Woods & McGrady win Final Round of BMW Duathlon National Series

The Phoenix Park Duathlon was the last round of this year’s BMW Duathlon National Series and as such a strong field of over 200 athletes crossed the start line on the day in the final hunt for points. Finbar McGrady and Becky Woods topped the podium on a very blustery day in Dublin. Thanks to organisers Belpark Triathlon Club for sending in the following race report from the event.

Challenging conditions

Belpark Triathlon Club was delighted to host 229 duathletes on a challenging morning for racing in Dublin’s famous Phoenix Park. The hardy competitors won’t forget Storm Hannah quickly! The race was lucky to go ahead, given the strong winds with gusts of 70kmph making the bike course difficult. Safety was paramount, so the technical officials and race organisers adjusted start times and competitors did well to ride safely.

First over the line was Becky Woods (Piranha Triathlon Club) and Finbar McGrady (Newry Triathlon Club), ahead of a competitive field. Ellen Vitting and Natasha Kelly completed the women’s podium. In the men’s race, Brendan Buck and Jonathan Butler were second and third respectively. Over 30 clubs nationwide were represented during the final round the 2019 BMW Duathlon National Series.

The race involved a 5km run around the 15 Acres Pitches, with a head wind on the back straight. Five laps on the undulating bike course into headwinds and crosswinds made this section a test of bike handling, not just speed and power.

Feedback has been positive: “really well organised, friendly people and (despite windy weather conditions) fun race. Will definitely do this one again!”

• RACE RESULTS: Download Now

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• Next race in the Phoenix Park Duathlon Series: Wednesday 5^th June and 10^th July.