In a first for the local triathlon world, organisers of the firmus energy City of Derry Triathlon 2015 have announced today that this year’s event, which will take place on Sunday 14 June, will include a Para-Triathlon element.
Paul McGilloway, Race Director of the firmus energy City of Derry triathlon, explained: “We are delighted that both our main triathlon and the Kids’ TRYathlon will be open to para-triathletes. These will be the first para-tri races in Ulster to be run in conjunction with a Club’s Triathlon and both Triathlon Ireland and Disability Sport NI have been integral to enabling us to include this element in our events.
“We will be working closely with them in the run-up to the race to ensure that any adaptions necessary are made and that the right support is in place to allow the para-athletes to compete safely and to the best of their abilities on the day.
“We were keen to make this event as inclusive as possible and this new element is a great way to open the experience to even more people who previously haven’t been able to participate in this Triathlon. We are also introducing a para-tri into the Kids’ TRYathlon, which takes place the week before, so there is no one who should be left out.”
Phenomenal support
He added, “We are really looking forward to the para-triathletes competing this year and I am sure that the support for them will be phenomenal from the hundreds of spectators. There will be a great atmosphere on the day and we hope that the event will inspire lots of people to become interested in sport, irrespective of their ability.”
Third year of the firmus energy sponsorship
The firmus energy City of Derry Triathlon, now in its third year, will see more than 500 people gather to compete in the event, which comprises a 750m open water swim in the River Foyle followed by a 20km closed road cycle and culminates in a 5km flat run that takes in key attractions including the iconic Peace Bridge. The para-athletes competing will be able to complete all or an element of the Triathlon, depending on their ability.
Angeline Murphy, from firmus energy, added: “We are delighted that the Para-Triathlon element has been introduced to this year’s main triathlon, as well as the Kids’ TRYathlon. NWTC have really driven this event over the years to become the success that it is and it is just getting better all the time. This year it was granted National Series status, which is also a great achievement for the organisers.”
The events will be open to any para-triathlete wishing to compete. Those interested in taking part in the main event should visit www.triathlonireland.com and for more information on the Kids’ para-TRYathlon, contact thomas.mccallion@derrycity.gov.uk.
