I’M writing this still feeling a little tired; and the backs of my legs still ache. But having compared notes with
Auto Express deputy motoring and digital editor and Business Car Manager road tester, Sam Hardy, I am not alone.
We both completed the Mazda London Triathlon – our first at this distance – on Saturday. There’s a 1500m swim in the Victoria Docks (just lovely); a 40km bike ride (which was really enjoyable); and a 10km run (into survival mode by then).
I just managed to pip Sam this time around – proving that experience sometimes can overcome youth! – but just missed out on my target of beating the three hour barrier. By 12 seconds…
Interestingly, I noticed former England and Lions rugby star Rory Underwood competing – he had his bike racked just up from me and Sam. I gather Rory was racing for Help for Heroes in his first ever Olympic distance tri, too.
A big thank you to Team Morton – Alison, Matt and Sarah – who provided all the necessary cheering at all the right moments. And to Mazda’s Graeme Fudge for entering Team Mazda with its assorted motoring journos in the event.
Now, if I can only just walk down the stairs…
First Olympic distance triathlon