In a display of grit and determination, four athletes from the Wight Tri Club recently left their mark at the renowned Eton Dorney Lake, a venue celebrated for its Olympic history and challenging triathlon courses. The Isle of Wight representatives faced stiff competition and demanding conditions, yet emerged with commendable results that underscore the burgeoning triathlon scene on the island.

A Test of Endurance at an Olympic Site

On a brisk morning of May 25, Jan Fletcher, Helen Scholes, Laura Curwood, and Nick Curwood made their way to the iconic Eton Dorney Lake near Windsor. This venue, steeped in sporting history due to its role in the 2012 London Olympics, set the stage for a day of intense multisport challenges across various distances and formats.

Each athlete, having dedicated months to rigorous training, was ready to put their endurance and skills to the test in the swim-bike-run segments of the triathlon.

Laura Curwood: A Sprint to Success

Laura Curwood opted for the Super Sprint distance, a rapid-fire challenge consisting of a 400m swim, a 10km bike ride, and a 2.5km run. Competing against a field of 41 robust athletes, Laura showcased her prowess by clinching the 11th spot with a stellar time of 45 minutes and 50 seconds. Her performance not only highlighted her athletic discipline but also positioned her as a formidable contender in the triathlon community.

Resilience in Sprint: Jan and Helen's Journey

Both Jan Fletcher and Helen Scholes entered the sprint distance race, fresh off their participation in the Nottingham Outlaw Spring Tri just a week prior—a testament to their extraordinary resilience and recovery skills. Their race included a 750m swim, a 20km bike leg, and a 5km concluding run.

Jan Fletcher, in particular, excelled by finishing the course in 1 hour, 15 minutes, and 19 seconds, securing the 5th place in her age category and 31st overall among 131 female competitors. Although she narrowly missed automatic qualification for the World Championships in Pontevedra, her sights are firmly set on the upcoming trials at Blenheim Palace.

Helen, despite challenges in the swim and missing a strategic bike pack, persevered to finish in 1 hour, 24 minutes, and 3 seconds, earning 8th place in her category. Her resolve remains strong as she too aims for the World Championships.

Draft-Legal Expertise: Nick Curwood's Experience

Nick Curwood took on the sprint-age qualifiers, gaining invaluable experience in draft-legal racing. This format, which mimics professional cycling dynamics by allowing close riding for aerodynamic benefits, was a new and enriching challenge for him. Nick completed the race in 1 hour, 17 minutes, and 44 seconds, a commendable effort that showcases his evolving skill set in triathlon racing.

A Foundation for Future Triumphs

The remarkable performances at Eton Dorney Lake are a testament to the dedication and skill within the Wight Tri Club. Competing at such a high-profile venue against elite athletes provides invaluable experience that enhances both individual and club capabilities.

As Jan and Helen gear up for their next qualification events, and as all four athletes continue to represent the Isle of Wight in national competitions, the spirit of triathlon burns brighter than ever on the island.

Embracing the Triathlon Challenge

For those inspired by these athletes, triathlon offers a comprehensive fitness challenge that enhances cardiovascular health, builds strength, and tests mental toughness. The Wight Tri Club remains a beacon for aspiring triathletes, offering guidance, training, and a supportive community for all skill levels.