Hooray for the first race since CV-19 struck! ATW did a great job in ensuring this event met all the necessary safety criteria> But above all it was great to be participating in a real race. Even though it was a small event, it was fantastic to see people there of all abilities, from first timers to pros.Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, while of course maintaining social distancing!

I think they must of broken a record for the most plays of the Neil Diamond classsic at a public gathering!

The first UK Licenced event since lock down made this event unique in itself. I feared with all the necessary covid related restrictions in place  it could all fall a bit 'flat' but the ATW team  made it feel like a really buzzing event as well as feeling really safe. The pre event briefing on video was a great idea, as were wristbands to show that health questionnaire had been completed prior to entering event village. Event music was a fun touch   ( Police: Don't Stand too Close to me ,   The  Beatles: I Wanna Hold Your Hand etc etc!)  Swim start was seamless, walked to transition by lake in small  socially distanced groups before entering lake at 30 sec intervals. This lake is a real beauty. The first   2 k of the run is round the lake and is pretty, the last 3 k on playing fields so less attractive and a bit of a challenge with the head wind....but then wind behind you felt good. Really very well marked all round with cones and the  cheery marshals made up for the lack of crowd...spectators were necessarily discouraged due to covid safety.  Nice to finish on a proper running track . No need for medals / t shirts for this one ( although one first timer I spoke to was thrilled to have the swim hat provided as a momento)   ... being part of this event was special after the awful few months events companies have had, ATW got this event organised in record time so huge applause for them. 

Hooray....an event that's not virtual! Really well organised (complete with a clear on line race briefing emailed/ on social media prior to event), socially distanced (swimmers set off at 30sec intervals in speed order , cones 2m apart to mark our kit in T1, large area for pre/post event), friendly and encouraging Marshals and event staff, range of competitor abilities, lovely location and post race results available promptly...plus cake and coffee on sale - and the rain held off until the end! Safety maintained while still having a relaxed atmosphere. Well done and thanks ATW!