Neath Valley Triathlon, 22 September 2009

Report by Peter Munn

I guess we did not have the best of tapering for this event having had THE momentous day 2 weeks prior. Training consisted of just one cycling jolly around Devon with a diner stop, 2 tea stops and 3 Mr. Whippy stops, and that was only in the first 2 hours. Much eating and drinking was partaken. So that’s the excuses out of the way.

We also did have to get up at 5.30 to get to registration on time. 120 people had registered for this event and hats off to Celtic Tri, this event just could not be faulted. An excellent location with a good feel to the event it featured 120 racers although there were a few dns’s it featured a lot of novices and I would highly recommend it as a tri to cut your teeth on. There were also a hell of a lot of women taking part, all ages and abilities.

It started with a 400 metre pool swim with a rarity occurring. We were nearly in the last few waves, surely there must be a mistake but no, Karen went off with the 8 minute people with myself shortly after.

We were both in the same lane and had the misfortune of swimming 2 extra lengths. Our counters were messing about and I know you have to count yourself but I got confused with my 10 and 12’s. I used to be the same when going out for a beer telling Karen I would probably be home by 10.

Anyway it was a short run to transition and out onto a mildly undulating bike. It was a lovely day with little wind and I even thought I was going fast at one stage. 22 km later and after a decent transition it was off on the 3 km run. It was here I remembered why it was 15 months since my last triathlon as it was tough going on a very scenic course.

The finish loomed and it was rather pleasant to be finishing with my sweetie waiting with an energy drink. I don’t know what she was thinking of but I told her to forget about it for at least 96 hours, I’d have to carb up obviously.

Karen had a good race coming in 4th overall lady, our only gripe being prizes for the first 3 male and female finishers. A bit stingy we thought. I was an also ran.

I would highly recommend this race, it was well run,  had a good feel, good course, good set up and goodie bag with a wide range of abilities. Timing chips too. Well done Celtic Tri who must have a large membership as there were loads of helpers too.

Results