Imagine this: a bustling coastal town, where the rhythm of waves matches the pulse of daily life. Tenby, a gem in Pembrokeshire, has been the heart of a unique event since 2010—the Long Course Weekend. This event isn't just any triathlon; it's billed as Europe’s largest multi-sport festival, where athletes swim, bike, and run various distances, with the elite pushing themselves to the max to claim the prestigious Long Course Weekend medal.
However, the very essence of this event that brings vibrancy and a surge of visitors also brings its challenges—specifically, the inconvenience of road closures. These closures, particularly during the cycling events, have sparked significant concerns among local residents and businesses. The current 112-mile cycling route, which sweeps through South Pembrokeshire including scenic spots like Wisemans Bridge and Saundersfoot, has been a particular point of contention. The disruption, felt most during a bustling Saturday each June or July, has led to a sense of communities being cut-off, impacting local trade and daily life.
Responding to these voiced concerns, Pembrokeshire County Council recently deliberated on a proposal to alter the triathlon's route. This new proposal aims to bypass the contentious areas, potentially reshaping the route to include a single loop that would stretch north up to eight miles from Cardigan. This adjustment is not just about alleviating local frustrations but also about transforming the logistical landscape of the event. By transitioning to an open-road format by 2025, the organizers, Activity Wales, hope to minimize disruptions to non-event traffic and reduce the logistical challenges of full road closures.
This proposed change is more than a logistical shift; it's a new vision for the Long Course Weekend. It promises to showcase more of Pembrokeshire’s stunning landscapes, potentially boosting tourism and benefiting broader parts of the county. The new route would take cyclists from Tenby to Pembroke, looping around Freshwater West, then on to Neyland via Pembroke Dock, and sweeping through picturesque locales like Broad Haven and Newgale, before making the return to Tenby.
As we look forward to the special meeting of the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee on January 10, where this proposal will be further discussed, it's clear that the Long Course Weekend is at a crossroads. The decision to alter its course could redefine the event, making it more harmonious with the needs of the local community while still preserving its status as a premier sporting festival. This is a story of adaptation and consideration, reflecting the dynamic spirit of both the event and the residents of Pembrokeshire.
What is the proposed new route for the Pembrokeshire Triathlon?
The proposed new route for the Pembrokeshire Triathlon could see cyclists ride as far north as Cardigan, bypassing contentious areas such as Wisemans Bridge and Saundersfoot. The new single-loop route will travel from Tenby to Pembroke, Neyland, Broad Haven, and other areas before returning to Tenby.
Why was the new triathlon route proposed?
The new route was proposed in response to local complaints about road closures affecting trade and daily activities. It aims to minimize disruption, address community concerns, and showcase more of Pembrokeshire's landscapes.
When will the proposed changes for the triathlon route be implemented?
The proposed changes, including transitioning to an open-road format, are being considered for implementation in 2025. A special committee meeting on January 10 will review the proposals before a final decision is made.
How can locals participate in the discussion about the triathlon route?
Locals can participate by attending the council meetings discussing the route changes or submitting feedback through official channels. Engagement is encouraged to fairly assess the impact and benefits of the proposed route.
#LocalEvents #CommunityEngagement
Source:
https://www.westerntelegraph.co.uk/news/24835930.long-course-weekend-proposed-new-route-near-cardigan/?ref=yahoo
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