The 2nd South Manchester Triathlon took place in Wilmslow on Sunday, 22nd September, in spring-like weather conditions and saw a total of 516 triathletes cross the finish line.
A pool based sprint distance triathlon aimed at both novices and experienced triathletes, the South Manchester Triathlon was also the last event of the Xtra Mile Events Tri Sprint Series.
Based at the Wilmslow Leisure Centre, the 400m swim took place in the indoor pool whilst the bike leg covered a distance of 24.2 km around Wilmslow and the scenic Cheshire plains. The race finished with a mostly flat 6.2 km run along Wilmslow's quiet, leafy roads taking in views of the River Bollin.
Alex Foster (Astley & Tyldesley Road Runners) was the fastest in the water and managed to hold on to his lead throughout the race, claiming the winning title in a time of 01:09:57. James Bailey (Sale Harriers) bettered his third place from last year and came second in 1:10:14, beating Mark Clair into third place.
Louisa Hodge, in her first ever triathlon, took the women's title after crossing the finish line in 01:25:52, ahead of Lucy Scott (Knutsford Triathlon Club) who finished in 01:28:26. Abi Cockedge, also of Knutsford Triathlon Club, secured 3rd place in a time of 01:29:09 with a finish line sprint.
Race Director Simon Hill commented: "The 2nd South Manchester Triathlon was a sell-out race, with all 600 places snapped up by triathletes of all ages and all levels keen on finishing their season on a high. This event has got huge potential for growth and the Wilmslow Leisure Centre is a great venue with fantastic facilities."
Photo: Winner Alex Foster, credit eventphoto.co.uk.
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But of course in true Wilmslow style, we didn't crowd him and were all very blasé about him being in his trunks ....