Sporting event saved

The annual sporting event began 25 years ago but had to be cancelled last year when Shropshire Council pulled out of the event because of local authority cutbacks.

Now the Cheshire based company, UK Triathlon, has taken over the running of the event, bringing in new distances for those competiting.

The event was the brainchild of the Sport and Recreation Service of Shropshire

Council and until 2016 was run by a local organising committee involving volunteers and organisations from the local community.

Alan Rowen, spokesman for the that committee, who said: “They are a local company with a big reputation and organise many events throughout the year. All the changes should make it more enjoyable than ever for the

spectators, and I am really looking forward to hearing spectator feedback.”

Whether competing for charity, a personal challenge, team camaraderie or a personal best the event will see hundreds of people of all ages and abilities, swim, cycle and run to medal glory.

Zoe Steenson for UK Triathlon said: The event continues to offer the sprint and Olympic distances as in previous years but will also have the added benefit

of fun and middle distances, meaning there is something for everyone from as little as a 200 metre swim, 24 kilometre cycle and 2.5 kilometre run up to a 2 kilometre swim, 90 kilometre bike ride and 21 kilometre run.

"There is only one road closure this year and that is Swan Hill from 9am to 3.30pm. Advance warning signs have been put up advising of this as well as caution cycle event signs advising

of cyclists on the roads between 7am and 1pm.

“We are hugely proud to have been chosen to bring this much loved and well-established triathlon back and look forward to doing our best in 2018 to make this a fantastic event and continue with its success for all to enjoy.

"We have had some fantastic support from Shropshire Council as well as the people who were part of the original set up. Not only that, it’s great to see local charity clubs getting involved to marshal and the local secondary school, Lakelands, is helping with parking. There is a real buzz around the local community which want this race back and we look forward to working with and supporting those involved.

Zoe said UK Triathlon’s ethos is all about promoting healthy lifestyles and encouraging all abilities and ages to exercise.

"With the addition of new distances, making the event accessible to a wider audience, we have encouraged families and clubs within the local community to take part as well as those from further afield."