Northumberland will be the setting for a new ultra triathlon in 2022, challenging competitors to complete 140.6 miles of swimming, cycling and running. Kielder Waterside will host The Northumbrian next June, in an event that is billed as the ‘ultimate triathlon’. The name has been chosen to evoke the qualities that the county of Northumberland and its residents represent.
The Northumbrian is being organised by Events of the North with support from Northumbrian Water. The event will take place on Sunday 19 June and will include individual and team races at both the full ultra triathlon distance of 140.6 miles and half distance of 70.3 miles.
Kielder Water will be the venue for the swim section while the roads of the Kielder Valley and the Borders will host the bike route. The run will follow the trails of the iconic Kielder Marathon in the forests around Kielder Water.
The Northumbrian is expected to attract competitors from around the UK and overseas. Organisers hope that the combination of the endurance test and the inspiring, challenging setting will quickly establish the event as a new classic.
Former elite athlete Steve Cram is director of organisers Events of The North and is convinced that The Northumbrian will live up to its name. He said, “I’m very lucky to live and work in Northumberland and we wanted to create an event that epitomises everything we associate with the area.
“It’s stunning and spectacular and at the same time gives people a beautiful backdrop to bring out the best in themselves. This will challenge and inspire and I’m full of admiration for those who choose to tackle this ultimate triathlon.”
Kielder Waterside already hosts the annual Kielder Marathon weekend and the addition of an ultra triathlon is a major bonus to the growing list of events held in the area.
Cram added, “Ultra events are growing in popularity around the world and we know that we need to provide a unique experience, particularly for those travelling to Kielder for the first time. The Northumbrian will have a look and feel to add to what we hope will be an unforgettable event, both physically and emotionally.”
The Northumbrian will be held in mid-June to maximise daylight hours but there will be a time limit of 17 hours and 45 mins to complete the full distance race. Entries for the event will be limited in the inaugural year and have now opened, with potential participants also being offered the option of the half distance of 70.3 miles. As well as the individual races, there will be a three-person team event over both distances.
The first 50 entrants will receive a special Northumbrian branded bobble hat and £25 off the entry fee, and the next 50 will also receive the hat. Everyone who enters the full or half event will receive
- The Northumbrian 2XU cycling jersey
- swim cap
- electronic chip timing during the event
- on-course support and nutrition
- medal and finisher’s goody bag
- transport to and from the on-site car parks
Traynor On The Trail 