Chippenham Parkrun Take Over

28th February 2026
Chippenham Triathlon club turned out in force to support the local Chippenham Parkrun at Monkton Park. As the town's only triathlon club, members set up a meet-and-greet stand, volunteered, and hit the course in their signature orange and blue shirts. Club Chairman Lee Green praised the event, hoping to welcome new faces to the sport soon. Race Coordinator Paul Taylor was keen to promote our upcoming beginners and kids’ event. The Parkrun is free and takes place every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Monton Park, Chippenham.

Try a Tri This Spring: Chippenham Tri Mini Event!

Ever wondered what it’s like to take part in a triathlon? This spring, Chippenham Triathlon Club is inviting you to give it a go at the Chippenham Tri Mini Event – a fun, friendly and accessible introduction to one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports.

Taking place on Sunday 19 April 2026, the event is designed specifically for juniors aged 6+, complete beginners, families and anyone keen to try something new in a relaxed and supportive environment.

What’s involved?

The Mini Tri keeps things simple and achievable:

• Swim: 50m pool swim at Stonar School

• Bike: 5km off-road cycle around Stonar School

• Run: 1km off-road run to the finish

With short distances and a fully off-road bike and run course, it’s perfect for first-timers and younger athletes alike.

A welcoming, beginner-friendly experience

The day will start with a group briefing at Stonar School before heading to the pool for the swim. Club volunteers will be on hand throughout the event to guide participants, offer encouragement, and make sure everyone feels confident and supported from start to finish.

Whether you’re taking part solo, entering as a family, or cheering on your children, the focus is firmly on fun, participation and achievement rather than competition.

Event details at a glance

• Date: Sunday 19 April 2026

• Location: Stonar School, Cottles Park, Atworth, Melksham (SA12 8NT)

• Start time: 1400

• Finish time: Approx. 1700

• Entry fees:

  • Adults: £20

  • Family entry: £30

  • Kids (6+): £10

Why take part?

Triathlon isn’t just for elite athletes – it’s a sport for everyone. The Chippenham Tri Mini Event is a brilliant opportunity to:

• Try triathlon in a safe, low-pressure setting

• Build confidence and fitness

• Spend an active afternoon with family and friends

• Meet members of Chippenham Triathlon Club and learn more about local training opportunities

Many club members took part in their very first triathlon at events just like this – and haven’t looked back since.

How to enter

Places are limited, so early entry is recommended. Simply scan the QR code on the poster or visit:
www.britishtriathlon.org/events

Come and swim, bike, run – and discover just how fun triathlon can be. We can’t wait to welcome you to Chippenham Tri Mini 2026! 🏊‍♂️🚴‍♀️🏃‍♂️

2026 Club Championships Launched: More Inclusive, More Events, More Ways to Get Involved

The 2026 Championship schedule has officially been unveiled by Chippenham Triathlon Club. and it promises to be our most inclusive and engaging season yet.

Designed to encourage broader participation across the club, the updated Championship structure reflects what we’re all about: racing together, supporting each other, and making the experience just as rewarding for first timers as it is for seasoned competitors.

What’s New for 2026?

This year brings several exciting changes aimed at opening the door to more members and increasing overall engagement throughout the season.

Fewer Qualifying Triathlon Events

We’ve reduced the number of qualifying triathlon events. This makes the Championship more accessible to members juggling work, family and training commitments, while still rewarding consistent participation.

Age-Group Points System

For the triathlon events, we’re introducing age-group based points. This ensures fairer competition across the membership and recognises performance relative to your peers, not just overall finishing position.

Swim, Bike & Run Events Added

Triathlon is our foundation, but not everyone races all three disciplines all the time. In 2026, standalone swim, bike and run events will contribute to the Championship. This gives more members the chance to score points and play to their strengths.

Whether you’re strongest in the water, thrive on two wheels, or love chasing a PB on foot, there’s now more opportunity to get involved.

Bonus Points for Club Takeover

One of the highlights of the year will be our club takeover of Chippenham Parkrun. Members who take part — whether running, pacing, marshalling or supporting, will earn bonus Championship points.

It’s a fantastic way to showcase the club locally, give back to the community, and enjoy the buzz of racing (or volunteering) together in club colours.

More Than Just Points

While competition adds excitement, the Championships are not just about those at the sharp end of the results sheet.

They’re about:

• Experiencing race day together
• Supporting teammates across finish lines
• Sharing lifts, coffees and post-race stories
• Encouraging newer members to step outside their comfort zone

When we turn up as a club, it changes the atmosphere entirely. It makes events more memorable, more motivating and (most importantly) more fun.

A Season to Look Forward To

The full Championship schedule outlines the selected events across triathlon, swimming, cycling and running. Some final details are still being confirmed as we work with event organisers, but the calendar already promises a varied and exciting season.

