Meet Your 2025 VTC Committee

Chairman & Membership Secretary: Carl Britton

Carl first joined Viceroys in 2014 when he moved to Walton initially to take advantage of the cycling membership and to meet new people. This led to a full membership and Carl is now a regular at the Friday night track session and can often be seen splashing around with the Development group in the lake swims.

Carl comes from a background in mountain bike racing as a youth, loves any outdoor activities and has competed in a variety of multi discipline adventure races. Each year Carl signs up to a new endurance challenge to maintain his focus and commitment to keeping fit. This usually involves trying something new and outside of his comfort zone!!

Chairman: Carl Britton

“I am very proud to be the Chairman of this fantastic club and I am looking forward to supporting the new Committee in taking the club forward to even higher levels of success. Previously, the club and its members inspired me to confront my fears of open water swimming and supported me in my goal to get around my Ironman swim leg in one piece! One of my passions is to use my experience to help others with their sporting goals.”

Recent events include:
– Ironman (Full) UK, Bolton
– UCI Gravel World Championships, Veneto, Italy
– 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs completion
– Thames Path Challenge 100km Ultra Running Race, Putney Bridge to Henley
– The Bull Ring 200, Birmingham
This year’s challenges:
– The Bee Line 200, Manchester
– Everest Challenge, 8,848m Climb, Peak District
– British Gravel Championships, Dalby Forest

Vice Chairman: Nick Christian

Nick has loved anything on two wheels since he threw his stabilisers away at the age of four.

That includes racing motorbikes back in the 90s before turning back to mountain biking.
Nick turned to road riding in 2014 and joined Viceroys Triathlon Club the same year.

Vice Chairman: Nick Christian

Nick loves riding, quite enjoys swimming . . . . . . . hates running!

As far as he is concerned, it’s all about having fun with like-minded people. And if that helps you with your training plan, even better!
Can often be heard saying, “This hill doesn’t count.”

Club Secretary: Iain Gill

Iain is a lifelong runner who joined the Club in 2021 and has enjoyed learning to swim and road race with the Viceroys. He is most likely to be found at the track, Tuesday evening rides and coached swim sessions.

Iain is currently recovering from a shoulder injury but hoping to be swimming again when the lake opens and do a few races at the end of the season after a curtailed 2024.

Club Secretary: Iain Gill

Head BTF Coach: Ralph Hydes (BTF Level 3 High Performance)

Ralph Hydes is a BTF Level 3 high performance coach and has been coaching athletes of all abilities from total novice to Age Group internationals since 2000.  Ralph is also an Ironman University certified coach.  He has been the head coach at Thames Turbo Triathlon Club for the past 7 years and head swim coach at Wimbledon Windmilers. 

Having worked with juniors from 8 years old through to seniors in their 70’s, Ralph carefully considers the needs of everyone to get the most out of their performances whatever their goals and abilities. 

Head BTF Coach: Ralph Hydes (BTF Level 3 High Performance)

He has trained over 25 individuals to represent their age groups at World Championships, two of which became World Champions, another to be European Champion, 3 Kona qualifiers, 2 UTMB qualifiers, multiple Ironman finishers as well as helping hundreds of others fulfil their goals from 5K’s to marathons and triathlons.

He has represented Great Britain himself at 8 World Championships. In 2006 Ralph came 7th in the World Duathlon Championships for his age group.  He has completed 2 Ironman events, 5 Ironman 70.3 events, 12 Etapes, a channel relay and multiple sportives.

Ralph’s philosophy is to help get the best out of his athletes using nutrition, strength and conditioning, as well as unique training techniques to become the best you can be with the time you have available to train.

Treasurer: Sylwia Milkowska

Joined Viceroys in 2018 with a secret ambition to complete Ironman.
Even though Sylwia had not owned or ridden a road bike prior to joining, she enjoyed tootling along on a hybrid and even bikepacking to Poland one year. Swimming has always been something to endure rather than enjoy having learned the stroke only in adulthood. It’s the running that has been her go to exercise throughout the years.

“Things have definitely changed since joining the club! I have become an Ironwoman by completing Ironman UK in Bolton (and qualifying to race in world champs in Kona) and I’m one of 4 women to ride all ‘100 Greatest Cycling Climbs’.”

Treasurer: Sylwia Milkowska

“But, above all I love training. Health and fitness are my passion. I believe that exercise is the best therapy. And even though I don’t particularly enjoy competing in races, I always like to be fit and ready to do one spontaneously when I want to.”

Social Secretary: Marit Sõrmus

Marit joined Viceroys in 2019 when her friend, whose husband was part of the club, thought she would enjoy triathlon, even though she didn’t own a road bike and hadn’t swam properly for a long time.

“Fast forward to 2025, it’s fair to say I’m an adrenaline junky who is always up for an adventure, the longer and more challenging the better. Enjoy pushing myself and other Pinks to see how far we can go, while having that fantastic type 2 kind of fun!”

