THIS weekend the Mazda London Triathlon takes part in what will be the 2012 Olympic city. It promises a record number of competitors – some 14,500 – who will compete at various levels of fitness in the swim-bike-run event.
Apart from the elite triathletes, F1’s Jenson Button will be tackling the Olympic distance race along the Westminster route. He’s taking on 18 year old MotoGP rider Bradley Smith, who challenged Button after the 2009 Formula 1 Championship leader’s fellow F1 driver, Lewis Hamilton, withdrew from Button’s original triathlon challenge.
Apparently Button is something of a triathlon fan: “I have been taking part in triathlons over the past couple of years as a way of keeping fit for my racing,” said Button. “This year I am aiming to finish in the top 10% of the London Triathlon, so no pressure!”
A little less glamorous, certainly less fit and definitely not so wealthy as Mr Button will be yours truly. I will also be competing in the Olympic distance event – my first at this distance. I am, shall we say, a little nervous about it!
If you do come to the event, there’s a chance to win entry into the stunning Garmin Barcelona Triathlon in Spain’s Catalonia region. The winner of the Mazda-sponsored prize will also get flights and two night’s accommodation in the four-star Barcelona Princess Hotel.
Look for the the Mazda Suite, located near the finish line to pick up an entry form.
The Garmin Barcelona Triathlon takes place on Sunday 18 October at La Mar Bella stadium. The race starts on Mar Bella beach for the sea swim, followed by a bike route that captures the city’s impressive monuments and architecture, and finally a coastal run that finishes back at the beach. It sounds fantastic.
And will probably have better weather than that promised this weekend. Wish me luck!
Swim-bike-run event this weekend
