Thursday, July 20, 2006
Final Results
Saturday, July 15, 2006
HAPPY DAYS!



hey ya all i for one would like to take this oppurtunity to thank the committee of TRIATHLONE for taking on and succeding at the momentous task that the days racing presented.
Fair play the hardwork was evident throughout and from the great emails and feedback ive been getting,(except for the mix up with the weather,the salmon run triathlon in Ballina got our weather,im joking Sandsy) the just shy of 700 competitors who particpated were pleased with the course and the challenge it presented.Thanks to the town and people of Athlone for there support,all the competitors who made it such a great race,a massive thanks to the supporters who braved a "Father Ted" style summer to cheer the gang on,a big thank you to the brave and hardy souls who voluntered there services for all the behind the scenes stuff that make a race work, and lets be honest,without whom there would be NO race,so thank ye all for the smiles in the rain,the competitors(of which i was one)for not crashing to much,.. and thanks to that guy who took absolutly EVERYTHING off after the swim to put his cycling gear onin front of a sizeable crowd i might add!!!!,you just dont see enough of that outside the army barracks on a wet and in one case wild saturday afternoon,mind you in Athlone,you never know..
and last but not least,a massive thank you to Hugh Mcatamney and Triathlone CEO Liam Heavin for the there amazing vision and dedication and personal sacrifice to make the race a very worthwhile experience...
i will see ye on a start line
dn
come race
ps i know i have forgetten to thank some people here but if you had posted me the cheques as arranged then you would be gloating now(CM)
(im kidding)
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Official Statement on Timing Issues:
Following an analysis of the results from the triAthlone Classic event, we have determined that the errors in results were due to the following:
1) Incorrectly chosen age groups, date of births and wave starts
2) Disqualified athletes not handing back chips and continuing to race
3) Athletes not completing the full three laps of the run course
4) Athletes setting off the finish mat, by running close to it on one of their run laps.
Without any back up data, it is impossible to correct all of these errors.
We cannot arbitrarily conclude that "Athletes X's" run time was incorrect based on previous results even though it may appear unlikely that that person may have achieved a significant improvement in time for our race.
Should we make such changes, or seek to disqualify/penalise without any hard data to prove it, those athletes effected could justifiably object and we wouldn't really have a leg to stand on.
So, this is a catch 22 situation. The Age-group and Wave Positioning errors are a result of postal entry form errors which would not happen with a full on-line entry system. We are planning to have this in place from the beginning of next year.
Furthermore, due to the fact that there were two massive races on the same day, the timing company were a little stretched for equipment. Ideally, we would have a mat running accross the whole run finish area, to capture each time the athlete has completed a lap. This was not possible on Saturday.
Ultimately we have to rely on the honesty of any athletes who realize that there has been a mistake. This has happened, as both Paul Byrne, Jag Gunawardana have both acknowledged that they didn't deserve a prize. There are a few other obvious errors up at the top. We would hope that in the interest of our sport, these people would come forward and make themselves known to us. I think anyone that looks at the finish times can pick out the anomalies themselves.
We apologize for these errors and promise that we will do everything we can to ensure they don't happen next year.
Hugh McAtamney
Race Director - Triathlone
hugh@triathlone.com
Issues Concerning Results
Further discrepancies have occured by athletes not completing enough laps in the run section. These include one or two prizewinners. Once can imagine our surprise on deeper examination of the results - with some runners improving their run times by over 5 minutes from other races earlier this year! We are currently trying to sort this out with the timing chip company, and will revert with a finalised results sheet shortly. We apologise for the error.
Lost & Found
1. One helmet
2. 3 wetsuits
3. A pair of goggles
No other items were found or have been returned to the organisers. Please email Morgan if you wish to reclaim these items: morgan@triathlone.com
Photos Online - © Gordon Thompson
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Monday, July 10, 2006
triAthlone Provisional Results
Photos and report to follow. Anybody with photos of the event can send them to info@triathlone.com. We will put them up on the site with the rest of the them.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Pontoon is Craned In....
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Irish Aer Corps to Start triAthlone 2006!
Elite Women now part of Classic
DONT PANIC!!!

