bike) and running shoes, change of clothes etc. Open to all – suitable for all ages. Hot showers and cafe on site. Suitable for aspiring Quadkidz.

You will need to book a Space on the Training Day follow link below                                             Introduction-to-quadrathlon-new-and-nervous

 

Manvers Waterfront Boat Club are ready to Welcome you!
The Lake was created in the 1990’s as part of the remediation works following the closure of the Wath Main & Manvers Main colliery complex and associated railway yards. In addition to its amenity & recreational value, the lake also serves a functional purpose as a balancing lake forming part of a sustainable urban drainage scheme for the surrounding residential and industrial developments.

Manvers Waterfront Boat Club was formed in 2011 and is based at Manvers Lake near Wath-upon-Dearne, South Yorkshire. The club has the use of a purpose built boathouse which is owned and operated by Manvers Lake & Dearne Valley Trust Ltd, a charitable company formed in 2011 to look after the lake and surrounding area.

Since its formation the club has grown rapidly to its current size of over 600 members participating in a wide range of activities. The club currently has sections dedicated to paddlesports (canoeing and kayaking), triathlon, running, angling, open water swimming, windsurfing and model boating. The lake is also regularly used by our partners such as Dearne Valley College and other affiliated organisations.

Brigg Bomber European Championships 2023!

Jean Ashley

A great day was had by all in Brigg at the World European Championships, we were blessed with warm sunshine though quite a brisk breeze on the bike course. The numbers were on the low side but it was good too see Quadrathletes coming over from Hungary, Spain and Belgium!

Lincsquad organized the race in great style, the course was very well signed, with plenty of encouraging marshals along the way, considering they are a small Club these days they really did us Proud so a big thanks must go to them for hosting the Championships, and giving our Quadrathletes a fabulous day out!

The standard of racing was excellent, and with the Team from Belgium in the mix it made it very exciting to watch. Ferenc Csima(HUN), Nick Verduyckt(B), Team Belgium, Mat Stephenson(GB), William Peters(B) were all fairly close after the swim and bike, with Francisco Jose Lopes Perez(ESP) and our top GB athletes, Nigel Unwin, Oli Fairbairn, Jules Taylor and back after a long break Keith Longney were not far behind. The kayak leg certainly sorted the mix out with Ferenc taking a good lead, the Belgiums were all paddling fast with Francisco catching and Mat going into the run just slightly behind . As they moved onto the run the top 5 had sorted themselves out. But there was a battle further down the field between our other top age groupers, Nigel came in 2nd GB athlete, with Oli in 3rd overtaking Jules in 4th and Keith in 5th. There were plenty of other great results further down the field with our BQA Members certainly doing us proud!


The Belgium Team did the fastest time of the day 02:32:01, but with only 48 seconds to spare … a superb effort from our European Champion Ferenc!

]

Sadly there were only 5 ladies racing (injuries had stopped a few of our regular athletes from racing). However Gilian Melia put up a good fight to stay in contention, but Helen was going well and managed to hold her off she had a comfortable win in the end. Liz Dawson worked hard throughout to take 3rd. New to our sport was Grace Bird, she did very well, as she is new to kayaking. Our lovely BQA member Caz Jones certainly had the biggest smile of the day as she came over the finish line. It was the longest race she’d ever done, and a fantastic personnel achievement for her, we were all so proud cheer her over the finish line!

 

MENS Results (TOP 10)
1st Ferenc Csima(HUN) 02:32:49 1st Masters 50
2nd Nick Verduyckt(B) 02:35:24 1st Elite
3rd Francisco Jose Lopes Perez(ESP) 02:42:12 1st Masters 40

4th Mat Stephenson 02: 44:09 2nd Masters 50
5th William Peters 02:49:01 2nd Elite
6th Nigel Unwin 02:54:08 3rd Masters 50 (BQA)
7th Oli Fairbairn 02:54:27 3rd Elite (BQA)
8th Julian Taylor 02:54:58 1st Masters 60 (BQA)
9th Keith Longney 03:00:29 2nd Masters 60 (BQA)
10th Andrew Phillips 03:00:29 4th Masters 50

FEMALE Results
1st Helen Russell 03:10:05 1st Masters 40 (BQA)
2nd Gillian Mellia 03:18:48 1st Masters 50 (BQA)
3rd Liz Dawson 03:38:27 1st Masters 60 (BQA)
4th Grace Bird 03:46:09 1st Elite
5th Caroline Jones 04:32:06 2nd Masters 50 (BQA)

Well done to everyone that raced and a special ‘Well Done’ to all our BQA members that took part in the European Championships! Nick Farnell, Philippe Jumeau, Lance Ball, Wayne Smith, John McAdam, Peter Chappill, David Browning and John Redmond, thank you for flying the BQA Flag!

