Over 2,500 triathletes descended on Windsor this weekend as part of the Royal Windsor Triathlon, now in its 28^th year. An iconic event that draws triathlon royalty such as the likes of Stuart Hayes and Emma Pallant, Sunday 17^th June saw another exciting morning unfold.

Participants took to the water bright and early under sunny skies, before tackling a swim in the River Thames, and a bike course through the surrounding Berkshire countryside. The Sprint and Olympic distances both finished with a stunning run route on royal grounds, that passed Windsor Castle and headed along the spectacular Long Walk.

With the excitement in Windsor last month surrounding the Royal Wedding, hundreds of spectators were once again lining the streets and cheering on participants as they completed their challenge. Upon crossing the finish line, all triathletes received a bespoke medal designed by local Windsor College student Teihya-Mae Osborne and could return to the buzzing event village to celebrate their achievement.

The action-packed morning included some fantastic performances from both elites and newcomers alike. The first wave of the day, ‘Sprint with the Pros’ saw David Bishop taking the title in a speedy 59:12, ahead of Alexunda Chikin (59:25) and Stuart Hayes (59:46). Emma Pallant raced to victory amongst the females in a time of just 1:01:02, followed by Carol Bridge (1:05:19), and Michelle Dillon (1:06:41).

In the Olympic distance, the event was won by James Ellison in 2:09:03, a staggering five minutes ahead of second place Daniel Walsh (2:14:00) and Alistair Chappelle (2:14:50). On the women’s podium, Olivia Matthews (2:21:26) took the top spot, ahead of Charlotte Bowsher (2:23:02) and Becky Hoare (2:24:32).

Presented by the lady herself, the Jasmine Flatters Club Championship trophies were awarded to the triathlon clubs with the fastest average time, with Berkshire Tri Squad again taking both male and female titles.

As well as those out to try and claim a PB or a place on the podium, there were many others completing their first triathlon as part of the Macmillan Beginners Wave. Over 170 people took part in the Royal Windsor Triathlon to raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, the Official Charity of the Royal Windsor Triathlon. Their incredible efforts have so far raised over £49,000 and the charity are hoping to hit £60,000 in total.

Official Sports Nutrition Partner Optimum Nutrition were on hand to provide Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein shakes to all the triathletes and held guided stretches and recovery, led by Mind and Body Coach, Kim Ingleby. Riders were also delighted to receive a refreshing glass of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei, the perfect post-ride isotonic thirst quencher – pure liquid gold!

“Plenty has changed about this much-loved event since it started in 1991, but the one thing that remains the same every year is the incredible atmosphere,” says Nick Rusling, CEO Human Race. “The Royal Windsor Triathlon is such an iconic event, and from the participants motivating each other over the finish line to the spectators cheering on friends and loved ones, it truly is a special date in the triathlon calendar.”