its only 4 days to go and i guess that a lot of people are wondering what to expect from what is shaping up to be the largest triathlon in Ireland so far this year. as a lot of the people who are competing in this race are new to the sport, i have put a few bits together to help you focus and prepare for saturday. and remember...dont panic stay well hydrated (constant sipping is better than downing pints of water over the next few days and dont have anymore hard training sessions at this point as it will not make a blessed bit of difference,relax it is far better to go in 90% trained and 110% motivated than the opposite...
you've done the time in the pool, spent the time on the bike and dragged yourself up the roads with your neighbours lookin at you sideways,but its all going to be worth it when you cross the finish line in Triathlone this weekend,trust me ,whether your a seasoned pro or a complete tri newbie savour and enjoy your race and remember...dont panic
Aim to be at the event with plenty of time this saturay. if your driving down to the event weigh off traffic restrictions in the town.(i would personally aim to park at the Golden Island shopping center opposite the finish line) go to the toilet
ATHLONE CASTLE
Start by registering, 12 to 3:30, confirming your start time (wave).be at the swim start before 4:50. Be clear as to where numbers are required (1 sticker on the helmet,1 sticker on the right hand side of the bike, 1 on the back of your top and 1 on the front for the run).Remember this is a split transition so your going to rack your bike and make your way to the opposite of the river to start the swim. go to the toilet
Next get your bike sorted out.Place it in the transition area. Make sure tyres are properly inflated, wheels spinning smoothly and bits like bottles and pumps attached. Go for a short ride to make sure the gears and brakes are working properly - any problems, ASK as someone will nearly always have the tool or bit you need if you haven't got it yourself. Leave it in a nice low gear so that you can pedal easily at the start of the cycle. (CM1) Your place will be pre allocated, so place your bike beside the corresponding number... Ensure you have your RACE ID card as this will ensure you can get in and rack up.no boxes, bags, suitcases,wardrobes,treasure chest etc are to be left in the transition area and we mean it(you will only need a bike,helmet,sunglasses cycling/running shoes, bottle so as you catch my drift...
Pin your number(s) to your top.TI rules say dont fold them,so dont,use a number belt if you wish. Make sure the front and back are not pinned together (CM2) go to the toilet
Make sure your laces are loose enough to get them on easily (CM3) or use speed laces(elastic)
The clothing you will be racing in should be on you at this stage ie your race kit and over this your warm up gear and you will be given a bag for the stuff you are going to use for the swim(goggles, hat, wet suit/lubricant race belt etc)....so leave your bike behind you with your helmet set up so as you can put it directly on your head and head across the bridge and make your way to the swim start...get over well before 4:50,it should take 5 minute walk and take in the nice view.. deep breath...inhale peace, exhale conflict..relax go to the toilet
dont panic
the gear you have on for your warm up will go in the bag that you carried over and this bag has a number on it and when your warmed up and ready for the GO,this bag is handed over and the Triathlone crew store it securely in one of our tents, to await you when you finish,and you will finish...
If it is raining (no we don't cancel the event!)
Have baby powder in your socks & shoes to ease entry and absorb water.
Vaseline helps prevent chafing when running in swimming kit go to the toilet
Walk through the route from the swim exit to transition noting any obstacles,the route to be taken and the carpeted exit up by the castle etc as you are going to be running over it in bare feet?
In transition visualise the sequence that you will do things in (see below). Remember the location of your bike and kit and decide the route you will take to it from the swim.
Identify the way back into transition after finishing the bike leg, where you have to dismount and the route back to your spot...there will be a lot of bikes there so look for some markers to work off(that pole, that tree etc make sure its not an item that could possibly be moved as when the red fog off competition descends over you you may experience difficulty rationalising during the race,,this is normal deep breathe inhale peace etc..
.Visualise the sequence, T 1 wetsuit hat goggles of,helmet on, bring bike to exit of transition and mount and pedal ...
Visualise the sequence when you get back - rack bike, then helmet off, change shoes (if appropriate), etc.
Walk the route out for the run. Take a note of the drink stations. go to the toilet
Go for a light jog to warm up, do your stretching exercises (what, you don't do them??). do your normal routine ,dont eat any fancy go faster foods as they will more than upset your stomach so play it safe, The Honey Pot in Athlone have sponsored part of the goody bags and can look after you for any last minute special dietary requirements...
.
One of the rules of triathlons is that race briefings never quite start on time.yours will happen prior to race start,This is because the organisers are sorting out about the roadworks that appeared the previous day, the gate/door that now has a new lock on (and no one gave them a key), the entrants who gave wrong info and need to be moved to the correct wave and who will cover for the marshal who is sleeping off the previous night's revelry (he had promised to be there!) you get the picture folks as you will see on the day a lot of people have put a lot of time to bring you the best race experience we possibly can...
have a smile on your face when your crossing the finish line (for the cameras) AND BE NICE TO THE RACE ORGANISERS AND MARSHALLS AS they really only want to you to have a fair safe race,which you will.
Keep well hydrated - take small drinks frequently · Check on queues for the loos and allow for the wait (CM4).
CM means common mistake!
remember,enjoy the swim. we have swam it and its fine,if you do hit any sort of difficulty,raise your hand in the air and one of the 60 water safety personell will be there to help you immediately..dont panic...weaker swimmers should stay to the back and sides during the swim as it can get a bit physical...
helmets must be worn on the bike so put it on first and take it off last please..
take care on the bike portion,rules of the road apply and no drafting in the classic race, ie a box thats 3 metres wide by 7 long which you have 15 seconds to get through,and if you do get passed by one of the many speed merchants you must drop back,so no sucking wheels,play fair as the draft busters will penalise anyone found cheating, also keep an eye out for potholes and other bits of dodgy surfaces,we will have them marked but you will still need to be vigilant...
take it eay for the start of the run untill your body shakes out a bit then get going...
enjoy the spectacle of the elite race,and the let yourselves go at the after party, and i guess that s that...enjoy yourself and the test that the course presents,have a safe and great race from all involved..
see you on the start line
derek nugent...come race!!!
Elite Briefing and Guidelines (4th july)
Hello Premier Athletes
Please take note
- registration is open for elites until
- transition is open for elites until
- transition re-opens at
- elite briefing is IN the transition area at
Swim
- It is a pontoon start
- You will be given a position on the pontoon based on order viewable at registration
- your names will be called out on the day onto the pontoon
- If you fail to enter transition before the first cyclist reaches the top of grace road you will be disqualified
-you will pick your bike up on the church side of the road (at your number)
Bike
- No tri bars on the bike (nothing longer then the handle bars allowed)
- We have road closures in place but you must be wary and give way to cars and traffic
- If you are lapped on the bike you are disqualified
- you will exit transition cycle to the turnaround, come back through transition and around the castle roundabout and then back through transition.
- You will do this 3 times, on your fourth lap you will reenter transition on the river side of the road, drop your bike on the racks on that side of the road at your designated number
- You will do three laps of the town of
the first 10 athletes will receive prizes prizes to be handed out at the Athlone TOWN Centre (at
Transition will re-open at
Hugh@triathlone.com
Feeling Nervous? Good, coz there's only 4 days to go!

