Despite the entries being low, (compared to the World Cup Race last year) there was certainly some great Racing at Box End Sprint Quad on Sunday 17th July. Our top GB Quadrathletes were out in force and over two thirds of the competitors were all BQA members all supporting this great race! Superb conditions warm with a slight breeze and excellent under foot and tyre for the cross bikes! Once again great organization and all within the Watersports Park, ideal for spectators …. You couldn’t wish a better way to spend a morning, dressed in Lycra, surrounded by the best crowd of like-minded athletes!
In the men’s event Steve Rust was first out of the swim (11.19), with Steve King (non wetsuit) and Adam Norfolk close behind. Steve and Adam soon took the lead in the kayaks producing the joint fastest split (26.50). Steve Rust and Oliver Main also had good kayak legs, but once Steve King got on the bike he started to pull away (split 38.00), Adam chased hard but Steve held him off to keep the lead in to the run. Julian Brewer, Phil Holden and Steve Rust also had good bike legs and the final positions were to be decided on the run. Steve King maintained the lead to win (1.40.21) also winning Vet 40, with Adam in 2nd (1.43.17). Julian Brewer having worked his way up the field was now running very well and moved into 3rd to take Vet 50 (1.54.37) leaving Steve Rust, Phil Holden, and Oliver Main to fight for 4th 5th and 6th place. They finished in that order Steve (1.56.30) Phil (1.57.17) Oliver (1.57.47).
There were many creditable performances from our supportive BQA members
7th Mark Pryor (2.01.03) had the time to organize his event and race it too!
8th Stuart West (2.01.46)
9th Russell Breyer (2.02.29)
11th Lance Ball (2.06.59)
12th Peter Chappill (2.08.27)
19th John Redmond (2.25.20) 1st VET 60
In the Ladies event Jacqueline Davis had a very strong swim (12.30) with Jean Ashley in 2nd place. Jean chased her down in the kayak (her best discipline – 31.37) to move into the lead. It was the twins Mary White and Margaret Huyton who were the ‘super cross bike stars’, both of them putting in very creditable bike splits. Mary chased Jean and moved into 2nd place. Jean held her off to take the overall win and Vet 50 (2.09.43), Mary 2nd and Vet 60 (2.11.34) Jacqueline held on to 3rd and Vet 40 (2.21.09). Margaret 4th (2.30.34) A special mention must go to Louise Beedham (19yrs) she put in a very good performance (2.43.46), it’s her first year at racing Quadrathlon, she is still mastering the 4 disciplines and having done the Brigg Bomber she decided to continue to train and race, with the challenge of doing 3 in the BQA National Trophy Series …she is certainly showing true commitment to conquering the 4 disciplines, well done Louise!
Must mention BQA member Cliff Odgers in his first Quadrathlon … ‘he was doing really well having almost mastered his K1 paddling, then his chain went and snapped on the first hill! ‘Really sorry Cliff …. sack the bike mechanic’!!!
Once again a big thanks to Mark Pryor, Gillian and his Team from Quadrac racing, for the excellent race, marshaling, time keeping and superb goodie bags (I must say there aren’t many Triathlons you get a silicon swim hat, lovely Tech T-shirt, a tube of Jaffa cakes, naked bar and a posh multi vitamin drink all for £25!!!) Great Value Mark!
Quadrathletes please keep supporting our Quad races, we do NEED your support, this race was on the verge of being cancelled due to lack of entries and it did run at a loss …. So PLEASE spread the word and lets fill the 50 Quadrathlon slots at Shreswbury Sprint Quad on 4th September, check the race out on our ‘Events page’
Thanks again to everyone who supported Box End Quad …. we hope you enjoyed it and you’ll be back for more!
Three things you can always guarantee about The Brigg Bomber, 1 – superb organization with the friendliest race crew and marshals ever, 2 – brilliant and exciting racing and 3 – a brilliant quality T-Shirt not a bike cleaning cloth! They did it again Lincsquad pulled off a Superb European Championships and we even had a dry day with some sunshine too!
It was so good to see lots of our GB athletes winning trophies, old names and new names alike, great to see paddlers David and Matt Oliver back racing Quadrathlon too. Our European athletes coped with the British weather and all produced superb results! There were plenty of keen Quadrathletes all embracing the challenge of four disciplines and enjoying this great championship race.
