Wednesday 14th June, round 6 in the 11 training race season, not only saw the return of the sun but the return to racing of Scunthorpe Triathlon secretary, Lincsquad coach, Curly’s athletes event crew member, fastforward part time marshal and off that coach poster boy (Have a missed anyone?) Jeff Chappill.
Jeff has had to take a year out and focus his training, feeling the time was right to once again put on the trainers and cycle shoes and make his appearance at a duathlon as not just one of the organisers of the results but this time as an athlete.
His preparation started with a steady 5 mile run building from 9 minute mile down to his race pace at just below 5 minutes. Right from the off Jeff set a strong pace turning after the first 1/2 mile just a few seconds in front of Andy Holt who seemed determined to stay on his heels. The pace was just too much for Andy loosing some 10 seconds to Jeff after the mile.
On to the bike which over the years has proved to be Jeff’s nemesis however he has focused his training to improve this area and has had the assistance of a spin class coach (Thursday nights at the Pods 7,30 to 8.30) and has seen massive improvements. He pushed hard however Rich Robinson just getting the edge over Jeff to the turn but then slipped back, Jeff once again showing true strength and determination.
Just the final 2 miles to go and this time a strong challenge from James Nottingham pushed the in form Jeff to the limit until the last 200mtrs when Jeff showed a turn of pace that James just could not stay with.
Jeff not only took the win but beat the long standing course record held jointly by Steve Clark and Jon Frary.
Race report written by J Chappill.
On a more serious note it has been pointed out that there are increasing numbers doing the return leg of the run on the road. Some have asked permission to do this due to injuries however it seems to be getting a little wide spread. Kate has asked that her result be stricken from the list due to her running back on the road (after sustaining an injury and not wanting to exasperate it). I spoke to her and said that this seemed a little extreme and have agreed to add 2 minutes (far more than the advantage she would have gained) to her final run time.
We understand that the condition of the bank is not the best place to run however the duathlons where built around this course and it becomes unsafe, especially with the numbers we have to run back along the road. We ask that you bare this in mind.
click here for Training Race 6 Results
28th June round 7 will be a handicap and will be started under the handicap start times. A list will be put on the lamppost at the edge of transition, please look for your start time before registering and listen for your name called.
List of dates and venues can be downloaded here – Duathlon 2017 poster