Momentum being built up by the Blackwater Triathlon in Fermoy over the last 6 years shows no sign of abating. On Saturday last, competitors from across the globe tested their skill and stamina against a course that comprised a 750 metre swim, a 20km cycle and culminated in a 6km run. For the first time, there was an alternative/shorter event for less experienced participants.

Trevor Woods (Cork Triathlon Club), who was victorious in Fermoy 12 months ago, retained his title and in the process underlined his reputation as one of Ireland's top triathlon exponents - Marie-Triona Keane from Dublin was the first woman home. For these elite athletes, the Blackwater Triathlon was an opportunity to better their personal best time (PB's) and hopefully move up another notch or two in the national pecking order of merit. However, for the vast bulk of swimmers/cyclists and runners it was about completing the course and the satisfaction that follows from that significant achievement.

TESTING COURSE

As is the norm, this event (which is sponsored by The Edge Sports Shop in Cork City) was meticulously organised with nothing left to chance. Very welcome assistance was provided by a variety of agencies and this, allied to the input of Blackwater Triathlon Club volunteers, ensured an incident free afternoon. The public played their part by urging on runners and there was additional support for competitors in the shape of family and friends when they passed the finish line in Fermoy Town Park.

Extremely popular with home grown 'iron men and women', the Blackwater Triathlon is also striking a chord with those from further afield and among those registered were participants from the UK, USA, France, Germany, South Africa, China, Holland and most intriguingly of all - Afghanistan. To a man and woman, they endorsed the Blackwater Triathlon as being on a par with some of the very best courses.

The sponsors, who are so crucial to the ongoing success of Blackwater Triathlon, included: The Edge Sports Shop, Herlihy's Centra, Fermoy; Fermoy Credit Union, Riordan's SuperValu, Fermoy; Amber Service Station, Fermoy; Mellerick's Pharmacy, Fermoy; Blackwater Motors, Fermoy; Kinetica Sports Nutrition; O'Dwyer Construction, D&M Fruit & Veg, Fermoy and Lagan Construction.

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