Social Secretary: Marit Sõrmus

Social Secretary: Gary Parker-Ticehurst

My dad, who’s also a Viceroy, was my inspiration for starting multi sport. I started running just after lockdown with the ‘Couch to 5k’ app, this was then followed by a charity challenge of running 100 miles in a month. Following this I took the plunge and bought my first road bike and ended up completing my first duathlon.

I then joined Viceroys with my husband Clint Parker-Ticehurst in March 2023. The Viceroys are a great bunch of people and I enjoy both the training and social side of the club. I have progressed so much since joining and have competed in many events.

Social Secretary: Gary Parker-Ticehurst

Social Media: Lucy Hoseason

Lucy started triathlon when she was 9 years old after doing an aquathlon. Soon after she joined a junior triathlon club until she was around 16.

“I then went on to join Viceroys in 2020 just before lockdown and have been a member ever since! My biggest triathlon achievement has got to be my gold medal in 2022 at Age Group World Championships in Canada!”

Social Media: Lucy Hoseason

Social Media: Sam Holloway

Sam has always been passionate about sports, starting as a swimmer in his childhood and teenage years. Started triathlon in 2017, and took a step up in 2022 when he joined Viceroys, aiming to elevate his training and find like-minded individuals to train alongside.

Since then, he has competed in one European and two World Age Group Championships, his proudest achievement however being the reigning Viceroys Club Champion. 😁

His goals are to continue racing at the pointy end whenever possible but now also exploring new challenges and longer distances.

Social Media: Sam Holloway

Social Media: Clint Parker-Ticehurst

I joined Viceroys in March 2023 with my husband Gary Parker-Ticehurst. I have not been training in multi sports or competing in triathlons for very long, but have attended many events since; from Super Sprints to Half Ironmans.

I’m very lucky to travel with my job, which opens up opportunities to participate in events all across the globe. The Pinks are a fantastic bunch of people and I feel I have improved so much since joining. I am never going to win any races but I am determined to be the best I can be.

Social Media: Clint Parker-Ticehurst

Kit Officer: Carla Gilbey

Wowsers – I joined Viceroys now nearly 15 orbits of the sun, this is my second time around being invited to be part of the Clubs Committee (prior to which I was membership secretary) and now supporting the members with Viceroys Jazzy Kit.
 
I’ve always been a bit of an adrenalin junky and will try almost anything. Genuinely tripped up on Triathlon through my love of running and took up the challenge to raise funds for two friends of mine who lost their babies to Cancer, at the same time it was an opportunity for me personally to overcome my fear of open water swimming (it’s still very much my nemesis!).
 
I love the sport as I’ve come to meet some amazing athletes in all disciplines, and I hope to meet many more 🩷

Kit Officer: Carla Gilbey

Viceroys Triathlon Club AGM 2025

Viceroys Triathlon Club AGM 2025

Date & Time: 2025-03-06 19:08:31
Location: The Anglers

Welcome and Introduction

  • The meeting commenced with a welcome to attendees, highlighting the excitement of the AGM 2025.
  • The old committee is running the session, with the new committee to be announced at the end to maintain engagement.

Agenda Overview

  • The agenda includes key member updates, activities, kit and merchandise discussions, and the announcement of the new committee.
  • Voting for the new committee members has been introduced this year, replacing the previous method of raising hands.

Chair’s update

  • The club experienced significant changes with new committee members, chairman, and coach.
  • The committee’s efforts have been commendable, leading to increased membership and engagement.
  • The chair expressed gratitude for the hard work of the committee, which made their role easier.
  • The introduction of voting was well-received and considered more effective than the previous method.

Secretary’s update

  • Club insurance covers only club-organized activities and members are encouraged to obtain British Triathlon membership for individual coverage, starting at £33.
  • A governance paper has been developed to clarify roles within the club, though it is not yet finalized.
  • The new committee is expected to advance this document.

Treasurer’s update

  • The club’s income from subscriptions was £13.7k, with expenditures at £12k, resulting in a surplus.
  • The surplus will be allocated to additional coaching and sessions.
  • Major expenses include coaching (£4.8k) and lake swims (£4k).
  • Other expenses cover memberships to British Triathlon and British Cycling, swim caps, membership cards, and yearly end of season party catering expenses.
  • Part of the budget will cover year-round track activities, with potential leftover funds used for club kits and shared costs for events.
  • The club is in a strong financial position, with income covering year-round track use. Maintaining a financial buffer is essential for unforeseen expenses.
VTC AGM Accounts

Membership Update

  • Membership currently stands at 130, which is an increase from the previous year despite some attrition.
  • The club currently has 26% female members, a slight decrease from 28% last year.
  • There is a higher percentage of full members compared to cycling-only members.
  • Different membership categories include full members, lifetime members, overseas members, and students, with varying fees.
  • The club aims to reach a financial breakeven point, which has increased from 10K to 12.5K.

