first time I’ve done this race as i had heard good things about it, it’s held at edge hill university campus in the new sports centre, it’s a great clean up to date venue.

as it’s pool swim you set off in waves, the pool is great for spectators as they can watch from 3

sides.

its a small run out onto the all weather pitch for t1 all good underfoot though

bike course is 3 laps of a very quiet course 90 of the roads are really smooth it’s a cracking speedy course

the run is 5 k around the campus which although is quite twisty and turny flows quite well, was very surprised how nice the campus is landscaping is great which gives a good run route 

it’s run 2 times a year it’s got everything really fantastic for first timers wanting to test themselves on their firs tri but also great for people wanting a quick race 

This was my second time at this event and yet again it didn't disappoint.

Easy and friendly registration, a large transition area and good ride and run routes.

Being a slow swimmer I was an early starter but there was already a buzz about the event as many competitors brought family and friends to support.

The pool is great and after the safety briefing I had a good swim and headed to transition. Now it is worth noting that it is a bit of trek to transition from the pool but it's manageable bare-foot, bit you can leave shoes at the exit to the pool if you want.

Transition is large and I had plenty of room. Quickly into the helmet and bike shoes and off I went for the bike leg. Three laps of a pleasant and well signed course later and I was back for the final transition.

After dismounting the bike it's another long jog to your transition spot but not too difficult. Bike shoes off and trainers on I set off on the run.

The run route is very twisty to begin with but its nice enough through the university grounds. The finish on the athletics track is great and there was lots of support.

This is a great Triathlon for both beginners or more experienced triathletes.

This was my first time at this event and I was looking forward to it. I wasn't disappointed.

On arrival, the registration was easy to find and the staff manning it were friendly and helpful. Transition was also well signposted and the rack space was good.

All set up in transition I made my to the pool and listened to the race briefing, this was clear and concise. Lined up at my swim lane the marshals were cheery and the communication was excellent. 3..2..1 off you go Ian. 16 uncrowded lengths later and the swim leg was done. Top marks for the pool and the organisation here.

The distance from the pool to T1 is a bit of a trek and running barefoot on brick and concrete paths wasn't the most comfortable but not too bad, Transition went smoothly and there was another rather long trek to the mount line; running in cycling shoes is not my favourite thing.

The bike route is 3 laps around some bumpy but scenic country lanes and is pretty flat for the most part. There were a few scattered supporters and lots of friendly exchanges between fellow competitors and marshals. This is a great cycle route. After the third lap I returned to T2 and another bit of a run to the rack before pulling on the running shoes.

Out of T2 and on to the twisting, turning and not entirely flat run route. One big loop and no laps to do this was quite a fun run route and the finish being one lap of the University running track is fabulous way to complete the event.

The West Lancashire Triathlon is a superb event and is suitable for beginners and seasoned vets. I enjoyed every minute and the marshals were among the nicest I've come across.