Getting the heebie-jeebies? Well, we have because the clock is ticking - and this time 4 days we will be just hours away from the dawn of triAthlone 2006! For those of you who are have their first initiation into triathlon, it a time to just chill out, read the Athlete Pack, and make sure that you have a clear picture in your head of what gear to bring, your pre-race nutrition and hydration, running order of the race etc. One of Ireland's top 10 triathletes and Midland Triathlon Club member Derek Nugent is preparing a general advice piece which will be posted here later for all of you who feel you need some help in preparing for the big day.
So here is some of the latest news and running order for the happenings on the big day:
-> Registration opens at 12.00 in Athlone Castle. It closes at 3.30 for Classic/Relays and 4.30 for Elites.
-> Setup your transition area (it will be numbered). No bags or boxes are allowed in transition - just your bike/helmet/etc
-> Following Registration/Trans setup, you should walk to the Finish Control Area to the Baggage Drop Tent.
-> Your Goodie Bag will contain your Race Numbers, Swim Cap, ID Card etc.
-> KEEP YOUR ID CARD ON YOU! You won't get in anywhere with it!
-> Put on your wetsuit in Finish Control Area, and walk to the Pontoon for Race start. Classic/Relay, get there before 4.50!
-> Here you will put in your wave according to your Agegroup.
-> Classic and Relay Races start IN the water. Elites start on the Pontoon.
-> The swim safety team numbers 60 in total and is lead by Athlone Sub-Aqua Club.
-> On exiting the water, the run into transition is up the steps by the castle.
-> For Classic/Relay athletes, bike racks will be down the middle of Grace Road - & will be numbered.
-> For Classic/Relay athletes, Rules of the Road apply during the cycle. Roads are NOT closed.
-> A corridor will be barriered across the Town Bridge on exit of transition to begin the run.
-> The Run Route has been modified, and will now not go through the Civic Centre
-> From the left turn at Griffith Street, it will now come STRAIGHT up Church Street.
-> Prize Presentation will now take place at 9.30pm on a Podium in front of the Civic Centre.
-> Post-Race Party kicks off at 10.00pm in the Price of Wales Hotel, adjacent to the Civic Centre.
-> DON'T loose your ID Card - No ID Card, NO FREE ACCESS TO POST RACE PARTY!
We're all really looking forward to seing you Saturday. Let the fun and games begin.....
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Aquathon Results!
Click here to download the times and results in Microsoft Excel Format
Friday, June 30, 2006
in Memory of Caroline Kearney