Michael Mason
The start list in the men’s race was very impressive 5 of the World’s Best, plus plenty of top age groupers too. The Ancholme was a ‘tad’ chilly but with plenty of adrenalin flowing it soon warmed up, Stefan Teichert (GER) was first out 20.36 with Steve King (GBR) just seconds behind 20.42, then the top favourite Enrique Peces (ESP) 30 seconds behind. King and Teichert were paddling well close together it was only at the final bridge Peces overtook them both. GBR athletes Michael Mason and Adam Norfolk established themselves in the top 5 by paddling the fastest kayak splits, Mason 36.57 and Norfolk 37.14
Adam Norfolk
The bike course is fast and flat and King put in an excellent top split 54.48 giving him a great lead. Peces held onto 2nd with Teichert 3rd Mason and Norfolk were close behind going into the run where the final results were to be made! Peces running the fastest split of the day 35.25 went into the lead overtaking King at 3km. Teichert was closing on King, but on the second lap Mason was running strong and moved into 3rd place, leaving Teichert in 4th. Norfolk put in the 2nd fastest run of the day 36.12 to take 5th place … Quadrathlon Racing at its very best! So plenty of excitement for the spectators!
Steve King Silver + Gold Vet 40European Champion Gold Enrique Peces
Lisa Teichert
The Womens event saw Lisa Teichert (GER) going into the lead from the start, new comer Sandra Hyslop (ex GB Team Wildwater Racer) came in 2nd after the swim. Sandra’s kayak was the fastest split by 1 second 42.59. Jean Ashley having her strong kayak leg moved into 3rd place overtaking Helen Dyke. Lisa pulled away on the bike, whilst Jean started to close in on Sandra. However just like the men’s race it would all be decided on the run leg! Lisa by this time was well and truly unstoppable! Sandra was holding onto 2nd place with Jean 3rd with one lap to go. Helen is known to us all for her epic running, and in true style running a 39.49 split, on the 2nd lap she over took Jean and finally Sandra to move into 2nd place.
Sandra HyslopHelen Dyke
Jack Garner and guide Peter Chappill
Congratulations to all finishers, especially U23 Jack Garner and his guides who came home in an amazing 3.31.41. Also Lincsquad’s junior Louise Beedham winning Junior Gold! There were plenty of BQA members flying the flag too, many of them taking Championship titles … a great start to the Season!
There were lots of other very creditable performances, and many personal goals achieved … I’m not quite sure what it is about our sport that makes it special, but every athlete that crosses the finish line has that little extra sense of achievement knowing they have just completed a Quadrathlon!
Once again a Big Thanks to ‘Lincsquad’ who certainly put the Brigg Bomber on the World Circuit in True Style, and hopefully motivated many onlookers, and athletes in the Team Event to maybe go Solo next year!
1 Enrique Peces (ESP) 2:32:50 Gold+ Elite Gold
2 Steve King (GBR) 2:35:50 Silver + Vet 40 Gold
3 Michael Mason (GBR) 2:36:31 Bronze + Vet 40 Silver
4 Stefan Teichert (GER) 2:37:09 Elite Silver
5 Adam Norfolk (GBR) 2:37:46 Elite Bronze
6 Nigel Unwin (GBR) 2.49.24 Vet 50 Gold
7 Dave Bradburn 2.50.31 Vet 40 Bronze + 1st Newcomer
Julian Brewer 3.04.36 Vet 50 Silver
Mark Pryor 3.07.38 Vet 50 Bronze
John Redmond 3.53.27 Vet 60 Gold
Andrew Gage 4.12.10 Vet 60 Silver
Women
1 Lisa Hirschfelder (GER) 2:54:17 Gold+ Elite Gold
2 Helen Dyke (GBR) 3:13:37 Silver + Vet 40 Gold
3 Sandra Hyslop (GBR) 3:14:52 Bronze+ Elite Silver
4 Jean Ashley (GBR) 3:19:05 Vet 50 Gold
5 Victoria Price (GBR)3:35:38 Elite Bronze
Susan Couch (GBR) 4.05.36 Vet 40 Silver
Louise Beedham 4.08.05 Junior Gold
Other Age Group ‘BQA Members’ Gold Medal Winners
Nigel Unwin Vet 50 GoldJohn Redmond Vet 60 GoldJean Ashley
The News you have all been waiting for … I now have all our British Races confirmed, and also the World Cup Races too! Thanks to all involved ‘behind the scenes’ hear in GB and in Europe, for getting our Race Season organized … all we need to do now, is enter the races!
