The 6^thBlackrock Sprint Triathlon took place last weekend with over 270 competitors entered from all around the country. At first it looked like the weather would be kind this year but unfortunately the wind and rain picked up only hours before the start providing another challenge for the athletes.

A large number of Blackrock residents also took part, many only deciding in the weeks running up to the event to enter and brushed the dust off bikes and runners. For many this was their first triathlon and Blackrock is proving to be a popular starter triathlon for those wishing to see what it is all about. The Blackrock Tri consists of a 500m swim in the shallow waters of Blackrock beach which on Saturday proved to be very choppy indeed. Following the Swim competitors took to their bikes for a 16km cycle to Castlebellingham which was plain sailing due to the following wind but presented quite a challenge on the return journey. To finish up the competitors had to endure persistent rain and cold for their 6km run around the village. However few spirits were dampened and there was a great atmosphere around for the post event barbeque and prize giving which continued long into the evening.