Tag: featured

Mark Pryor and his Quadrac Team, have finally folded up their company ‘Quadrac’. The Quadrathlon community will be sad the hear this, but the BQA and all our quadrathletes would like to thank them for all their hard work and races they have given us over the past 20 years, wish them all the very best in their ventures and hope they all continue enjoying their future sporting activities as much as we have enjoyed ourselves at Wadenhoe and Box End Quads in the past!

Our ‘Quadfather Eric Hatliff’ retired from organizing the Wadenhoe Quadrathlon Series down in Bedford in 2004. Mark Pryor, Richard Prion and Richard Beard, Lisa Webster, Mark Tinkler formed ‘Quadrac Racing’  and took over organizing the Summer race and the Winter Series. They then instigated the ‘Box End Quadrathlon’ which has been one of our main races in the Trophy Series for the last 15 years! Gillian Melia, Allan Davis, and Trevor (time keeping) also joined the team to make Box End a superbly organized event year in year out!

Many of us have great memories of this Tough off Road Sprint Quad, which over the years had World Cup Status, National Championship Status and more importantly supported all standards of athletes and also our ‘QuadKidz’ the stars of the future! One of the most memorable races was when Gold Medal Olympic C2 Kayak Athlete Etienne Stott came to race the Quad, he proved to be very good at swimming, biking and running too! He had time to join in the banter, and presented the prizes which made the day very special!  Mark Pryor’s claim to fame was he taught Etienne to Kayak at ‘Scouts’!

So thank you Quadrac for all those memories and for giving so much to our sport, we will always be thankful for those great events!

Quadrac Racing have closed the company and have very kindly donated £1000 to the BQA which we will invest back into our sport. They have also given us their large Feather Quadrac flags, the poles are in great condition so with some of the donated money the BQA have invested in some new feather flags to help promote our sport.

These have just arrived from ‘Northen Flags’ and look absolutely fabulous, we have 4 flags – ‘Swim, Kayak, Bike and Run’ and can be used at all our Quadrathlons. They are really eye catching and certainly help raise the profile and promote our sport ….. So watch out all race organizers I’ll be bringing them along to ‘Fly the BQA Flag at our events! So once again Big Thanks Quadrac …. all those years have been invested and the memories will live on!

A Big Thanks to ‘Shoreline Pursuits’, Simon and his Team, for putting on yet another Awesome Foursome race again! Special Thanks to the many Volunteers and to ‘Bude SLSC’ and their Local Lifeguards for their water safety cover who are crucial in helping run this great little event. A great effort by everyone with all the extra restrictions they have all had to overcome, in these challenging times! Having missed the event this year, BQA member’s  Nick Farnell and Pete Chappill have both kindly sent me their race reports … Big thanks to Nick and Pete, the BQA really I are always greatfull when we get some input from fellow members …it’s always good to have the support and views … THANKS!

Nick’s Report – We’ve enjoyed two brilliantly organised Quads, so far this season at Brigg and Shrewsbury. How would Bude measure up? Answer, no less than Awesome thanks to Simon Hammond (race organiser) and his team. We started off with grey clouds, but the sun quickly appeared along with the locals and holiday makers who showed a keen interest and were supportive of the event and cheered us all on, making for a great atmosphere.

The age distribution of the solo competitors this year showed a preponderance of men in the over 50s and 60s, but only one senior male namely, Michael Birchmore who went onto win the event. We had 2 senior women and one in the over 40s. 5 relays and 6 pairs joined the throng.

The swim start was in the sea, rough enough for the surfers to test their skills and judging by the flags and burgees , we had  a nice onshore breeze, The tide was well in and I suspect the proposed 800 m sea swim was a tad further. We raced out to sea through a boating channel which acted as a rip current and then hit the waves which helped us back into shore and then back out again for a second helping. The bike was exciting and armed with the all the aerodynamic accoutrements, a 70km/hour plus descent to Widemouth was easily manageable. Winding coastal roads and a 1 in 3 climb followed. The kayak section in the canal required vigilance with low headroom bridges, zig zagging pedalo craft, ducks and swimming dogs. The run took place over varied terrain and the views from the coastal footpath were spectacular.

Our solo senior male Michael Birchmore developed a commanding lead in the swim and continued to extend his lead throughout the next 3 disciplines posting an impressive overall time of 2 hours 41 mins and 13 seconds. Second overall was Nigel Unwin who was in true warrior mode and put in an impressive performance with another sub three hour time of 2 hours 56 mins, Sam Pantling came third in just over 3 hours and was first male over 40.