I hope your all feeling motivated and ready for action. The Race Season is getting closer, so if your wanting some dates for your diary’s hears a reminder and an insight to our BQA Trophy Events for 2016!
I am so pleased to announce the ‘The Brigg Bomber’ will be hosting the EUROPEAN Championships, and that Bude ‘Awesome Foursome’ will be our NATIONAL Championships!
RACE 1 – 29th May – Brigg Bomber Quad – EUROPEAN Championships/World Cup – A superb race to start the season, extremely well organized by our Top Quadrathlon Club ‘Lincsquad’ a fast flat and safe course, its the British National Championships and the first World Cup race too so lots of points! Just to top it off they have an excellent T- shirt Tour of the Brigg Pubs to celebrate … certainly not to be missed!!
RACE 2 – 12th June – South Yorkshire Quad –This race is hopefully going to host the British Championships in 2016, so its an ideal chance to learn the course and try the lake and its surrounding area out …. check out this excellent Water Park its a lovely venue, and would be great if you can support this new race, organized by a very enthusiastic group of kayakers and triathletes.
RACE 3 – 17th July – Box End Sprint Quad –A very well established and superbly organized by Quadrac racing, the whole event held within the Box End Waterpark. It’s ideal for youngsters, beginners as it’s a sprint distance and support crews can see the whole race from the lovely lake side café. It’s the first time it has been give World Cup Status so we need to give this race the backing it deserves. Excellent camping on site too …. And you can even try your hand at wake boarding!
RACE 4 – 4th September – Shrewsbury Sprint Quad-This race just keeps getting stronger and stronger, 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 … not to be missed!
RACE 5 – 18th September – Fabian 4 Mountain Tri –This race promises to be back with vengeance and it will certainly challenge that inner self! Superb scenery, tracks and trails brilliantly organized by very friendly like minded athletes, it will certainly boost your adrenalin and you’ll have an amazing sense of achievement when you cross that finish line ….. exit your comfort zone and enjoy!
RACE 6 – 24th September – Awesome Foursome Quad NATIONAL Championships –This is one of our longest running etablished Quadrathlons, this race in Bude never ceases to amaze me, I have raced it in all weathers …. it is always a brilliant exciting and challenging race to end the season! Starting in the sea, there’s plenty of hills, a historic canal and amazing coastal views … 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!
All links to these races are on our ‘events’ page.
I hope I have tempted you …. Please keep you eye on our the ‘events’ page as some race organizers may offer Early Bird Race discounts and BQA Member Discounts! Happy Training and Racing 2016 … and don’t forget your BQA 2015 membership, we would love your support again Membership_Form 2016 ….. THANKS Jean Ashley
If your are looking to Race in Europe these are the World Cup and Championship Races
RACE 1- 15th May – Orfü, HUN – WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS MIDDLE DISTANCE
The Final BQA Trophy Race of the 2015 Season, took part in Bude on Saturday 19th September – This is one of our longest running established Quadrathlons, this race never ceases to amaze me, I have raced it in all weathers …. but on Saturday we were blessed with the best weather I’ve ever raced at Bude in. The sea was flat, there was no wind, the paddle was very calm in the canal, the hills were still tough but being dry they seemed easier to climb, and the views were spectacular on the undulating run course!
Nigel Unwin
Local athletes, and ‘Teams’ took the next few places, but not far behind Oliver Main came 7th (3rd V40) 3.11.27 Oliver has completed 4 BQA trophy races this year.
Other BQA athletes flying the flag and racing very well were – Russel Brayer 8th (2nd V50) 3.14.02. – Ned Price 9th (3rd V50) 3.16.36 – and Peter Chappill 12th 3.29.08. John Kavanagh battled on despite feeling poorly, he eventually called it a day during the kayak. John has had a superb season it was a great shame he was unwell for the last race.
Jean Ashley took the individual lead on the swim and had a solid performance throughout winning in 3.25.24 (1st V50) with Emma Bartrop in 2nd 3.51.28 (1st V40). There were plenty of excellent lady athletes in Teams and Pairs, and here’s hoping they may go solo next year! Helen Parkinson a well know previous winner of the event, teamed up in a mixed pair (due to injury) still performing well in the swim and kayak she took the Pairs title.
