There was a good turn out in all age groups and the Under 10s took to the water first with a 50m swim and 400m run. Nervous parents shouted their support from the lakeside and wondered had were their kids fit for the cold, cold depths. They needn't have worried; having circled the canoe marking the halfway point the youngsters were still looking strong heading for the transition point. Wetsuits off and shoes on they took off for the 400m run. Probably the most outstanding swim-run was completed by young wheelchair-user Andrew Greer. Andrew's determination and talent shone through and nobody underestimated his effort or achievement.
Next in were the 11-13s and 14-16s in a combined heat, running 800m and 1200m respectively. Almost immediately a spear-head developed with Paddy Erskine, Daniel Molloy, Niamh Rogers, Laura Murphy and Diarmuid Curran leading the way. Paddy made it to the slipway first with Daniel just a step behind him. Laura was the first girl out of the water and stayed strong throughout the event. The two or three lap runs gave spectators a further chance to cheer the competitors on.
Overall the event was a great success. Swimmers' safety was taken care of by beach life-guards Conor Boden and Rory McMullan in the water along with kayak-based lifeguards. All finishers received a medal and well-packed goody bag, sponsored by McConveys' Cycles and awards were presented to those who finished in the top three places in each category.
RESULTS (full results will be posted soon)
U10 Boys
1st Flynn Ryan
U10 Girls
1st Kate McCauley
2nd Anna Maria Lundy
3rd Philippa Cleave
Para-triathlele Award
Andrew Greer
Award of Merit
Fionn McKibbin
11-13 Boys
1st Daniel Molloy
2nd Diarmuid Curran
3rd Paul Smyth
11-13 Girls
1st Laura Murphy
2nd Amy Godfrey
3rd Katie Lundy
14-16 Boys
1st Paddy Erskine
2nd Conor Mahoney
14-16 Girls
1st Ellen Erskine
2nd Niamh Rogers
3rd Orla McCartan