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More than 100 athletes gathered at the University's Lakeside Campus at the weekend for the Worcester Triathlon Clubs" annual triathlon.

It was the first major event to take place at the site, since the ¹ú²úÊÓƵ acquired the former Top Barn Activity Centre earlier this year.

The triathlon took place on Sunday, 15th May, when over 100 competitors tackled a 1,500 metre open water swim in the freshwater lake at the site, a 60km bike ride around local scenic country lanes and a 10km off road run back at Lakeside.

Both experienced triathletes and complete novices competed in the event. George Kirkman was first male home in a time of 2:46, with only a few minutes separating the top finishers. Jenny Latham was the first female finisher in a time of 2:58. Philip Jenkins and Rebecca Comins won the V40 male and female categories; Pat Kinch of Churnet Valley Triathlon Club and Annette Edwards of Stafford Triathlon Club won the V50 category. Birmingham Running and Triathlon Club (BRAT) won the team prize.

¹ú²úÊÓƵ grounds staff and contractors worked hard to ensure the recently acquired facility was ready for the big day.

Dr Susie Hart, Director of Sport Partnership and Community Engagement at the University, said: ""In just 15 weeks, the University has begun to transform the site, bringing the main lake under operational management, extracting 90 boat-loads of weed in the process. Additional work includes groundwork preparation to create a 2.5km run loop around the site perimeter, and installation of new alarms, coupled with a complete overhaul of the activity centre electrics, water supply and boilers. In addition, new boundary fencing has been constructed
and a woodland area for school bush craft engagement is currently under construction.

"Community engagement is already underway, with Worcestershire Scouts, Kidderminster College, Nunnery Wood FC, Teme Valley Triathlon Club and Worcester Triathlon Club already training at the site on a weekly basis. They are the first of many'community groups visiting and engaging in activities at the Lakeside Campus."