With a structure that rewards participation, consistency and community spirit, 2026 is shaping up to be one of our strongest Championship years yet.

If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe I’ll give it a go this year,” this is your moment.

Join us on the start line. Represent the club. Be part of something bigger.

2026 is going to be a great one.

🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️ Championship Triathlon Events

The main qualifying triathlons include:

• Oldbury White Horse Sprint Triathlon (Pool Sprint – Calne)
• 51Fiver Standard Distance Triathlon (Lake 32, Cotswolds)
• Titan Brecon Middle Distance Triathlon (Parc Bryn Bach)
• Bowood House Sprint Triathlon (Bowood)
• ATW Bristol Standard Distance Triathlon (Bristol Harbour)
• New Forest Middle Distance Triathlon (Ellingham)
• Lake 62 Evening Sprint Series (Cotswolds)

Distances range from Sprint through Standard to Middle Distance, with a mix of pool and open-water swims.

🏊 Standalone Swim Event

• Lake 62 Swim Festival – 1900m (Cotswolds)

This is the dedicated individual swim championship event.

🚴 Standalone Bike Event

• Chippenham Wheelers 10 Mile Time Trial Series
  (Multiple Wednesdays, details TBC)

This will serve as the individual cycling championship opportunity.

🏃 Standalone Run Event

• Chippenham Harriers Lacock Relays (May–August, dates TBC)

Relay-based format in Lacock.

🎉 Club & Bonus Events

• Chippenham Parkrun Club Takeover (Monkton Park – February 28^th 2026)
  → Bonus points for participation
• National Club Relays (Nottingham)
  → 5 Championship points
• Triathlon Debut
  → 5 Bonus points for completing your first ever triathlon
• Long Distance / Ironman Completion
  → 5 Bonus points

Christmas Eve Social Run at Castle Combe 🎄🏃‍♂️

24th December 2025

Chippenham Tri Club continued the festive season with the annual Castle Combe Christmas Eve Social Run, joining runners from Chippenham Harriers and Corsham Run Club for a sociable off-road loop around the Castle Combe trails.

With temperatures hovering between 3°C and 6°C, it was a crisp and wintry morning for the approximately 6-mile route. While some runners were well wrapped up for the cold conditions, others perhaps discovered a little too late that their festive optimism outweighed their layering strategy.

Despite the chill, spirits were high as the mixed group set off together, enjoying good company and seasonal cheer in classic Christmas Eve style. Chippenham Tri Club soon ran away from the Chippenham Harriers and led the group home, completing the loop in 1 hour 4 minutes. Paul’s dog ensured the pace stayed honest, enthusiastically dragging him along for much of the route.

Although festive cake and mince pies were waiting at the finish, none of the tri team stayed for the treats, instead heading off to continue their Christmas Eve plans.

The run also marked a notable milestone, with Nie completing their 2000th kilometre of the year, a fitting way to close out a strong year of training.

A cold but thoroughly enjoyable way to finish the year, the Castle Combe Christmas Eve Run remains a festive favourite on the club calendar.

Paul Taylor Takes on Challenge Almere: A Tough Day on a “Fast” Course

29 Sep 2025

Chippenham triathlete Paul Taylor took on the legendary Challenge Almere last weekend, a full-distance triathlon billed as one of Europe’s flattest and fastest. The race featured a 2.4-mile swim, 122-mile bike, and a full marathon, which Paul completed in a commendable time of 12 hours, 17 minutes, and 38 seconds.

Despite the course’s reputation, Paul found the conditions more challenging than expected. “The swim went well, and the bike leg was solid,” he reported, “but the run was sluggish, and I felt every mile.” His Garmin recorded over 600m of elevation on the bike—far more than the advertised 200m—while strong winds added an extra layer of difficulty to both the bike and run segments. “I’ve now come to realise I’m too old and too slow,” Paul joked, reflecting on the day with a mix of humour and honesty. Though disappointed with his time, he was glad to cross the finish line in one piece.

While the event was well-organised—as expected from the Challenge Family—Paul noted that the atmosphere was lacking in parts, especially during the bike and run. Still, he recommends it as a solid option for athletes looking to race abroad.

Well done, Paul, for pushing through and representing the club with determination and grit!

🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️ Escaping the British Weather: Paul Grabowski & Steve Ferris Conquer IM Italy

26 Sep 2025

While most of us were braving the unpredictable British drizzle last weekend, club members Paul Grabowski and Steve Ferris were chasing the sun—and the finish line—at Ironman Italy.

In the days leading up to the race, nerves were high as forecasts hinted at potentially rough seas. But come race day, the sea gods smiled, offering calm waters and ideal conditions for the swim leg of the triathlon.

