Dimmock glad he gave it a tri

The 72-year-old, who competes for Coventry Triathletes, completed the 1,500m open water swim, 40k bike ride and 10k run in 2hr 47min 43sec to finish almost three minutes clear of nearest rival Brian Grierson.

Dimmock’s overall position of 296 from a start list of 353 also saw him cross the finish line ahead of rivals who were up to 50 years younger than him.

Dimmock was a late convert to the sport after branching out from running and credits it with keeping him injury-free in addition to being an enjoyable pastime.

“It’s fantastic to win an award at this race, but the times don’t really matter, it’s the having fun that counts,” he said.

“I was originally a runner and then I got into triathlons around ten years ago, just to give it a try.

“It’s good to train with all three disciplines as it spares the knees.”

Jem Lawson, chair of Triathlon England, said: “The National Triathlon Championships has been a great success and is the perfect way to experience a triathlon event, whether you race or come down as a spectator.

“We send huge congratulations to all those who entered, and to those who were crowned worthy winners.

“We have been delighted by the positive response we have seen towards the sport over the past few weeks and it shows the sport is growing significantly.

“The great thing about triathlon is that it’s open to every ability. Each discipline is easily accessible to everyone and the National Championship series highlights this message, with the range of abilities and reasons people have for participating.”

If you are inspired, and would like to ‘Give it a Tri’ in a fun team event, then spots are still available to enter the Triathlon England National Club Championships.

Visit www.triathlonengland.org or contact the events team at [email protected] for more information.