Triumph and Team Spirit Shine at Knutsford’s Inaugural Triathlon (18th May 2025)

Triumph and joy filled the atmosphere as enthusiastic competitors crossed the finishing line at the very first Knutsford Triathlon. The event welcomed both novices and seasoned athletes, all coming together to participate in Knutsford Triathlon Club’s inaugural swimming, cycling, and running race. Blessed with glorious sunshine, the day proved to be a resounding success as all 118 entrants completed the course and proudly received their medals. Crowds lined the streets to cheer on both cyclists and runners, adding to the celebratory mood.

Inspiring Performances from All Walks of Life

Among the competitors was veteran athlete Andrew Coatsworth, whose participation marked an extraordinary achievement. At 72 years old, Andrew had only learnt to swim earlier in the year, having taken up adult swimming lessons at the local leisure centre.

“Until six months ago, I was a non-swimmer. I’ve been having adult swimming lessons at the leisure centre and they’ve been absolutely brilliant.”

I enjoyed it very much and was very pleased to be the first man home in the over 50s! They did a brilliant job organising it,” he shared.

Encouraging Newcomers and Building Confidence

In the lead-up to the event, Knutsford Leisure Centre hosted a swim, bike, and run course aimed at encouraging first-time participants.

Lee Malkin, sports development manager at Everybody Health & Leisure, played a key role in coaching beginners and also made his triathlon debut as a competitor.

Reflecting on his experience, Lee, 39, said, “It was a big learning curve for me, the triathlon club was brilliant. Their volunteers were so welcoming and reassuring, they made us all feel relaxed.”

Accessible Distances for All Abilities

The event catered for differing abilities with shorter supersprint distances—featuring a nine-length swim, 13.4km bike ride, and 2.8km run—for first-timers, while seasoned athletes took on 17 lengths in the pool, a 26km cycle ride, and a 5.5km run.

Lee added, “The hardest bit was going from the bike to the run. My legs were like jelly. Hitting the ground running was tough. You had to get into a rhythm.” He expressed his pride in all participants and his newfound confidence to tackle the full course next year.

Friendship and Support Among Participants

Four ‘netball mums’ formed a team to improve their fitness and trained together for their first triathlon.

Anne Hughes said, “It forced me to learn how to swim.” Sarah Stafford commented, “Can’t quite believe I completed a triathlon and feel really proud. I didn’t even own a bike until February! Everyone at Knutsford Tri Club was supportive and encouraging and it was a really friendly event.

The pool swim, flat and picturesque bike ride and short run made it accessible and enjoyable.” Orla Flannery added, “It was great fun, so positive with everyone cheering us on. One of the dads had a big sign up in the pool with our names on which was really sweet.”

Community Spirit and Local Leaders

Former mayor Andrew Malloy also took part for the first time, while his wife, Nicole, a previous competitor, completed the full course. Andrew said, “I hate running and I’m not the best swimmer, but I survived! I enjoy cycling and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere was so good. There was a great buzz in the town with all the crowds.” Mayor Councillor Bryan Hartley, who started the event, summed up the day: “The first Knutsford Triathlon is a true celebration of sport, spirit and community. This event is a triumph of teamwork. The spirit is alive in every athlete. Thank you, Knutsford, you’ve made history.”

Meticulous Planning and Future Events

Knutsford Tri Club spent months meticulously planning every detail of the event. Peter Ford, chairman of the club’s triathlon event committee, expressed pride in the entire team and noted that feedback had been overwhelmingly positive. “We are a very welcoming club and some competitors have already said they’d like to join us,” he remarked.

The club has confirmed it will run the event again next year, inviting both beginners and experienced athletes to take part on Sunday 17th May 2026.
For more information and to register, visit the 2026 Knutsford Triathlon page.