Paul delivered yet another stellar performance, crossing the finish line in an impressive 10 hours and 17 minutes. Not far behind, Steve showed true grit and determination, completing the race in 13 hours and 41 minutes.

Their achievements are a testament to months of hard training and dedication. Congratulations to both athletes for representing the club with pride and for proving that sometimes, a little sunshine—and a lot of perseverance—goes a long way.

Well done, Paul and Steve! 🌟

Pezzer Races to Podium Finish at Cotswold Big Swim, whilst prepping for Half Marathon

7 Sep 2025

Pezzer had a busy and successful weekend of racing, taking on two events across two days. On Saturday, he competed in the Cotswold Big Swim, choosing the 750m distance to complete a double medal set from June’s race. Despite the shorter swim, he delivered an impressive performance, finishing 16th overall, 2nd among male competitors, and 1st in his age category with a time of 14:11. A trophy for his second-place finish is in the post.

On Sunday, Pezzer switched disciplines for the Compton Bassett 5 Mile Road Race, clocking 33:04 to place 34th overall and 18th in his age category. The run served as his final tune-up before the upcoming Chippenham Half Marathon, he with be focusing on controlled pacing and race strategy.

“Not getting any younger,” he joked, “so it’s all about smart preparation now.”

Strong Performances at the Chippenham Half Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️💪

26 Sep 2025

A few of our club members took on the Chippenham Half Marathon this weekend, and we’re proud to report some fantastic results! Shoutout to Nie, Cameron, Rachel, Jamie, Pez, Rhiannon, and Dom — with Nie leading the team home in style.

A huge thank you also goes to our amazing Tristars, who manned the water station at East Tytherton. Their energy and encouragement provided a much-needed boost right at the halfway point — brilliant support from our youngest stars!

Well done to everyone who ran, volunteered, and cheered. What a great day for the club!

Chippenham Tri Celebrates Podium Sweep at Lake 62 Evening Series Finale

23 Aug 2025

The final race of the Lake 62 Evening Series took place on Wednesday evening, marking the end of a successful summer of competition for Chippenham Tri. With strong attendance throughout the series, the event has become a staple in the club’s calendar and a key part of the Club Championships. Results for the Lake 62 competition will be announced soon by Kevin, adding to the anticipation.

Chippenham

Tri athletes delivered a standout performance in the series finale, securing podium finishes across all categories. Paul Graboski claimed 1st place overall male in the Triathlon, showcasing his consistency and strength across all disciplines. Rhiannon Loveman followed with an impressive 2nd place overall female finish in the Triathlon, rounding off a strong season.

In the Aqua Bike category, Belinda Stephenson took 1st place overall female, while her partner Tom matched her achievement by finishing 1st overall male. Their double victory highlighted the depth of talent within the club and capped off a memorable evening of racing.

Congratulations to all Chippenham Tri members who competed and contributed to the success of the Lake 62 series. The club continues to thrive with strong performances and community spirit.

Nevada and Paul Shine at London T100 Amidst Star-Studded Field

23 Aug 2025

The streets of London came alive with energy and elite athleticism as Nevada and Paul took on the iconic London T100 triathlon, delivering impressive performances on a course that wound through the heart of the capital.

With Olympic champion Adam Peaty and other celebrities in attendance, the event was a spectacle of endurance and determination. Interestingly, many spectators noted that the age group course—unlike the professional route the day before—offered a far more scenic experience, showcasing London’s historic landmarks rather than the industrial outskirts.

Nevada powered through the course with a strong finish time of 4 hours and 33 minutes, while Paul crossed the line in 5 hours and 9 minutes, despite a dramatic mid-race incident. During the swim leg, Paul collided head-first with another competitor after diving in for his second lap. The clash left him momentarily dazed, but he showed remarkable resilience by continuing on and completing the race.

Both athletes demonstrated grit and sportsmanship in what was a memorable day of racing. Congratulations to Nevada and Paul for their outstanding efforts on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.

Braving the Storm: Titan Brecon Challengers Conquer Torrential Rain

Brecon Beacons, Wales — This past weekend, a handful of determined adventurers faced down nature’s fury in the formidable Titan Brecon challenge. With torrential rain hammering the hills and fierce winds threatening to sweep them off the mountain, the conditions were nothing short of brutal.

Despite the relentless weather, Lynsey Carpenter, Christine Mardle, Neil Lewis, and Martin Riddell pressed on, embodying true grit and resilience. Battling through sheets of rain and gusts that tested every step, they completed the arduous event with unwavering determination.

“It felt like the mountain wanted to throw us off,” one participant said. “But we held our ground. We survived.”

The Titan Brecon is known for its demanding terrain and unpredictable weather, but this weekend’s conditions pushed even seasoned athletes to their limits. The achievement of these brave souls stands as a testament to human endurance and camaraderie in the face of adversity.