The organisers of triAthlone would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of Caroline Kearney. The following memorial published on the International Triathlon Unions (ITU) website underlines Ireland's loss, and that of our sport. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very sad time.
In memory of Caroline Kearney - June 30, 2006 - www.triathlon.org
Triathlon mourns the passing of one of it's children as Caroline Kearney was tragically killed in a training accident in France. Caroline was a lovely person, shy and unassuming and always nice to everyone she met. A dedicated and talented athlete, she followed in her mother’s footsteps to become one of Ireland’s leading Triathletes. She won the title of Irish Champion 3 years in a row and went on to represent Ireland on the ITU circuit. She was very focussed on her career as a professional athlete and her main ambition was to become the first female Irish Triathlete to compete in the Olympic Games. To this end she began training in France with the Montpellier club and she showed every sign that she had what it takes to be a champion. It was while training that a car took her life, she was only 24 when her life was so cruelly snatched away. For everybody who met Caroline it was an honour and a privilege to know her as both a friend and an athlete. She had a winners attitude, determination, and perseverance so essential as a professional athlete. As a person she was kind, gentle and modest and never had a bad word to say about anyone. Everybody in the triathlon family will miss her greatly and we extend our deepest sympathies to her family. Caroline and her family will be remembered in our thoughts and hearts.
RACE FULL - Entries Now Closed!
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Ministerial Launch - triAthlone's bid for the European & World Championships!

"Teeing off triAthlone with Minister O'Donoghue and the Ryder Cup"
Pictured from left to right: Liam Heavin (CEO - triAthlone), Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism John O'Donoghue, Martin Dennaney (Director of Marketing & Communications - Waterways Ireland), and Paul Keeley (Marketing Director - Fáilte Ireland).
Yesterday marked one of the biggest days in the history of Irish sports events. Minister for Sport, Mr. John O'Donoghue was present to offically launch the Ryder Cup at Custom House Quay, and simultaneously launch triAthlone's bid to host the European and World Triathlon Championships.
Speaking to TV3 News, triAthlone CEO Liam Heavin said "we feel that we have all the components needing to bring one of the world's biggest sporting spectaculars to Ireland. Being here today at the Ryder Cup launch, and to launch our bid with Fáilte Ireland, Waterways Ireland and Minister O'Donoghue just shows what can be done. Athlone is the perfect setting for these events as we scale up; year on year to our eventual goal of an annual world-class event."
Click here to download the offical press release
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
ENTRIES ALMOST FULL - CLOSES FRIDAY!
Race Registration Change
Sunday, June 25, 2006
2 WEEKS TO GO! - the countdown begins....

