Tri-Henley Success

Over 180 young people took part in the Tri Henley, Junior Open Water Triathlon at Shiplake College on 2 June 2019. The competitors ranged in age from 8 to 16 years and took part in an open water swim in the River Thames, followed by a grass bike and run.

Throughout the morning, the different age categories started in waves. The oldest group swam 400m, cycled 7km and ran 2.4km with the youngest children swimming 50m, cycling 1km and running 600m. There were different abilities of triathletes taking part, from experienced triathletes to several who had never done a triathlon before.

Some of the older competitors who competed in the early events adapted to helping adult volunteers run the events for the younger children.

Joanne Humphrey, mother of triathlete and volunteer commented: “We were really proud of all our members for the way they both competed and worked to make the event a success.

“Our race director is Sarah Doyle who lives in Shiplake village. There is a committee of people working with her but Sarah is the driving force and the event would not have happened without her. There was a team of around 30 volunteers, mainly parents from the club, who also made the event possible. And we are of course grateful for the generous support of Shiplake College and Shiplake Farm.”

There were a few pupils from the College who are members of Tri-Henley, who took part in the event; A Hunt, who won the ‘Youth’ category, F Fox, who placed 10th in ‘Youth’ category as well as L Byca and J Perry who also competed.

Joanne Humphrey also added: “With the majority of triathletes coming from around the area, it was good to find out that the event had spread further, with one competitor coming from the Isle of Wight!

The event was incredibly successful, with positive feedback from those who attended. Attendees commented on the excellent organisation, friendly and helpful marshals and stunning College grounds.

Shiplake College is looking forward to hosting the event again next year.