A Big Thank-you to Simon, his family of helpers and all his Marshalls for putting on another great race … everyone enjoyed the day! The race was done and dusted by 2.00pm and as it was a Saturday there was plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the weekend. Bude was buzzing … with a Food Festival, plus Live Music which entertained us, and there was plenty of surfing and body boarding to be had! If you didn’t make the race this year …. make sure its in your calendar for 2016 …. you’ll love it!
The BQA 2015 National Trophy prizes were also presented – Congratulations to Overall Winners Nigel Unwin and Jean Ashley, Phil Holden V40, Ned Price V50 and John Kavanagh V60.
The Final BQA Trophy Race of the 2015 Season, will take place in Bude on Saturday 19th September – This is one of our longest running established Quadrathlons, this race in Bude never ceases to amaze me, I have raced it in all weathers …. it is always a brilliant exciting and challenging race to end the season! Starting in the sea, there’s plenty of hills, a historic canal and amazing coastal views … it’s one of those addictive races that keeps drawing you back.
Distances – 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. http://www.shorelineactivities.co.uk/foursome.quadrathlon.event
THE BQA will be also presenting the 2015 Trophy Series Prizes, so its the last race to get those vital points!
Adam Norfolk and Jean Ashley are the overall leaders to date, but things could change depending on who is racing at Bude! Phil Holden is leading Vet 40, Nigel Unwin Vet 50 and John Kavanagh Vet 60.
Remember it’s 3 races to count and you must be a BQA 2015 member to take the prizes.(In the event of a tie the 4th race points will count to decide the winner)
Overall Winners take the BQA Perpetual Trophy – Male and Female, plus BQA Kit vouchers. Also Kit vouchers for Male and Female winners in each category, Juniors (u23), Seniors, V40+, V50+, and V60+ Eric Hatliff Memorial Trophy is awarded each year ‘For Endeavor’ given to an athlete showing his enthusiasm and commitment to the sport of Quadrathlon.
Shrewsbury once again gave us a great day’s racing, blue skies, a calm fast river, if a ‘tad’ cold, with a strong current down stream but hard work up! A slight wind on the undulating bike course, and a fast flat run with the occasional muddy patch … all in all fantastic conditions for racing! We had good strong field of Quadrathletes, our top athletes and age groupers, plus 12 newcomers who all gave it their best and finished with happy faces!
Congratulations to Winner Steve King who took the lead from the start, with Adam Norfolk hot on his heels just 10 seconds behind after the swim/kayak. Steve put in the ‘joint fastest bike split of the day’ (shared with the overall winner of the Triathlon), he was a good 2 minutes ahead, however Adam put in the fastest run of the Quadrathlon but was still not able to catch him. Steve’s time -1.22.09, Adam 1.23.57. Meanwhile there was a battle for 3rd place with Stuart West coming in 3rd after the kayak, Nigel Unwin overtook him on the bike and ran well to hold his 3rd place 1.29.05. Stuart finished in 4th 1.32.49. BQA members Andy Childs and Phil Holden were battling on the run to finish 5th. Andy just held Phil off 1.36.34 with Phil in 6th 1.36.45.
Exiting her Kayak winner Jean Ashley
In the Ladies event Jean Ashley finally took first place. After taking the lead on the kayak, she was overtaken on the last mile of the bike, Jean had a speedy transition and the two leaders went out on the run together. Jean pushed hard and went into the lead finishing in – 1.45.14 with Jacqueline Davis, a strong Triathlete, (competing in her first Quadrathlon) in 2nd, just a minute behind 1.46.11. Another great performance in her first Quadrathlon was Heather Streetly she finished 3rd in 1.53.55. A great effort from all the other females who for many of them it was their first Quad …. and judging by their smiles ‘not their last’!
There was a great turnout of BQA Members, all getting valuable National Trophy Points, with 2 more races left their are no clear winners yet!I Thank-you to BQA athletes flying the flag this weekend, good to see you all. Duncan Pearson in 8th back in fine form after an injury 1.37.21. John Kavanagh 13th (1st vet 60) 1.41.27, and just behind his training buddy Ned Price 14th 1.42.08. Peter Chappill 18th also back from injury 1.44.38 looking strong again. John Redmond finish well 20th in 1.53.43 and great to see Alistair Bates Vet 60 back again, enjoying his race and finishing well in 25th … but 2nd Vet 60! Our other BQA member Margaret Huyton also Vet 60 came 5th lady overall putting in her best Quadrathlon performance to date …. Great Results Everyone.
