One of the biggest triathlon challenges in the UK is now even bigger, with three new events added to the Hever Castle Bastion iron-distance triathlon event, set for the 10^th July 2016, including the extremely popular Gauntlet race.

Whilst The Bastion challenge remains the ultimate long-distance experience in the UK, it will be joined on the triathlon calendar by the now bi-annual Gauntlet Half-Iron Triathlon (already one of the most popular long distance events in its September edition), the Hever Long Swims and the Hever Long Aquabike. The aquabike and open water swim events providing the definitive long course supported training experience, as well as being competitive races in their own right, with all the atmosphere of a major triathlon running at the same time.

Race Director Brian Adcock said:

‘Adding more race to enter and a second Hever Castle Gauntlet is a natural extension to The Bastion and our activity at this event. The Gauntlet distance has grown in popularity, more than doubling in numbers since it was launched and as such, we wanted to give triathletes a second event in a year at the same location, to take on this unforgettable challenge.

The event itself offers a great spectator atmosphere with The Bastion race occurring concurrently, so Gauntlet competitors can also soak this up. All athletes have the opportunity to finish right by the historic Hever Castle.”

The full list of races which can now be entered include:

The Hever Half-Iron Gauntlet (1.9km/90km/21km)

The Gauntlet returns to Hever Castle! The 1.9km swim is a single loop taking in the main Hever Castle lake and a tributary of the River Eden. The 90km cycle (2 loop course) winds its way through the stunning High Weald of Kent and the Ashdown Forest. The 21km run course (2 loops of 10.5km), follows largely off-road tracks and bridle paths between Hever Castle, through the historic local village of Chiddingstone, and the grounds of Chiddingstone Castle itself.

 The Hever Long Distance Swim (1.9km or 3.8km)

The swim course leaves from the Italianate loggia taking competitors down the length of the main lake and heading into the scenic river section.This tributary of the River Eden wraps around 16 Acre Island allowing spectators to watch and cheer competitors on from only a few metres away.

The Hever Long Distance Aquabike (1.9km swim / 60km cycle or 3.8km swim / 120km cycle)

After the unique swim you’ll head out on the fully marshalled and signed bike course with supported feed stations. This circular cycle route will take competitors out of Hever Castle, up through the High Weald of Kent before passing through and over the Ashdown Forest and into the village of Maresfield.  After a quick tour of the village competitors retrace their steps to the top of the forest before returning to Hever via the historic and quintessentially English villages of Groombridge, Fordcombe and Penshurst.  Finishers have the option of finishing with a gentle 4K run that circumnavigates the lake and stunning grounds of the Hever Castle estate.

The Hever Long Distance Aquathlon (1.9km swim / 10km run or 3.8km swim / 21km run)

After the unique swim (1 or 2 loops), competitors will embark on the 10k/21km run course, which follows largely off road tracks and bridle paths between Hever Castle, through the historic local village of Chiddingstone, and the grounds of Chiddingstone Castle itself before finishing right in front of the Castle.

All the events, including The Bastion iron-distance triathlon, are now open for entry with an early bird 25% discount, with race places limited for 2016.  Enter here.

Or find out more information here: http://www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk/races/the-bastion-full-iron-distance/

An amazing, unforgettable experience

Athletes are treated to an amazing event village to top off the whole experience, with live bands playing throughout the day, a climbing wall, archery, catering, bike support and more. You’ll cross the finish line in front of Hever Castle with a wonderful medal, T-shirt and memories that will last a lifetime.

ENDS

For further information or if you or a colleague would like a media place in the race please contact:

E: [email protected]

T: 01892 870681 / M: 07790 001959

Notes to editors:

The Bastion is part of the Castle Triathlon Series, festival events for all levels from a 7 year old, to 70 year old, a first timer to the elite at five beautiful castles around Europe.

– Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon 24th May 2015

– Cholmondeley Castle Triathlon 28th June 2015

– The Bastion at Hever Castle 12th July 2015

– Castle Howard Triathlon 25th and 26th July 2015

– Château de Chantilly Triathlon 29th and 30th August 2015

– Hever Castle Triathlon 26th and 27th September 2015