The Llandudno Sea Triathlon was named as ‘Race of the Year’ (with less than 500 competitors) at the prestigious 220 Triathlon Awards, held at Sandown Park Racecourse on 12 February.

2010 was only the second year that the North Wales-based triathlon had taken place.  At the same awards last year, the event had come third in this category, and to go on to win this year is a true accolade for organisers Xtra Mile Events.

With its stunning coastal location and vista, and closed roads, the Llandudno Sea Triathlon is becoming a “must do” race in the triathlon calendar, and the 2010 race attracted 450 competitors from as far afield as Australia and Germany.

An emotional Race Organiser, Simon Hill, gave an acceptance speech paying particular note to all those who had played their part in staging the event.  This included Conwy Council, Llandudno Town Council (in particular Events Officer, Alun Pritchard), the Mayor of Llandudno, Llandudno Harbour Master, Llandudno Sailing Club, Conwy Police, Llandudno Swimming Centre, Venue Cymru, Carneddau Triathlon Club, Colwyn Bay Canoe Club, all the fantastic volunteers and officials, and, of course, all the local residents who came out in force to support the triathlon.   Hill also thanked all those who voted, afterwards stating, “It is a tremendous honour and privilege that people took the trouble to vote for this event.  Thank you all so much.”

The Llandudno Sea Triathlon incorporates two races: a standard distance triathlon and a shorter, sprint distance triathlon.  Llandudno is an ideal location for a sea-based triathlon because of its Blue Flag beaches with excellent water quality.  It is also a striking Victorian town with plenty of family entertainment, set amidst spectacular scenery; and with plenty of opportunities for spectators to view all three stages of the event, there is always a fantastic atmosphere.  The event incorporates the thrill of a sea swim, and a challenging cycle section on mainly closed roads around the Great Orme (a 225metre high limestone headland) with its glorious vista over the North Wales Coast. The run route is over and back over the ‘Little Orme’ (another imposing headland), with a sea breeze to cool competitors to the finish.

The 2010 race attracted a lot of fundraising competitors, who raised thousands of pounds for various charities, including £5,000 for the Nightingale House Hospice.

The Llandudno Sea Triathlon will take place again in 2011 on 17^th July.  More details can be found at www.xtramileevents.com/events/calendar/llandudno-sea-triathlon