The More Mature Quadrathletes – but super fit 🙂 … Peter, John, Ned and Jean
The Trophy Standings are still open with 3 races to count (must be a BQA Member to claim the Trophy/Prize). Nigel Unwin is in the overall lead at the moment having done 3 races, along with Phil Holden, John Kavanagh and Ned Price. Adam Norfolk is 5th but has another race to do, which could change the positions after the Fabian 4 this weekend. Jean Ashley is winning the ladies trophy but once again there are still 2 races left! So Good Luck to everyone racing at the Fabian 4 and the following weekend at Bude …. lets hope we get Sunshine like Shrewsbury!
I would like to say a huge thank-you to Gill Otto and SYtri for letting us, once again be part of there triathlon, British Quadrathlon really appreciate this ….. superbly organized, very friendly and great value for money, you left no stone unturned! The marshals were brilliant …. along with their ‘cow bells’ they made us feel very welcome. It was so good to see plenty of onlookers enjoying the Quadrathlon, and I have had so much positive feedback from the Quadrathletes, and from Triathletes all wanting to add another discipline next year! We hope SYTri will have us back next year for another great race….. thank -you.
September is certainly going to be a busy month for British Quadrathlon, hopefully you’ve had a great summer and you’re ready to finish of the season with our great races, and some excellent results, whether it be a win, a PB, or simply just to finish with a smile!
6th September – Shrewsbury Sprint Triathlon will be our 3rd BQA Trophy Race of the season, entries are now closed. This race just keeps getting stronger and stronger, 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 quadrathlete’s ‘Gill Otto’ Sprint distance – 500m downstream swim, 4.5km kayak (from the showground to the Pengwern rowing club pontoon and back), 23k road ride out towards Baschurch and a few laps of honor around the showground provide the 5k run to finish, such a good fast and very safe course.
13th September – Fabian4 Dyffryn Conwy Mountain Challenge – Race 4–If you fancy something a bit different to round off the season this is a kayak-trail run-mountain bike event which is brilliant fun. This race promises to be back with vengeance and it will certainly challenge that inner self! Superb scenery, tracks and trails brilliantly organized by very friendly like minded athletes, it will certainly boost your adrenalin and you’ll have an amazing sense of achievement when you cross that finish line ….. exit your comfort zone and enjoy!
Distances – Kayak 13km, Fell Run 12km, MTBike 19km
If you don’t feel up to doing the whole event you can enter as a team of 3 (with at least 1 woman in the team) and do one leg each.
Check it out at http://www.map17events.org.uk to see a video preview and full details.
19th September – Awesome Foursome Quad – Race 5 -This is one of our longest running etablished Quadrathlons, this race in Bude never ceases to amaze me, I have raced it in all weathers …. it is always a brilliant exciting and challenging race to end the season! Starting in the sea, there’s plenty of hills, a historic canal and amazing coastal views … it’s one of those addictive races that keeps drawing you back.
Distances – 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 race is on a Saturday so plenty of time for sun, sand and surf too!
Shoreline Extreme Sports have got all the details on their website, its well worth a visit! It has a page for the ‘Awesome Foursome’ which includes an online entry system, which is open for Bude entries! It also has lots of other exciting activities you can try whilst visiting Bude in September for the Quad! PLEASE get your entry in ….. you will love it! http://www.shorelineactivities.co.uk/foursome.quadrathlon.event
THE BQA will be also presenting the 2015 Trophy Series Prizes, so its the last race to get those vital points! Im sure all these races will be well worth a trip, I hope too see you at all 3 or at least one of our September Quadrathlons!
The BQA wish to say ‘Thank-you’ and a big Congratulations to Lincsquad for putting on yet another very successful Brigg Bomber. I have had lots of compliments and messages from very happy Quadrathletes all with very positive comments from their own race experiences, and as ever praising those wonderful marshals who turn out year after year, stand in the rain and encourage everyone! (it doesn’t rain every year!) A Big Thanks to all Lincsquad who helped make this great race happen, and once again a very worthy National Quadrathlon Championships 2015!
