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Countdown to Stockton Duathlon Festival 2016

Screen Shot 2016-03-30 at 13.05.01BUDDING athletes of all abilities are being reminded that the clock is counting down to sign up in time to take part in this year’s Stockton Duathlon Festival.

More than 600 people have already signed up for the various races taking place on Sunday 24 April at Stockton Riverside.

The popular run-ride-run format of the races offers participants the opportunity to pit themselves against other athletes or to simply complete their chosen distance as a personal fitness goal.

Sheree Lyons, a member of Sedgefield Harriers, is a regular participant in the Stockton Duathlon Festival who entered as a newcomer to the race format.

Sheree said: “It’s a great way to meet people who love the camaraderie of an organised race. Even the elite athletes come and give you a word of encouragement.

“The whole day is just so much fun and a great way to encourage people to participate in multisport events.

“This is my third year in the Duathlon and I have progressed over those years, taking part in the Novice distance for the last two years – knocking six minutes off my time last year! I felt it was time to admit I am no longer a novice and have entered the Sprint distance this year.”

Councillor Norma Wilburn, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, said: “Taking part in the Stockton Duathlon Festival is a superb way to enjoy being active with the races set against the beautiful backdrop of the River Tees.

“This event seems to be increasingly popular year on year and with three different types of race to choose from there really is a race on offer to suit everyone’s aims and ability.

“The Stockton Duathlon Festival will also be another fantastic sporting event in the Borough as we approach Stockton Cycling Festival hosting the British Cycling National Road Championships in June.”

The Stockton Duathlon is run over three race distances:

  • Novice – 2k run, 10k cycle, 1k run
  • Sprint – 5k run, 20k cycle, 2.5k run
  • Standard – 10k run, 40k cycle, 5k run

In the Standard race, there are cash prizes on offer for first place (£500), second place (£300) and third place (£200). The prizes are available in both male and female categories.

The 2016 Standard distance event will also play host to the Triathlon England National Duathlon Championships – however, all participants will need to be members of Triathlon England to be eligible for the National Championships.

Any interested individuals are being encouraged to sign up before the deadline on Sunday 17 April.

For more information and to register your place, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon 

By admin