In the women, we had a battle Royal in the swim between Harriet Enoch and Rebecca Newson, both ladies had similar fast swims, but as the race unwound Harriet pulled ahead in the remaining disciplines and impressively posted the fasted kayak time of the day. Harriet, also managed a sub three hour time (2 hours 57). Rebecca came in second (3 hours 14) and Sally Crabb was third and the first over 40 forty female.

In the remainder of the age groups, as stated before , Nigel Unwin won the over 50s with Paul Cottle and Glyn Collen second and third respectively separated by less than a minute. In the over 60s, Nick Farnell was first with Peter Chappill second and Mini Fry third.

In the Pairs , Lee Sampson and Simon Hammond posted a winning time of 2 hours 53 and in the relays  the Fore Shore team won in 2 hours 50 . I was amused by Simon Hammond who although in race mode ,during the kayak leg had time to put his organisers hat on and ask the passing kayakers how the bike leg went.

With the competitors safely back in, we had the medal giving ceremony .The quality and quantity of the trophies awarded was impressive and appreciated . A great finish to the Quadrathlon season.

Bring on the 2022 Awesome foursome, Nick Farnell

Pete’s Report – Arriving in Bude is always a joy it feels like home. While preparing equipment for the 10 am start of the 2021 Quadrathlon it was drizzling but a comfortable temperature. Something new to focus the mind has been a theme this year. The transition was on the hotel side grass bank which is long and thin. Kayaks were laid next to the canal bikes rested against the fence or wall. This provided plenty of room for all the equipment. The benefits were clear.

Briefing time and the rain stopped the sun showed it’s face and smiled on the riotous participants. The swim start was in the same place but the tide was very high which meant only a short run on the beach to the turn flag in fact running in the water was the order of the day. The local lifeguard crew stated conditions were calm. Being one of those from the flat lands of Lincolnshire it looked like a heavy swell too me. The event set off watched by a very vocal crowd offering support. The serious racers were away.

Both laps completed out across the still flooded bridge up the steps and something new to focus on. Go straight across the lock gates and into the transition. The run into transition was about the same distance  but easier on the feet due to the grass. We collected our bikes for the on coming battle with Millook. Out of transition on the opposite side of the road bridge to normal no cobbles or dog walkers to negotiate and good visibility both ways for a safe entry into the traffic system. Slight head wind on the coastal road allowed a steady transition into bike mode. Riders attacked the steeper parts in their own way. Some wear trainers and run up. Some remain attached to the bike but getting the job done is the aim. Onto the road home with long sweeping descents allows time for hydration. Weather still kind.

Transition in was the same as the out, propping up the bike out the way then lowering the kayak into the canal. Two choices here climb into water which was about 60cms deep then climb into kayak or step down into kayak. All headed to the sea lock gates around the buoy then head towards the narrow turn. The participants waiting for each to turn as for some it is a 10 point turn. The usual two laps then into transition. Climb out the kayak or in my case roll out. lifting it onto grass. Running shoes on and out the transition across the road and onto the usual run route. The sun was shining the views from the coastal path as breath taking as ever helping with fatigue and inspired effort to the finish. Coastal erosion meant that the new pathway was not as worn and softer under foot. The finish line was in the usual place and had the usual loud welcome.

Total Respect to Lincsquads ‘Andrew Lawson’ who set off at 03.30am travelling over 300 miles arriving at the start to complete his first ever sea swim event.

Another event completed by all in what has been a short series. Those that completed the three events felt lucky and thought of those who could not for various reasons.  We wish you all well for 2022. A massive thanks to all involved in organising and marshaling these events. 2021 has seen some enforced new approaches to the events but the core principle of friendly participation has not changed thanks to the BQA committee and members.

See you next Season Pete Chappill 

Congratulations to our Winners and to our BQA Members

Male
1st Mike Birchmore Senior 2.41.13 
2nd Nigel Unwin Vet 50 BQA 2.56.42
3rd Sam Pantling Vet 40 3.02.12

Female
1st Harriet Enoch Senior 2.57.38
2nd Rebecca Newson Senior 3.14.58
3rd Sally Crabb Vet 40 3.40.32

1st Team ‘Foreshore’ 2.50.04
1st Pair Lee Sampson & Simon Hammond 2.53.30

BQA Members
9th Nicholas Farnell Vet 60 3.13.47
12th Pete Chappill Vet 60 3.31.35
16th John Kavanagh Vet 60 3.46.48
18th Andrew Lawson Vet 60 3.53.18

Also well done to our other BQA Member Helen Adams in a 4 man Team, and to Helen Recchia who competed in a Pairs Team.