Michael Mason
Despite a lot of the BQA regulars missing due to other racing commitments and injury the racing was just as competitive and very exciting! First out of the swim was Junior Will Jackson about two minutes ahead of Michael Mason and Nigel Unwin. Mason showed his strength in the kayak and took the lead six minutes faster than anyone else in the kayak, he remained in the lead with a class performance on the bike. Unwin was a minute faster on bike, but Mason’s running was in a class of its own and he won by an outstanding 10 minutes (2:34:51)
2nd place was secured by Unwin (2:45:30), whilst Phil Holden moved into 3rd (2:03:41) with the young Will Jackson just behind (2:03:41). In 5th place then was the oldest starter John Kavanagh V60 a superb performance showing us all ‘age shows no bounds’.
Jack Garner
A special mention must go to Jack Garner, who finished in 16 place, Jack who is blind is connected by a cord in swimming and running, whist biking on a tandem, and kayaking in double kayak – total respect!
In the women’s race, Helen Dyke, the three-time world champion (2006-08) was back in Brigg. Helen and the previous year’s third place, Claire Moran came out of the swim together, but strong kayaker Claire took the lead by 14 minutes in the kayak. After cycling Helen was 8 minutes behind, but with Helen’s run, her strongest discipline to come she started to chase Claire down. It was only in the final straight that Helen moved into 1st place, a superb fight to the end! Helen (3:09:27) Claire (3:09:59). Third place went Sarah Allars (3:20:53) whilst Lincsquad’s own Sallie Joesph came in a very creditable 4th (3:29:51). Sister to the Male Vet 60 John Kavanagh, Mary White also came in 5th winning the Female Vet 60 prize … good family genes!
There were plenty of PB’s and personal achievements plus some exciting racing in the Team Event with TATA 340 from Scunthorpe taking 1st prize (2:44:17). Well done to all you Quadrathletes out there, and lets hope its a great start to your race season!
Overall Winners
Nigel Unwin 2nd Overall
MALE
Michael Mason (overall and Vet 40) 2:34:51
Nigel Unwin (Vet 50) 2:45:30
John Kavanagh (Vet 60) 3:07:01
Jack Garner (U23) 3:31:28
Will Jackson (Junior) 3:03:41 FEMALE
Helen Dyke (overall and Vet 40) 3:09:27
Julie Dimaline (Vet 50) 4:16:53
Mary White (Vet 60) 3:40:51
Isabella Jenkins & Flora Hay (U23) 4:29:09
Phil Holden 3rd, Michael Mason 1st, Nigel Unwin 2ndSarah Allars 3rd, Helen Dyke 1st, Claire Moran 2ndHigh Five to Stephen Cannings BQA from Steve Dolby BQA Kit Co-ordinatorJohn Kavanagh BQA Vet 60 ChampionPhil Holden 3rd Overall
Lance Ball new to Quadrathlon 2 years ago has written this race report of his day, it’s a great example of the feel good factor of the Race and to the sport we all enjoy and love. Thanks for sharing Lance … Enjoy the read!
I wasn’t sure whether I was looking forward to Brigg or not. I have raced this event the last two years, so knew that Lincsquad really do put on a great event. However, I hadn’t ventured into open water swimming yet this year as I much prefer the water to be a bit warmer.
As always, my family came along as support and we arrived the night before so at least we could get registration dealt with on the Saturday. Which meant that I could get a nice early night for the rather early start. Unfortunately Eurovision was on the television, which for some reason resulted in a late night!
Lance Ball BQA
On the plus side, we stayed in a hotel next door to a 24 hours McDonalds, so at least managed to get something hot and edible at 6am having decided that I needed something to warm me up before the swim. About 7am and it was the usual mad rush extracting the bike out of the boot, trying to put it all back together and get everything in to transition in some sort of order. 8:30am and we were off!
To my surprise, this year I didn’t spend the first 10 minutes feeling very cold and wondering why on earth I take part in this sport. On this occasion I instantly felt comfortable and got into my rhythm straight away. I’m used to bringing up the rear on the swim, so was pleased that I stayed amongst several competitors throughout. A hot breakfast must be the way forward.
Swim was completed in 30:44. A time that I was very pleased with. Slow compared to the fastest at just over 20 minutes, but much better than the 33:05 time of my previous year.
