Wight Tri athletes tackled fog, broken bikes and muddy fields on Sunday (8th February) as Wellow hosted its first-ever multi-stage endurance challenge.
Despite the foggy and damp conditions, there was no rain as 28 members of Wight Tri turned out to test a brand new duathlon course.
The run section offered a choice between 3km or 4.5km, taking in Wellow Top and the main road. Those opting for the shorter route faced a muddy field crossing.
Cyclists then took on 13.5km loops – either one or two – along Wilmingham Lane, past Tapnell Farm, and through the dips and climbs of Dodpits.
The bike stage brought its fair share of challenges. Dan Morgan, full of birthday spirit, snapped his chain on lap two and had to freewheel back to base. Kelly Carmichael, down to just three working gears after a makeshift repair, ended up walking her bike up a hill.
All participants returned safely to the finish, where the final times were remarkably close to predictions.
Steve Snary missed his estimated time by just 44 seconds, followed by Matt Burgess who was 18 seconds off. But it was Kev Downer and Arielle Elton‑Waters who shared top honours, both finishing just 4 seconds off their targets.
The next local events are:
• Ryde Harriers Cross Country on Sunday (13th February) at Smallbrook Stadium
• The next Wight Tri event is expected to be a rescheduled Strawberry Pain, potentially on 1st March 2026