Full Results 2021 Bude Quadrathlon Results

Final Trophy Results to Follow

September 12th should of been our National Championships the final Quad of the season in the lovely seaside town of Bude …. its always a great end to our Quad Season, spectacular views, a challenging course, our wonderful Simon Hammond and his team, and not forgetting those awesome Cornish Cream Teas! 

Many of us did ‘Yet Another virtual one’ and some were lucky enough to be spending ‘holiday time’ there … I do know for the ‘Chappills’ it was the thought of the Cream Teas along with the Millock Hill that took them back for a September Break! They enjoyed the Quad course and rumor has it they even did the bike course twice (though not on the same day!) 

This is Pete’s Report! ‘Repli-quad event 4 Bude-ifull’ Pete, Donna and Jeff Chappill

Due to the current covid situation a decision was made to have this event on Thursday. It was nothing to do with the best day weather wise with the lightest winds, honest governor! The weekends in Bude have been busy with people in the usual transition area by the canal, so the order of disciplines was adjusted to minimise the time spent in the area.

We were staying at a site on the bike and run course so drove down to Bude to catch the tide coming in. This was Donna’s first sea swim for many years and the sea had been kind with no waves and a small swell. The usual 2 laps were completed. Transition into the kayak as usual completing the normal course. Dodging the pedellos and rowing boats slowed things a little but being able to use the weed free centre channel made the time up. Transition out the kayak saw us driving back to the campsite.

Change to the bike and off with Donna and Jeff to battle with Millock. 

There was a lot of traffic on the roads so progress downhill was sedate. Progress up the hill was also sedate but completed. The wind was increasing a little for the ride back but the sweeping downhill allowed good progress.

Into the site for transition to the run. Jeff and I joined the route into Bude as usual. Donna famous for add-libbing decided to run the coast path.

It was warm and as hard as ever. I missed the drink stations and marshals. I don’t normally see many other people on the run but it felt strange.

So course completed tee shirt tour to attend and relax.

Hopefully see you all in 2021…. Pete

‘Sprinkling the Fairy Dust’ – It’s been great company to have Lance Ball along side in all 5 of this years Virtual Quads, I certainly think this was one of the calmest and warmest a fitting tribute to Bude! Perfect conditions here in Chester on the River Dee warm calm and sunny… certainly ideal for our 4 disciplines, transition area was a bit tight in the backs of our cars but it was good to be out there and reminiscing about Bude Races gone by!

So not quite the way the Quad Season should of ended in Bude with National Trophy presentations and Simon’s Banter … but a big thank-you to those of you that did 1 or 4 of the Quad disciplines today we were there in spirit, lets hope its the real thing in 2021!  Jean #motivationalmileswithsmiles

A note from ‘John Durrant’

Today would have been the Awesome Foursome in Bude – honestly my favourite event of the year and has been a regular pilgrimage for my wife and I – we’ve even considered moving to Bude as we’ve always enjoyed the feel of the place…

This year I’ve set my own little mini-event for my 50th birthday on Thursday which will be a swim in the Thames, followed by 1,000 Burpees (with push-up and a jump), and hopefully an evening kayak down the River Wey to have some food in the Pyford Anchor pub with the family, although they’re currently closed due to a Covid case in the pub…

What a strange and lonely year this has been – so I guess it calls for strange little physical challenges like this to keep sane…! 

Other Quadrathletes that sent me news were Helen Recchia and Paul also on holiday in Bude reviewing and testing the hilly bike course, ready for next year!

David Jones and his Quad Friends at Manvers Lake doing there motivational multi session swim kayak and a run in and around the lake!  If any one is near Manvers sessions like this go on most Sundays!

Well Done to you all and thank-you for sharing your Quadrathlon Passion!

Pete Chappill from Lincsquad finished his season with the Re-scheduled Box End Quad, well done to him for completing all 5 Virtual BQA Quadrathlons, along with Lance Ball and Jean Ashley, lets hope we will bet out there for real next season!

Pete’s Report  Boxenderventure

So today 6th September should of been the wonderful Shrewsbury Sprint Quadrathlon, unfortunately like all our Quadrathlons this season sadly Covid cancelled. However not to be disheartened and as always #makingthemost members of the BQA got their Quadrathlon Heads on, and did their own virtual quadrathlons! 

Jean and Lance took to the water in Chester and completed a long version of the Sprint quad including an extended kayak and bike, the weather was beautiful and it brought back many memories of all those fantastic races organized by SYTri … we gave it our best shot and we can’t wait to be back in September 2021!

Meanwhile Pete Chappill from Lincsquad was actually in Shrewsbury for the weekend this was his 3rd Repli-quad event of the season ‘The famous Shrews-bearly’ this is Pete’s wonderful race report! 