The countdown to triAthlone 2006 has well and truly begun, with the event now only 2 weeks away. The offical local-media launch took place yesterday beside the town bridge. Pictured above (left to right) are Local Senator Mary O'Rourke who got the 2-week countdown underway with the assistance of Athlone Mayor Kieran Malloy, Liam Heavin (Head of triAthlone), and Aoife Morrissy (Waterways Ireland).
The town awaits with eager anticipation....
Friday, June 23, 2006
Price of Wales Hotel -Special Offer!

The Prince of Wales Hotel in heart of Athlone; the official Hotel and Meeting Place of triAthlone 2006, and site of our post-race party, is offering a special room-rate to all triAthlone compeditors. Why not make a weekend of it and spend the weekend in Athlone! We promise you a warm welcome, and all the best that the town has to offer. For more information or to avail of the special offer phone the Prince of Wales Hotel today, quoting "triAthlone". Their phone number is 09064-76666.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
2006 Bike Sponsors Confirmed!


triAthlone is pleased to announce that Athlone Town Centre (Gallico), and Cycle Superstore (Dublin) are to jointly sponsor the bike section of the 2006 race.
More information on both companies is available on:
Athlone Town Centre: www.athlonetowncentre.com
Cycle Superstore: www.cyclesuperstore.ie
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Premier race start list, Prize money and other news
We have had a great response locally to the event and this is reflected in the face that we
have now passed over the 400 entry mark.
We are capping the race at 500, relays included, so there is still some space left at the moment.
There is likely to be a rush of late entries however so just be careful if you havent made your mind up.
You can enter online through our website www.triathlone.com
The elite mens race has over 20 entries (published below). We will CLOSE the first preference entry for
Premier League athletes on the 12th June, so the race will be open to those eligibile on a first come first serve basis.
Remember, you must be able to swim around 13mins for the 750 or you risk being disqualified on the day.
We are delighted to announce that Irelands Top Triathlete, Gavin Noble who finished 15th in the commonwealth games and 12th in the world U23 championships will be racing. There are a number of top irish athletes including premier league champion, Brian Crinnion also competing.
Mens Entry List/Request to Entry list
-------------------------------
Aidan Murphy
Alan Maye
Aubrey Storey
Basil Henrick
Brian Crinion
Brian Jenkins
Bryce Irvine
Cathal Kelly
Conor McKenna
Dave Corcoran
Darren Crangton
Davis Sands
Edward Cooke
Fearghal Mulvihill
Gavin Noble
John Power
Kevin O Brien
Paul Wilson
Scott Hannon
Stuart Hannon
Tim Downing
However, we face a major problem with the womens event. To date there are only 4 entries. It will be very difficult for us to justify to the local community shutting down the town of athlone for a race of this size. We need more women or else this race will be cancelled. However we promise that all women will get automatic entry into the classic race at no extra charge, should this happen.
We are also delighted to announce that the prize fund will top over 5000€
Elite prize money will go from 1st to 10th.
All age groups 1st, 2nd, 3rd, will receive prizes.
We also have a number of course record Primes totaling 600€
100 fastest swim split
100 fastest bike split (both courses)
100 Fastest Run split
200 Course record
The prince of Wales are holding a summer party to coincide with our event. All athletes and race crew will be
given free passes to this event. So we encourage people to stay around for the night.
Over the next few weeks, a full event timetable, access, registration and parking information as well as both race briefings will be added to the website
www.triathlone.com
We also have a few surprises lined up.....
See you all soon.
Tri-Athlone
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Kids Aquathon Race Registration Open!

