The duathlon is a perfect event if you love both running and cycling, a good challenge and breaks up the monotony of constant running. One of our members – Gavin Speed – recently took part in the Darley Moor Duathlon (near to Ashbourne, Derbyshire). It took place at a motor racing circuit.
The sprint distance is nice and short so anyone with a good level of fitness (and a bike!) can partake. This duathlon consisted of a 5km run, followed immediately by a 18km bike, finished off with another 5km run. The run was two flat laps around the perimeter of the circuit on uneven ground consisting of gravel, grass, and a bit of mud. Transition and then the bike ride involved 8 laps on the track, this was particularly enjoyable as it was traffic free, flat (and fast on the beautiful smooth track).
There were some particularly ‘fast’ bikes on show along with some funny pointy aerodynamic helmets, these contrasted with a couple of competitors on mountain bikes, a good mixture of abilities and kit. After a second quickish transition, the final run (with slightly wobbly legs) consisted of another 2 laps to the finish line.
A nicely organised event by some really friendly people, a fairly small attendance (65), though it was only the second time the event has taken place. Great for spectators, my kids got to cheer me on 12 times during the multiple laps! Well worth doing as a change from the usual running only events, and good preparation for longer distances or triathlons, also the goody bag contained a tasty real ale beer!