The start and finish for this event were at Wingfield caravan park in Montford Bridge close to Shrewsbury and right on the river bank.
The river was swollen and flowing fast so for the 500m swim I tasted what a decent swimmer feels like finishing in around 6 minutes. Had it been against the flow I would still be there.
The kayak leg was out against the flow and provided some wobbly moments at the turn. The return leg was 2 mins quicker and a lot easier.
Onto the bike and out towards the monument junction on the actual Quad course. This section was a lot more undulating than the section from the showground. Turning left placed me on the actual route up to the turn and back to the monument. The return to the site was again undulating with a variable wind direction and about 16 degrees of warmth.
The run had to be limited for me as it was the first since an injury 7 weeks ago. 10 minutes out and 10 minutes back proved to be a good test for gait maintenance and a good sign for the next event in a weeks time, the Bude-ifull.
The usual screaming crowd was at the finish. However numbers were limited to one in order to remain covid safe.
All though these events are not the same with people passing me spurring me on it does act as a normalisation in these frustrating times! Fantastic effort Pete … we look forward to the Bude-ifull Report next weekend!

As always Pete is very passionate about the ‘The tee shirt tour’ so full marks for his one -off original race Tech-TShirt, and at this rate Pete you must be on for a Trophy Prize!!

I hope all our Quadrathlon friends are keeping fit and motivated, its been a crazy year and I’m certainly missing our friendly banter and smiling faces! One Virtual Race Left … ‘The Awesome Foursome’ …..please post a photo on our facebook page if your out and about next weekend and raise a glass on your own T-shirt Tour to our Wonderful Sport!  Love from Your Fairy Quadmother XX

Covid-19 Replic-Quad Series Round 2 ….the avid followers of Quadrathlon will know that round 1 was the Adventure Bomber.

So Lincsquaders were out in action on Sunday 14^th June, it was the turn of the Dearne Valley event which was covid cancelled.  In the spirit of the sport and adhering to the latest guidelines Kev Lovett, Donna, Jeff, and Pete Chappill commenced a similar distance course at a local venue.

At 08.30 the Dearnish Valley Quadrathlon set off with the 800m swim, (The tape measure got wet and snapped part way around so estimated distance). The weather was kind with a light breeze from the east. The transition was on a small piece of grass and had a long run out with the bike onto a 2 laps “P” shaped technical course with “s” bends and climbs. Kev had ridden the course in the week and blamed a chill on the fact that his wife beat him. Jeff and Donna utilised their ability to have no social distancing with Jeff drafting and changed the direction of the second lap as it was more scenic. Once again I complied with the rules and let Kev make some space up front.

The transition was back to the grass having to carry the bike through the gate. To simulate Dearne it was a deep water start in the kayak. This allowed Donna the opportunity to practice her high brace.5 “ish” laps around the perimeter of the lake made the 4kms route. The shapely course, plenty of turns and cross winds made for some interesting moments as did the deep water exit.

The run course which was a square and undulating one with 2 laps around the surrounding estate followed by a lap of honour around the lake.

That’s the second event of this series completed with the prospect of at least two local age group champions. Thanks go to Dawn, Tracy, and Ben for transition security and ensuring that social distancing was maintained.

The next event should have been Box End which has been rescheduled to September! We will schedule a Repli-Quad in July to try and keep some normality to this year’s calendar and there are valuable points for the local age group championships! ….. Thanks to Pete Chappill for his great report!

Meanwhile over in Chester Lance Ball and Jean Ashley were replicating Dearne Valley, thinking of Mark Benton and all at Manvers Lake we took to the River Dee to keep sharing our Quad Passion, and doing our own ‘Social distancing Quad’.

Perfect conditions as we started our swim in the River Dee at 9.30am this morning, though slightly cooler than expected due to a heavy thunderstorm the day before! 24 miles #swimkayakbikerun from start to finish around similar distance to Dearne Valley (though I probably made the Kayak leg slightly longer just because the river was so calm and I love that bit the best!! ) Once again we were using our separate cars as our transition areas, a bit of a squash and its a good job we weren’t timing our transitions! We had a very fast out and back bike, followed by our steady run , not quite race pace as we did have enough breath to keep chatting!  We made up our own ‘Banter’ – not quite the same as Mark‘s commentary and the cheering from the Manvers Team, but we got out there and smashed all 4 disciplines!

Other BQA Members were out at Manvers Lake, well done to Bob Mawson, Dave and Caz Jones also flying the BQA flag!

Sending Love to all our Quadrathlon Buddies, and especially thinking of ‘The Manvers Team’ 💜 #makingthemost