The Lions Club Kids Aquathon, in association with Athlone Regional Sports Centre and DB Cycles Athlone is now open for registration. The race will involve a pool swim, followed by a run on a course laid out around the astro pitch adjacent. The race will be held at Athlone Regional Sports Centre on Sunday the 2nd of July 2006 - the Sunday before triAthlone. Entry for the race is free. Check out our "2006 Kids Aquathon" page for the downloadable entry form. 3 catagories will be run on the day, U-12, U-14 and U-16. Info on distances and prizes to follow next week.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
2006 Run Sponsors Confirmed!


triAthlone is pleased to announce that DBC Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Clinics, and Russell Brennan Keane Chartered Accountants are to jointly sponsor the run section of the 2006 race.
More information on both companies is available on:
DBC Physiotherapy: www.dbc.ie
Russell Brennan Keane: www.rbk.ie
Map of Course
Monday, May 22, 2006
PRESS RELEASE: Waterways Named Title Sponsor

triAthlone is pleased to annouce that Waterways Ireland will be the title sponsor for our 2006 race. "The town of Athlone is synonymous with the river, the lake and the water; and therefore we feel it is apt that Waterways Ireland have agreed to take title sponsorship for Athlone's premier sporting event" said Liam Heavin, head of triAthlone.
"Our mutual objective is to promote our wonderful local amenity that is the Shannon. July 8th will see the best use of our waterway: with the swim portion of the triathlon taking key focus from our 35m pontoon start, to the finish in Burgess Park beside the weir. The Shannon is the epicentre of triAthlone, and Waterways Ireland is the perfect partner in making this event a fantastic success" he added.
More information on Waterways Ireland is available on www.waterwaysireland.org
Further details on other sponsors to follow with press releases later this week.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Triathlon Training in Athlone

hello all derek nugent here from triathlone and the midland tri club just like to wish you all happy and safe training to you over the coming 2 months. for those who are getting ready for their first race to the seasoned vets,this is just an indicator of whats going on in the ATHLONE area...
SWIM
athlone regional sport center mon-fri lane swimming
mon to fri 07:30am to 9am also tue and thurs are sessions(structured) so get stuck in,various other swims on but these ones are the best for tri prep.now is the time to get your stroke straightened out...
programmes are available inquiries to 0906470975
OPEN WATER
if your feeling up for it 6pm in lilliput on lough ennell near mullingar for a group swim with midland tri club(wet suit advised) and depending on feedback i can hold an intro on the messier points of open water swimming and also look to form a open water swim group in coosan point?mull it over and get back to me
BIKE TRAINING (helmets are a must)
a fast enough group goes every tue and thur @ 6pm from the co-op in monksland but it is/can be fast as its the shannonside cycling club,they norm is a 32kph+avg covering 60-90k,2-3hrs...
wed 6 pm
there is also a beginer group going from pat buckleys bike shop,20 k avg for 60-90mins ,50kish,get stuck in and pat and taddy the polish bike genius will show you the ropes and do it at your own pace...
sundays are a long group ride duration is normally 3 hrs or more, 32 k avg speed up to 100k or wherever it can take us but if we get the interest then we will gladly organise a second and third group if need be to cater for all levels from novice to neo pro,the balls in your court folks...
RUN TRAINING
ok so there is no athletic club in athlone as your all aware of and im super busy as it is i can just about squeeze my own training in,and im being very serious on that one folks,but i am willing to stick my oar in with a group of like minded individuals who would be interested in setting up an athletics club here so there you have it.
if we have enough numbers then we can see about organising running groups here in athlone,in particular long easy runs and my personal pet hate,the fast stuff we know as speed work.
BRICK TRAINING(recomended,if only for the ouch factor!!!)
saturday mornings 9am lilliput lough ennel mullingar with midalnd tri club
this involves the training of the body to go from the swim to bike including transition,bike to run et cetera and is in itself a discipline all off its own.this is a great session for all as its a swim first then we work on acclimitising the body to the rigors of racing,and is also a bit of a laugh as well,this caters for all levelsjust go at your own pace and enjoy...
FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN JOINING MIDLAND TRI CLUB CONTACT JIM BENNET @
0868521442
Email Derek on: derek@triathlone.com
































