Triathletes launch into action

TRIATHLETES from a new club showed their mettle by braving the elements in their inaugural race.

The competitors from Team Manvers, based at the Manvers Waterfront Boat Club at Wath, tackled a three-mile run, ten-mile bike ride and finished off with a one-and-a-half mile run around the lake on a cold and windy Saturday morning.

For many it was their first taste of the multi-event sport and a baptism of fire, showing why triathletes are a tough breed.

The first man back on the run was Mark Benton, with Darren Mountrey just ten seconds behind.

It was then onto the bike for a very windy and in some places hilly ten-mile ride.

As the section came to a close, Benton held on to his lead by only two seconds from fireman Jon Harworth, who made up a two-minute deficit.

The run, which took place on an undulating lap of the lake, produced an exciting climax with a sprint finish.

Benton just held off Harworth, with Mountrey third.

A Team Manvers spokesman said: "It was a tremendous effort from all of the triathletes."

* Team Manvers are now trying to develop the sport in the Dearne Valley area.

Anyone interested in duathlon/triathlon or just keeping fit is asked to contact Paul Bennington on 078999 06482 or call into Wath Leisure Centre on Sundays at 5pm or Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.15pm.