Stathern Duathlon: Record field salutes a success story

A record entry pours out of Stathern for the opening 5km run EMN-160328-154220002

A total of 115 finishers completed two 5km runs either side of a 18km cycle test around the vale of Belvoir at the annual fundraising event.

Shaun Jackson (Chester Triathlon Club) was first across the line in a time of 1hr 13min 28secs, making up a 12-second deficit on the final leg to pip runner-up Niall Rennie (University of Nottingham Triathlon) by just 10 seconds.

Stefan Lawrence (TRISL Training/Belvoir Tri) filled the final podium spot, finishing in 1.14.42, while the fastest female prize went to Catherine Davies (Belvoir Tri Club) who clocked 1.29.41.

The 18km cycle section included some tricky climbs EMN-160328-154208002

Jason Barton (1.17.49) was first home among a large contingent from Melton running club, the Stilton Striders in seventh.

The event was supported by a volunteer crew of marshalls and cake bakers as well as sponsors Stathern Garage, Valley Plumbing and Heating, and Greenfields Countryside Ltd. Rehydration was provided by Brewsters Brewery and Belvoir Fruit Farms.

The day raised almost £3,000 for Stathern Primary School pupils and children in the village to access sporting opportunities.

Headteacher Matthew Lee said: “As a newcomer to Stathern Duathlon I was blown away by the efforts of the community to create an event that has such an amazing atmosphere and is so professionally run.

“The school is exceptionally grateful for the money raised by the event and donated; it will make a huge difference to the PE and sport within the school, from coaching to equipment and resources.”

The event also got the thumbs up from the competitors.

Belvoir Tri Group member Brian Martin said: “I have raced worldwide in events that have much higher entry costs that do not achieve the standards I enjoyed on Sunday. I look forward to next year.”