15 Wight Tri members battled fog, driving rain and strong winds to complete Sunday’s Strawberry Pain Duathlon across Brighstone Downs and West Wight roads.
The latest Strawberry Pain Duathlon took place on Sunday (1st March) in testing weather conditions that forced organisers into a late course change.
Heavy fog, gusting winds and persistent rain prompted Kev Winchcombe and Neil Cooper to implement a revised format, reducing the bike leg to a single lap and adjusting the run route to avoid unsafe sections.
Competitors tackled either 3.9km or 5.8km on foot over the demanding terrain of Brighstone Downs, with sustained climbs making for a punishing opening leg in slippery conditions.
The 10.9km bike route then took riders through Calbourne, Chessel and past Mottistone Manor before the notorious Strawberry Lane climb, which once again proved decisive.
Despite the weather, competition at the sharp end was tight, with the top three in the nominated time standings separated by seconds.
Adam Edwards finished third, 23 seconds from his nominated time, with Claire Squirrell second at 22 seconds off. David Squirrell claimed top spot, just 2 seconds from his predicted mark.
Organisers thanked volunteers Neil Cooper, Mike Kimber, Kevin Winchcombe, Arielle Elton-Waters, Paula Griffiths, Steve and Anne Dines for ensuring the event ran safely despite the conditions.
The final Strawberry Pain Duathlon date and venue will be announced in due course.