There was also a Sprint Quad that took place, so well done and a great effort from those 5 too!
1st Paul Connolly 01:40:04
2nd Ryan Birkitt 02:02:36
3rd Andrew Lawson 02:05:40 (BQA)
1st FEMALE Hermione Ball 02:07:24 (BQA)
4th David Jones 02:24:23 (BQA)

Brigg Bomber RESULTS

National Trophy Points BQA British Trophy 2023. RACE 1

World Cup Results after 2 Races World Cup 2023. RACE 2

Lots of Photos on FB PAGE  facebook PHOTOS Lincsquaduk

Thank you to all that made this race happen, it was also great to see some of our ‘top athletes from the past, coming back to race again’ we certainly enjoyed reminiscing about the good old days back in the Czech Republic, the post race parties were wild in those days … though we did enjoyed the banter and celebrating in ‘Wetherspoons’ post race too, once again the Belgium Team were on TOP form, and we had a super evening! 

Once again a Huge Thank you must go to the Race organizers ‘Lincsquad’ in particular Team Leaders ‘Jeff and Donna Chappill’ and all the marshals for all their hard work. It’s a big effort to organize races for our small sport and as Quadrathletes we really do appreciate the time that goes into putting on these races … So on behalf the BQA  ‘THANK YOU’ See you again soon …

Your ‘Fairy Quadmother’ Jean x  

Thank you for this RACE REPORT from Jules Taylor Vet 60 European Champion!

I’d been looking forward to the first race of the season for a long time ….and was incredibly nervous as such, my training in general had been good , but not consistent which had been my own fault.

The swim start did nothing to calm me down and I was really not looking forward to getting in with so many others in close proximity, I do all my swim training in a pool , so I’d not enough experience with cold water and other swimmers .The first 10 minutes was exactly as stressful as I expected, but once we all spread out, it settled down and I had a decent swim after all .

T1 went well, and easing into the bike I started to close in and pass quite a few others. A lot warmer than last year , no issues , and back in for T2 .

Having switched last years surfski for a decent K1, I felt confident and was soon moving well.

Keith ( Longney ) Vet 60 had swam and biked well and was a minute ahead , and Oli Fairburn got on the water alongside me .

I last raced against Keith at the World Championships in Sedlcany nearly 20 years ago , so it was brilliant to be up against each other again….I had a score to try and settle as twice previously Keith had beaten me!

Within 10 minutes  I’d caught and passed Keith, and coming up to the turn point could check accurately where I was,  if I could keep Keith at bay I knew was in with a good chance of top V60. Pacing in the kayak went well alongside Oli , we stayed close for the whole discipline and came out with a couple of seconds between us .

T3 went swiftly and out on the run. It was a hot, mentally a hard run out and back , but once legs had recovered from the kayak I started to move well. Oli and I stayed quite close , swapping leads a few times , and in the last kilometer youth won over and Oli eased ahead. 

At the turn point I noted the time when Keith passed, he gave me a 4 minute buffer for the last 5km, I felt comfortable and knew I could hold him off . I finished with not very much left in the tank and it was awesome to be V60 European Champion .

A fantastic competitive race which for me got better and better as it went on. Looking at the results it had been a really close one between Nigel, Oli, and myself….only 50 seconds covered us all after close to 3 hours racing, all of us losing and gaining depending on the discipline…..it’s a brilliant sport!  Congratulations to everyone who took part, I had beaten Keith at long last, he was GB’s leading Quadrathlete for many years an excellent competitor, and I’m sure he’ll be back to challenge me before too long!  

See you all at Manvers …. Jules

 

 

‘Bomber’ Familiarization Days

Jean Ashley

Instead of the training camp which Lincsquad have organized over the past few years, this year they have decided to organize some ‘Bomber’ route familiarization sessions instead.

The dates are in May on 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th 16th 18th and 19th. Training will be available as ‘route familiarization’ and Lincsquad members have been allocated to guide prospective quadrathletes through the different disciplines routes. This is a great opportunity for those who are not sure of the routes, or those that fancy a training session on the course.

