It goes without saying that McA Fitness & Events host the best multisport events in the country, if not the world 😉
This is evidenced by the fact we’ve just won North West Regions GO TRI Initiative of the Year 2022 for the Dunham Massey GO TRI Duathlon and in 2019 (the last time there was a GO TRI category) we also won the North West Region and placed second nationally.
Joking and gloating aside, our GO TRI events are very popular and this year, we’ve introduced a slightly longer Sprint distance at each of our venues to offer progression or a longer, race day training session.
But what about other events, other distances and even disciplines? As cool as duathlon is, there are other options for your endurance needs, so I’ve compiled my top 5 for 2022.
Wilmslow & South Manchester Triathlon 24/04 & 11/09
Wilmslow is a cracking event, always busy and competitive, but fun, friendly, safe and welcoming. Organised by our friends at Stu Web and OP Events, Wilmslow was actually the inspiration for the Manchester Airport Duathlon.
This year, they are offering the usual Sprint distance, with a 400m pool swim, 24km bike and a 6.3km run. The ride will take you through Wilmslow, Ashley and Mobberley while on the run, you’ll run through the leafy streets of Wilmslow. As well as the Sprint, they’re also offering the Double Sprint (simply double your distances), an Aquathlon (Swim/Run) and Aquabike (Swim/Bike).
A great event fir all abilities, this was the first triathlon I completed and even if I’m not racing, I try to be there every year to support.
Poynton 10km – 3rd April
Poynton 10km is again directed by friends. Crazy Legs Events (you may have seen them at our Sprint distances, they do our timing).
Poynton is again a very friendly event. As with all running events, you’ll get a good mix of abilities, from the speed monsters to first timers. Bill and co are a friendly bunch who will support where needed.
The course starts at Poynton Civic centre and is undulating with various off road sections. Its an event with a bit of everything and is definitely not a dull multilap course, but isn’t necessarily a PB potential.
Another event I have “raced” myself (loosely put it) and one I plan on having a crack at again this year!
Abersoch Triple Crown – 29th May, 18th June & 22nd October
The Abersoch Triple Crown is an event I’ve been trying to do for 3 years… it’s the location that’s got me hooked, sea swim, beach side and plenty of bars and restaurants for “recovery” 😉 thanks to lockdowns and jubilees, I’ve deferred my entry until 2023.
The triple Crown consists of 3 races, the 10km, the Sprint or Standard distance Triathlon and the Half Marathon (my favourite distance). To complete the Triple Crown, you do all 3, but you can also enter each one individually.
I’ve already said the swim is in the sea, not everybody’s cup of tea, but an experience I’m really looking forward to. The bike of the Triathlon is a lapped course, which is described as undulating with plenty of long, fast sections and the run is sand and track before hitting the roads. The 10km and Half Marathon, again both starts close to the harbour and as with all north Wales roads will undulate somewhat.
Organised by the Sensation Group, I cannot wait to get stuck into this one next year.
Chester Marathon – 2nd October
Chester Marathon, well what ca I say… there is some unfinished business here…
If you followed my journey last year, you’ll know that this was my first (I won’t say and last) marathon. It’s definitely not as flat or fast as Manchester would be and its far quieter than London, but both reasons to drive down the M56 to give it a go.
Race HQ is at the Racecourse where you run into the city, past all the landmarks and out into some of Cheshire’s finest Welsh countryside. It was a great event in 2021, very friendly, well organised and excellent communication. There were drink stations every 3-4 miles with water and gels available. Every finished got a medal (did you even race if you didn’t get a medal), a goody bag and a technical top.
Roads are all closed to traffic, so very safe, well marshalled and incredible value for money compared to other marathons in the UK.
Well worth a visit for your first or 15th marathon!
Outlaw Series – Various venues and dates
I haven’t yet ventured into the world of middle and long distance triathlon, but if I was going to, id definitely have a look at an Outlaw event.
Each one is situated in epic countryside at Nottingham, Woburn, Holkham, Bowood and Thorsby Park and Outlaw offers both middle distance, 70.3, and full distance, 140.6 (don’t mention the I word though)
Entry is very reasonably priced, particularly compared to other long distance brands and you’ll get online support ahead of your race, technical top and medal, post race massage and a post race meal. I have never done or even been to one myself, but I know many people who have and they all thoroughly recommend Outlaw. I know of a few McA regulars who are having a crack at upping the distance in 2022 and Triathlon Dan and Harry Palmer (2 of my famous friends) are both huge supporters.
Finally, it gores without saying that McA Fitness and Events bring the best duathlon, but we know full well that you may want more than that and so are totally happy to support other local and national organisers bringing the best out of multisport. All our events in 2022 have been strategically scheduled to ensure we don’t clash with these events and other local races as well as to give you the opportunity to get some last minute training in with us before your big race!
Our GO TRI’s and Sprints are perfect for fine tuning, managing nerves, testing kit or nutrition or just having a fun blast out with likeminded people.
What’s your favourite McA Event and wats your favourite other event? Let me know and I’ll check them out this year too!!
