National Aquathlon Championships return to Athlone this weekend

Athlone is set to welcome over 170 athletes from across Ireland this Sunday as the Triathlon Ireland National Championships Aquathlon returns to the town for a second successive year as part of the Athlone River Festival.

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural National Championships in Athlone, the event has continued to grow, attracting competitors from 24 triathlon clubs nationwide alongside independent athletes travelling from every corner of the country.

Hosted by Athlone Triathlon Club’s volunteer team, the Championships have become one of the club’s biggest undertakings, with months of planning involving local authorities, emergency services, sponsors and volunteers to deliver a safe and memorable National Championship experience.

Race Director Laura Kelly said the club is immensely proud to welcome the event back to Athlone.

“To host a National Championship once is a privilege, but to welcome athletes back for a second year is a feat of which we are incredibly proud. The event has grown again this year, and that’s a testament to the reputation Athlone has built as a destination for multi-sport," Laura said.

Athletes will take on a 750-metre swim in the River Shannon before tackling a three-lap run course through the heart of Athlone, finishing on the spectacular Mary O’Rourke pedestrian bridge, with Athlone Castle and the River Shannon providing one of the most iconic finish-line settings in Irish triathlon.

This year’s field brings together some of Ireland’s leading aquathlon athletes alongside many familiar faces returning to Athlone after last year’s event, first-time competitors taking on their very first multi-sport race, and an impressive 53 athletes from Athlone Triathlon Club proudly racing on home soil.

The continued growth of the sport is also reflected in this year’s entry list, with the Championships welcoming a record number of female athletes; a brilliant 55% of the participants represented in this category.

The event has also received tremendous backing from the local community, with businesses and organisations from across Athlone supporting the Championships through sponsorship, services and practical assistance.

“This event simply wouldn’t happen without the generosity of our sponsors, the support of our local agencies and, above all, our volunteers. Hundreds of volunteer hours have gone into preparing for Sunday, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped bring the National Championships back to Athlone," Laura added.

Spectators are encouraged to come along on Sunday morning to cheer on athletes throughout the course, with the finish on the Mary O’Rourke pedestrian bridge expected to provide a fantastic atmosphere as competitors complete their races in the heart of the Athlone River Festival.

“Whether you’re racing for a national title, chasing a personal best or crossing the finish line of your very first multisport event, we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Athlone. We look forward to seeing every athlete enjoy the experience and reach that iconic finish line on Sunday," Laura concluded.