Anyone interested can contact Pete Chappill at petch0252@gmail.com with their preferred date times and discipline requirements.

Thank You Lincsquad …. a Great Offer open to all Quadrathletes!

Your ‘World Quadrathlon Federation’

Jean Ashley

I just wanted to introduce you to the WQF our World Governing Body, behind the scenes they work very hard, to keep ‘World Quadrathlon’ moving forwards.  The World Quadrathlon Federation (WQF) is the international sport governing body for Quadrathlon. It was established 1997 as ‘European Quadrathlon Federation’ and exists since 2001 as ‘World Quadrathlon Federation’. The WQF has her seat in the Czech Republic and is there registered in the Ministry of Interior, Electoral and Association Department. Our Voting member Nations at present are  CZE, GBR, GER, and HUN.

At the end of each year we have a ‘World Congress’ to review our sport and look how we can move forwards. We check out new races and federations from across the World, and this year we have taken over management and maintenance of the WQF websites, updated our ‘Sport Order’ (Rules and Regulations), and put together your ‘2023 World Cup Series’. These are just a few of the tasks the WQF do for us all …. so a Big Thank-you to the ‘WQF’ Team below, for your hard work and dedication, it is appreciated by Quadrathletes from the World over!

Executive Board: President – Václav Marek
Vice-President – Jean Ashley
Secretary/WQF Results Tables  – John Kavanagh
Chair of Technical Matters – Ferenc Csima
Treasurer/Website  – Bernd Scheller

For your Information below – WQF Constitution, 2023 Sport Order (Rules & Regulations) and the 2023 World Cup Series and Championship Races. www.quadrathlon.com/world-cup/

WQF-Constitution

WQF-Sport-Order 2023

WORLD CUP RACES 2023

18 March – Terceira – Sprint (POR)
28 May – Brigg – Middle (GBR) Middle European Championships
3 June – Hannover – Sprint (GER) Sprint European Championships
Cancelled – Kasposvar – Sprint (HUN)
24 June – Tyn – Sprint (CZE)
8 July – Bydgoszcz – Sprint (POL)
5 Aug – Nagyatád Gyékényes – Long (HUN) Long World Championships
26 Aug – Bohinj – Middle (SLO) (MTB)
2 Sept- Ratscher – Sprint (GER) Sprint World Championships
3 Sept – Shrewsbury – Sprint (GBR)
10 Sept – Tiszafüred – Middle (HUN) Middle World Championships
10 Sept – Cazalegas – Sprint (ESP)

 

2023 Race Season Its Ready for YOU!!

Jean Ashley

Happy New Year Everyone! I hope you’ve all had a good recovery and your ready to kick start your 2023! Hears a few reasons why you should get these dates in your Race Calender ….. get your entries in and have a reason to start training, having a goal does wonders for your motivation, so start your training right now!

I am so pleased to announce the ‘The Brigg Bomber’ will be hosting the EUROPEAN Championships, and Shrewsbury Sprint will also be a WQR Race! Our Fabulous Race in gorgeous Bude , Cornwal  ‘The Awesome Foursome’ will be our NATIONAL Championships! 

Here is a Run Down of whats ahead!

BQA National Trophy Events for 2023

RACE 1 – 28th May – Brigg Bomber Quad – WORLD CUP & European Championships  1500m river swim/8km river kayak/40km road bike/10km road run.

A superb race to start the season, extremely well organized by our Top Quadrathlon Club ‘Lincsquad’ a fast flat and safe course, its the European Championships so certainly not to be missed, Lincsquad will certainly pull out all the stops to make this a brilliant day!

RACE 2 – 25th June – Dearne Valley Sprint Quad and QuadKidz – 800m lake swim/4.4km lake kayak/13.2km X/MT bike/5km trail run.

This race takes place around the Manvers Waterpark and its surrounding area, all the racing takes place within this lovely venue, this race gets better each year! The aim is to deliver, a Quadrathon where people from all walks of life can participate. Mark Benton (organizer) quotes ‘All that we ask is that you enjoy your training towards it and feel a great sense of achievement afterwards’. The Junior Quadrathlon will run along side the sprint event, with various distances for the 3 age groups … it will be time for our Quadkidz to Shine!

RACE 3 – 3rd September – Shrewsbury Sprint Quad WORLD CUP – 500m river swim/4km river kayak/23 road bike/5km run.