T1 was extremely slow. A split second decision was made to try and dry myself with a towel, plus put shoes, socks and a coat on for the kayak. Must remember to put elastic laces back in to the shoes, since wasted so long putting them on as they were laced up far too tight. T1 2:44 compared to the fastest at 30 seconds. I spent longer in T1 than getting a cooked breakfast!
Kayak went well. The river was a little calmer than last year and had very little flow. Completed in 55:19 which was 30 seconds slower than previous year. However, last year there were a lot more competitors which weren’t spaced out anywhere near as far from each other as this year. As a result, this year I couldn’t get anywhere near as many frequent drafts as I leap frogged from one competitor to another working my way up the field. Overall, I think I paddled a lot better this year.
The quickest set an amazing time of 38:29 for the kayak, quite a bit faster than even the second fastest at 44:17.
T2 was again very slow as I struggled to walk after losing the feeling in my legs from the kayak. The rain was just starting and I decided to put thermal gloves on in transition rather than doing so on the bike, as I’d probably fall off in the process. Must remember to get larger gloves out since they were so tight they were a right struggle to get on. T2 2:02 compared to the fastest at 28 seconds. Clearly I need to plan the transitions better!
As soon as the bike leg started the weather was horrible. At least I had a waterproof jacket and thermal gloves on. It couldn’t have been enjoyable for those just in lycra. The marshals were fantastic, remaining very enthusiastic and offering great support all around the course despite the conditions.
Bike time 1:11:41 which was nearly 4 minutes quicker than previous year. Very pleased with this time. Quickest bike of the day was 54:49.
T3 48 seconds compared to fastest of 42. At least one transition went o.k. especially fast since I decided to put fresh socks on, the previous pair having got drenched on the bike.
Run went great. The rain had stopped and the coat was discarded at long last. Felt strong all the way around and would happily have stayed out for a few more laps. Time 42:32 which was over 10 minutes quicker than previous year. Overall time 3:25:50 About 13 minutes quicker than previous year despite the rain, tougher kayak and dreadful transitions.
Lincsquad yet again put on a fantastic event. The marshals were amazing. Every one of them enthusiastically shouting support, even those posted out at the extremities of the course in the rain. This enthusiasm was shared by the competitors who shouted support and offered loads of encourage to fellow participants on the run. Lucozade was also a welcome new sponsor this year, so there were ample refreshments.
Having competed in several large running races recently, it was so nice to get back to an event where there wasn’t a single bottle, gel wrapper or piece of litter discarded anywhere. Instead of the dreaded mp3 players, the competitors were all friendly, acknowledged and encouraged each other throughout the race. I certainly plan to be back again next year, hopefully having improved my transitions.
Phil Holden, last years Vet 40 Trophy Series winner went up to Braemar, Scotland to do the Deeside Triathlon – Bike 35, Run 9.5 and Kayak 15miles (with grade 1 rapids). Thanks for your report Phil … certainly sounds challenging!
I had fun last weekend at the Deeside tri – thought you might be interested in a wee update!
Spending the week before walking in the Cairngorms (with even a hard won ski up Ben Macdui on 1 May) maybe wasn’t the best way to taper into this long event. Also, after a cold but bright week, the race day on Sunday brought steady rain all day, with temperatures of 2 degrees up to about 6 later and a stiff easterly headwind. I have never raced in so many clothes!
There were around 30 in the bike-run-bike duathlon, but only three entries in the bike-run-kayak Tri, of whom one didn’t show up, so just the two of us! I had the novelty of being first off in the one minute interval time trial start to the bike leg. With sweeping straights and a general downhill trend till the climb right at the end, the 35 mile ride from Braemar to Shooting Greens felt quite fast (till I later saw the impressive times others were doing). I started the 9.5 mile run still second on the course, but other speedy duathletes passed me running along the river to Crathes. A long transition followed here, with welcome dry clothes, and then it was into my trusty (but not hugely comfortable) old touring kayak for the fifteen miles down to Aberdeen. This took 2 hrs 47 mins, and I more or less lost feeling in my hands after about two minutes. A dozen or so grade 1 rapids spread along the leg added a dimension of route choice and a bit of technicality – a new experience with wing paddles in a long boat! At last the Bridge of Dee at Aberdeen came in sight, only to find that under this was the bumpiest wave on the whole paddle. One by one the five bridges in the city were passed and it was time to land at the Boat Club and attempt to stand up. Andrew Aitken, the other Tri paddler came in with Colin the kayak marshall not long after, and slightly better dressed for the weather in a full wetsuit.
