Duathlon Win for Year 7 James

Posted at 11:10 am on 3rd February, 2021

Sporting Success in Virtual Event

We have some fantastic news about the sporting success of Year 7 student, James, who recently won the Junior Duathlon at the Castle Series Arctic Monkey competition.

James is a keen sportsman and regularly competes in triathlons, alongside competitive swimming and climbing competitions.  All training and competitions have been put on hold during lockdown, however, James has been competing in virtual sporting events. 

On 30th January, James competed in the Castle Series Arctic Monkey.  There were two events on offer including a duathlon and a triathlon.  James chose the duathlon as the triathlon event would have included an open water swim in 4c water! 

The duathlon challenged competitors to complete a 2.5km run, then a 10km cycle followed by a further 1.25km run.

James’ Mum said:

“We are super proud of James, especially as the cycle leg was completed whilst it was snowing! It’s a national event and very popular, but this time there were even some international people competing.”

James said:

“It was really good to win; I’ve won quite a few events now and I’m looking forward to the next one.”

Outside of lockdown, James stays really active and trains at the Depot Climbing Academy and the Manchester Triathlon Club twice a week, as well as Flixton Swimming Club five times a week! 

James’ swim coach used to compete in triathlons and Iron Man events and it inspired him to look into it for himself.  He began taking part in triathlons three years when he was 9 and has enjoyed quite a few wins along the way.  

This is his second lockdown win; in the first lockdown he took part in a Three Series Event involving an open water swim in Sale Waterpark and won two junior titles as well as coming second in a joint junior and adult race. 

James’ Mum added: 

“James is always on the go! He has a lot of energy and all the activities really focus him and this helps with his schoolwork too.  The challenges and events give him a target and a goal to work towards.”

James is working hard to maintain his exercise to compete in the next virtual event in February, including an online challenge to run 100k in four weeks.  His personal best is a 23 minute 5k. Congratulations to James and keep up the great work!