This race just keeps getting stronger and stronger, and is well worthy of its World Cup Status! An excellent fast, flat sprint race, running on the back of a very popular Triathlon. A great day out with a superb race atmosphere, with lots of support especially on the 3 lap run course around the Showground! A real ‘feel good friendly race’ instigated and organized by one of our very passionate quadrathletes along with SYTri … one not to be missed!

RACE 4– 9th September – Awesome Foursome Quad  National Championships – 800m sea swim/30km road bike/10km canal kayak/10km road run.

This is one of our longest running established Quadrathlons, in beautiful Cornwall in the surfing town of Bude. It never ceases to amaze me, I have raced it in all weathers …. it is always a brilliant exciting and challenging race and a great end the race season! Swimming in the sea, there’s plenty of hills on the bike, a historic canal for the kayak and amazing coastal views on the run! It’s one of those addictive races that keeps drawing you back. The race is on a Saturday so plenty of time for sun, sand and surf too!

RACE 5 – 1st September – Keyo Lincs Sprint Quad – 750m river swim/4km river kayak/19km road bike/5km road run.

Big Thanks to Lincsquad for adding this New Quadrathlon to our calendar last year! The course is flat, fast and ideal for both experienced quadrathletes and those wanting to race the shorter distance. It’s the final Trophy Race of the Season so lots of point to be had and a great way to finish the season.

All links to these races are on our ‘events’ page. I hope I have tempted you …. keep you eye on the events page as some race organizers may offer early bird race discounts!

You must be a BQA member to race for the ‘GB TEAM’ at the World Championships or in a World Cup race, and also to qualify for all BQA prizes in the National Trophy Series. We do need your memberships to help fund our sport. Money goes towards various areas within the organization, one being our website, where we keep you updated with the latest news and events. Our biggest annual outlay is insurance, which we use to cover the races on the British Quad Calendar, without this insurance many of our races wouldn’t take place. We also affiliate to the World Quadrathlon Association ‘WQF’ so our athletes can race at World Cup Races the World and European Championships. The future of British Quadrathlon is in our hands, so please support the BQA and you will be helping to keep our small sport alive! BQA 2023 Membership Google Doc

BQA 2023 Trophy Series
28th May – Brigg Bomber
25th June – Dearne Valley Sprint & QuadKidz
3rd Sept – Shrewsbury Sprint Quad
9th Sept – Awesome Foursome Quad                                                                                                      1st Keyo Lincs Sprint Quad

Races supported by BQA (not Trophy Races)
20th May – Montgomery Canal Triathlon (Charity Event)
10th June – Norfolk SuperHeroes Quad
16th July – Deva Divas Ladies only Quad

WORLD CUP SERIES 2023

18 March – Terceira – Sprint (POR)
28 May Brigg – Middle (GBR) Middle European Championships
3 June – Hannover – Sprint (GER) Sprint European Championships
17 June – Kasposvar – Sprint (HUN)
24 June – Tyn – Sprint (CZE)
8 July – Bydgoszcz – Sprint (POL)
5 Aug – Nagyatád Gyékényes – Long (HUN) Long World Championships
26 Aug – Bohinj – Middle (SLO) (MTB)
2 Sept – Ratscher – Sprint (GER) Sprint World Championships
3 Sept – Shrewsbury – Sprint (GBR)
10 Sept – Tiszafüred – Middle (HUN) Middle World Championships
10 Sept – Cazalegas – Sprint (ESP)

More details on our EVENTS PAGE

 

BQA 2022 Annual Report

Jean Ashley

This year on the whole, has certainly been an improvement on the last two years, with Covid restrictions gone and many athletes getting back to training and getting their ‘race heads’ back on! We had 4 Quads in our calendar, with sadly Bude having to be cancelled due to a dried up canal caused by a major leak! The numbers racing across the board were were reasonable, but hopefully we can continue to build on getting more athletes into our sport next season. Please keep spreading the word and as always thank you for your valuable membership and ongoing support, it’s so much appreciated by your Governing Body ‘The BQA’.

I would like to say a Big Thank – You to our Race Organizers who very successfully did us proud yet again, and also to every single one of you that made it to the start line this year, be proud of what you have achieved and we look forward to seeing you again next season!

If you’d like to read our Annual Report 2022 and Onwards & Upwards 2023 please see the link below. As always we are welcome to ideas, and suggestions for future events, so if you have any thoughts or contacts please get in touch.

BQA- ANNUAL REPORT & AGM 2022

Thanks Jean BQA Secretary – malpasashleys@btinternet.com