my second time at this event and have only done three duathlons in total so I am definitely in the novice category. This event does not disappoint. Saturday registration the day before is encouraged at the brewery in ludlow and takes the pressure off in the morning so just the matter of timing chip collection on race day. The 10KM run is challenging, with two climbs up the lactic ladder and also "the Wall" up Dinham hill. offering a mix of trail and road running, the lapped figure of 8 route around Ludlow sees super support locally on the bridge. Transition is at the Rugby club and then the bike route sees more hills with Fiddlers Elbow and later on Whitcliffe. Its a great route - not on closed roads with some enjoyable downhill bits! The final run is now shorter this year but still 2 more climbs up the ladder. The revised route worked well and was better to just storm up to the castle to the finish. Again huge support in the castle and lots going on for supporters. Medal and Tshirts are cool. the local cakes and pies at the end looked amazing. I am far from chasing podiums, its fair to say this is well supported by those that are with some amazing times but rest assured back of pack athletes are made to feel just as welcome. Ability to download free official photos from the race was an added benefit this year.