This was my second race at Eton Dorney and my 1st Sprint there having done another Human Race tri last year but an Olympic Length one. 

Booking was straightforward and the cost was just under £75 including the booking fee. I thought this was a little high given that doesn't include a t-shirt any any sort of 'goodies' other than a free none alcholic beer at the end (very welcome). Nevertheless I paid it as it offers and nice early opportunity to get racing!

Getting to the venue is straightforward and they have ample parking although it is a 15 minute walk to the start from the car park. The venue itself is amazing and really lends itself to sprint distance - I found doing an Olympic there a little monotonous. The nature of the course means that spectators can see you easily in all three disciplines whilst enjoying excellent facilties in what is a really nice venue. The event village had the usual food stalls etc along with a few stands to buy last minute bits and pieces and event merch. It also had an ample number of toilets which makes a change as most events seem to grossly underestimate the need for these! 

Registration on the day was straightforward and well organised as was the transition zone which was well ordered and marshalled and had ample space. The race briefing was ok bar some pretty bad jokes about 'girls' doing there make-up or whatever - they were mildly irksome in what was a pretty friendly atmosphere in the ladies 30-34 wave. 

The swim was pleasant enough although they let us into the water too early so we were treading water for about 7 minutes before we finally went off in what was an almighty washing machine thanks to all having been pushed into the bank by the time 7 minutes elapsed! I enjoy a good group start so this didn't bother me too much but I'd advise anyone who isn't so keen to make sure to place themselves at the back. The swim route is an easy one to follow and the water quality excellent -well, it didn't tast too bad. Swim exit and t1 were fine - usual calamity of people trying to find bikes and flailing around to get wetsuits off. 

The spacing between waves and sensible numbers in each meant that the cycle start was painless and the nature of the course means you can get a move on pretty quick-ish. The course itself was 4 laps around the lake so its quick and flat but not overly inspiring; there is plenty of space for riders and  I never found myself without space to over take or be overtaken comfortably. The fact it is four laps SHOULD mean four photo opps (and chance for family to see you of course!). I have a major gripe with this in that, despite seeing a photographer on all 4 laps, no pics have been released after 11am which was BEFORE a lot of people have even started and neither Human Race of Awol Photography have had the good grace to get back to me. Very dissapointing. 

The run was and out and back route next to the lake which seemed to take an eternity, especailly the last 500m when I could swear the finish was moving away from me. 

At the end you are met by a fair sized crowd which is nice, a medal, some water and a none alcoholic beer for your efforts. The indoor changing rooms can be used (and have hot showers) which is nice afterwards. We may have hung around a bit longer had their been more food options but opted for a nice local pub instead. 

This is a good event but there are a few things which could make it a lot better and they need to sort out who they are using for photography. I'm not sure i'd do the 1h30 drive to do this event again but it's worth a crack for anyone close by and looking for an early season low pressure friendly event.