Loughrea Triathlon – Gallery
Youth Series:
The Loughrea Triathlon Festival were the proud hosts of the 2024 Youth National Championship including children’s triathlons held at the Longpoint, Loughrea on Sunday August 4th in less than ideal weather conditions.
Undeterred 106 youth athletes and 134 children athletes rose to the challenge to display ability and determination beyond their years to the delight of parents and spectators. The Youth National Championship which was revised with uniform distances across all youth age categories with emphasis on transition skills provided much drama and excitement. Six national champions were crowned, and one hundred heroes were acclaimed in this test of skill, judgement and courage. Not to be outshone the Children’s triathlon athletes displayed feats of determination in joyous fashion supported by parents and spectators alike. None of this fabulous racing experience for the youth and children athletes would have been possible without the support of their parents, race volunteers, race partners and technical officials that turned up on the day.
Triathlon National Series:
The 13th round of the 2024 Triathlon National Series hosted by the Loughrea Triathlon Festival, on Sunday the 4th of August was not an unlucky number for Stephen Donnelly from Liquid Motion TC and Aine Kinsella from Waterford Triathlon Club who each attained maximum series points.
The 2023 race of the year began with a 750m swim in the pristine waters of Loughrea Lake. The weather although blustery was kind as the wind came from a southerly direction keeping the waters relatively calm. All athletes navigated the well-marked course with support from volunteers and spectators along the shore.
Transitioning to the bike leg, athletes faced a challenging 3-kilometre headwind on the first section of both 10-kilometre laps. The course was well-marshalled, ensuring safety and smooth cycling.
The final leg of the triathlon was a run towards the picturesque town of Loughrea. The flat route was not complemented by a headwind on the outward lap providing a test of endurance and strategy. The finish line was a hub of excitement, with spectators cheering loudly as each athlete crossed the line.
Congratulations to all the athletes, volunteers, and spectators for making this event memorable. Loughrea Triathlon Festival look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