What a great event, but a shame that more people didn’t take part. Hopefully it will carry on, and others will travel up and give it a go. Big thanks to the Fleet Feet team and all the marshalls who must have got nearly as cold and wet as the racers.
Hi Quadrathletes, I hope your all feeling motivated and ready for action. The Race Season is getting closer, so if your wanting some dates for your diary’s hears a reminder and an insight to our BQA Trophy Events for 2015!
RACE 1 – 24th May – Brigg Bomber Quad – National Championships/World Cup – A superb race to start the season, extremely well organized by our Top Quadrathlon Club ‘Lincsquad’ a fast flat and safe course, its the British National Championships and the first World Cup race too so lots of points! Just to top it off they have an excellent T- shirt Tour of the Brigg Pubs to celebrate … certainly not to be missed!!
RACE 2 – 21st June – South Yorkshire Quad –This race is hopefully going to host the British Championships in 2016, so its an ideal chance to learn the course and try the lake and its surrounding area out ….. check out this excellent Water Park its a lovely venue, and would be great if you can support this new race, organized by a very enthusiastic group of kayakers and triathletes.
RACE 3 – 12th July – Box End Sprint Quad – World Cup –A very well established and superbly organized by Quadrac racing, the whole event held within the Box End Waterpark. It’s ideal for youngsters, beginners as it’s a sprint distance and support crews can see the whole race from the lovely lake side café. It’s the first time it has been give World Cup Status so we need to give this race the backing it deserves. Excellent camping on site too …. And you can even try your hand at wake boarding!
RACE 4 – 6th September – Shrewsbury Sprint Quad-This race just keeps getting stronger and stronger, 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 … not to be missed!
RACE 5 – 13th September – Fabian 4 Mountain Tri –This race promises to be back with vengeance and it will certainly challenge that inner self! Superb scenery, tracks and trails brilliantly organized by very friendly like minded athletes, it will certainly boost your adrenalin and you’ll have an amazing sense of achievement when you cross that finish line ….. exit your comfort zone and enjoy!
RACE 6 – 19th September – Awesome Foursome Quad –This is one of our longest running etablished Quadrathlons, this race in Bude never ceases to amaze me, I have raced it in all weathers …. it is always a brilliant exciting and challenging race to end the season! Starting in the sea, there’s plenty of hills, a historic canal and amazing coastal views … 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!
I hope I have tempted you …. keep you eye on the events page as some race organizers may offer Early Bird Race discounts and BQA Member Discounts! Happy Training and Racing 2015 … and don’t forget your BQA 2015 membership, we would love your support again THANKS Jean Ashley
If your are looking to Race in Europe these are the World Cup Trophy Races
RACE 1- 2nd May – Ibiza, SpainEUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS MiddleDistance
Race 2 – 24th May – Brigg Bomber, GBWorld Cup Middle Distance
Race 3 – 30th May – Xtrial PernstejnCup, CZE World Cup Sprint Distance
Race 4 – 7th June – Wasserstadt, Hannover, GER WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS LONGDistance
Race 5 – 21st June – Tyn nad Vltavou, CZE World Cup Sprint Distance
Race 6 – 12th July – Box End, GBWorld Cup Sprint Distance
Race 7– 1st August Šamorín, SVKWORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS SprintDistance
Race 8 – 22nd August, Polskaman, POL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPSMiddleDistance
Race 9 – 30th August Balaton Sprint, HUN EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPSSprintDistance
Race 10 – 5th September, Quadrathlon Ratscher, GER World Cup Middle Distance
Quadrathlon4YOU is the news page for and by quadrathletes, where you can get involved: share your experiences, chat with others in the Forum, or let us know about new races
Despite the entries being low, (compared to the World Cup Race last year) there was certainly some great Racing at Box End Sprint Quad on Sunday 17th July. Our top GB Quadrathletes were out in force and over two thirds of the competitors were all BQA members all supporting this great race! Superb conditions warm with a slight breeze and excellent under foot and tyre for the cross bikes! Once again great organization and all within the Watersports Park, ideal for spectators …. You couldn’t wish a better way to spend a morning, dressed in Lycra, surrounded by the best crowd of like-minded athletes!
