If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to go swimming in your running shoes and running in your wetsuit… well, that’s exactly what eight brave Ashford Tri Club members did today at Bewl Water. And do you know what? It was brilliant.
On a sunny, warm September day, the club took part in the SwimRun Bewl Water event — a race where you alternate between swimming and running, with no transitions, no faffing, just straight-up fun in the water and on the trails.
Who Did What?
- 6K SwimRun – Three of our crew took on the shorter challenge, dipping in and out of the water with smiles (and slightly soggy trainers).
- 10K SwimRun – The other five decided they hadn’t worn their wetsuits enough this summer and stretched it out over the longer course.
- 21K SwimRun – Nobody from Ashford was daft enough to attempt the big one this time. (There’s always next year, right?)
The Vibe
Forget about pressure, podiums and points — this was a target event for the club, but the target wasn’t medals. It was about trying something different, being out in the sunshine, and having a laugh together. The atmosphere around Bewl was relaxed, fun, and welcoming, with plenty of camaraderie between athletes.
That said, we do have to give a special nod to Lee, who managed to bag himself 4th in his category. No podium this time, and he’s kicking himself for letting what turned out to be 3rd place go on the last hill, so he could get a decent finish photo.
Also, shout out to Navin, who proved that old adage that “It’s all fun and games until someone loses a finger” after managing to find the sharpest boulder in Kent just under the surface of the first swim entry. Awful luck, but massive respect to Navin, he didn’t let it dampen his spirits (pun intended).
What’s Next?
This was the last Target event of the year. But fear not, the last Championship event is still ahead of us. Closer to home this time; the Givaudan Ashford 10k winds its way around Ashford’s closed roads for the season finale.
So if you’re a club member thinking, “That sounds fun (and a bit mad)” — it absolutely is. And if you’re new to the sport and looking for a friendly group to try this kind of event with… well, you’ve found us.
