With my first Triathlon coming up very soon, this was a late decision on my part to take part in the Summer midweek Chilly Duathlon at the Castle Combe race circuit. I had previously done a couple of these back in 2015, so knew how well they are organised, and I thought that it would be an ideal chance to practice the transition phase from bike to run needed for the triathlon.

As it was a late decision to take part, I was a day entry, and registration was simple and straight forward. Despite being held up on the motorway on my way to the circuit (arrived at the circuit 35mins before the scheduled start time), I had completed the form, handed over my money and got my timing chip and race number within 5 minutes of arriving. There was ample parking, despite there being a host of camper vans, tents and trucks already present for the upcoming weekends motorcycling events at the circuit.

Bike racked and ready to go, the race briefing was informative and fun, and we were ready to start the 1st run leg bang on time. Around 150 entries meant that the start line wasn't too crowded and there was no jostling as we set off on our first 2 mile run around the race circuit perimeter track. the route was a mix of grass, tarmac and gravel, with a few very short sharp inclines, but mostly flat.

On completion of run leg 1, we were directed back down the pit lane and into transition, which was well marshalled and controlled. there was water in cups available here, which was very welcome as it was a hot summers evening, and it was an additional top up to the drinks I carried on my bike. From Transition it was out onto the motor race circuit, for 5 laps of the smooth tarmac. With a mixture of ages, abilities and equipment on hand there was plenty of room for overtaking and safety was not a concern.

After the bike section, a sharp turn off the circuit took us back into transition for the final run leg around the same circuit as the 1st.

After finishing the race under the DB Max inflatable arch, name checked as you did, water was on hand again, together with the usual DB Max offferings of a large jelly sweet, and a selection of Eat Grub energy bars. Race results were immediatly available on the website and a print out of your splits was easy to obtain straight away

In summary, a great event for all abilities to take part in, friendly, well marshalled and well organised, a very enjoyable, although very hot evening!!