Club events update

  • Last year the magic number for participants taking part in club organised events was 20 and this year we would like to see more people join in and take part in club activities.
  • Winter Challenge and Halloween cycle were popular and well-attended, with participants enjoying themed activities.
  • A new proposal for bi-monthly social evenings to foster community outside of athletic activities. 
  • Lake swims aim to start in May, pending confirmation from the lake.
  • All 2025 events are in the events calendar on the app.
  • Important to schedule key events like relays and club championships early to allow members to secure entry tickets.
  • All events are listed in the calendar. Suggestions and feedback, especially regarding the Winter Challenge, are encouraged.
  • Acknowledgment of the hard work by the Winter Challenge organizers, which was well-received and motivated participation during the winter months.

Marketing update

  • Participants are encouraged to tag Viceroy’s in social media posts to facilitate sharing and increase engagement.
  • Race reports, even short ones, are popular and receive significant engagement. Members are encouraged to contribute without needing reminders.
  • Social media activities have led to increased interest and membership inquiries.
  • Discount codes and race invitations are shared via the app, contributing to membership growth.
  • A team of three will manage marketing and social activities moving forward.

Club organised activities

Club-organized activities are paid coaching activities and one weekend lake free swim:

  • Monday Evening Swim Training: Starts in May, pending confirmation from Emma and the crew.
  • Friday Track Sessions: Now held year-round at 6 PM, despite some scheduling conflicts.
  • Weekend Free Swim: Available once per weekend, resuming with Monday sessions.

Member organised activities

Member-organized activities rely on volunteers. Emphasis on the importance of member participation and if you think you might be able to join, sign up and others will join.

  • Tuesday Evening Rides: Restarting in April.
  • Wednesday Evening Trail Runs: Flexible start times and locations.
  • Social Runs (cat and mouse): Resuming in April, based from the Walton Bridge.
  • Zwift Evening Rides: Regular sessions on Wednesdays and a new Thursday session starting March 13th.
  • Monthly Cycle Loop Training: Monthly sessions starting May 4th, exploring quiet public roads.
  • Hillingham Race Circuit: Potential closed-road circuit for training, pending cost evaluation.
  • UK-Based Triathlon Training Camp: Under investigation for future implementation, aiming for inclusivity.

Club Merchandise and Kit

  • Introduction of a new supplier, BornBound, for club kits, chosen for their offerings in the triathlon arena.
  • Assurance of consistent kit design with no plans for frequent changes, aiming for repeatability in sizing and availability.
  • The first order window for the new kit will open on the 13th of March, with a lead time of approximately 10-12 weeks.
  • Emphasis on the challenge of sizing due to Italian manufacturing, with plans to provide stock for swaps and for the new members.
  • Explanation of pricing differences between male and female jerseys, based on factory quotes without rounding up. Transition to an online store for kit purchases, with payments handled directly by the supplier, removing the club from financial transactions.
  • Hoodies will arrive next week (wc 10th of March) and technical t-shirts will arrive at the end of March. Get your orders in by emailing viceroytriathlonclub@hotmail.com, limited number of sizes in the first patch.

Committee Updates

  • A formal vote was conducted for the first time to elect committee members.
  • The committee met 8-9 times over the past year, primarily communicating via WhatsApp.
  • Members are encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions through the club’s email account.
  • New committee:
    • Club Chairman – Carl Britton​
    • Vice Chairman – Nick Christian​
    • Club Secretary – Iain Gill​
    • Membership Secretary – Carl Britton​
    • Treasurer – Sylwia Milkowska​
    • Events – Marit Sõrmus / Gary Parker-Ticehurst​
    • Socials – Lucy Hoseason / Sam Holloway / Clint Parker-Ticehurst​

Additional Committee member for 2025

  • Carla Gilbey will join the committee as a Kitt Officer. New role for this year and will be pending a vote next year.

AOB

Senior London Triathlon League

  • Last year the club shifted from the South East to the London region, improving accessibility to races.
  • Participation is either individual or as a team
  • Participation in the London League requires completing at least 3 events organised in the race series
  • More information will be added to the club app, if interested in taking part, let members know on the app.

BTF Club Relays 20/07/2025 Bedford

  • Teams can be formed with three members of mixed sexes, with flexibility in team composition.
  • Scheduled for July 20th in Bedford, featuring a team of four in a super sprint format.
  • Members interested in participating are encouraged to express their interest on the club app so others will know and a team can be set up.

Other topics:

Suggestions for club events include renting a velodrome for indoor track activities.

Acknowledgments

  • Appreciation was expressed for the outgoing committee’s efforts and the new members’ enthusiasm to drive the club forward.

Unfortunately, Ralph was not able to join but shared his observations after a year of being the Head Coach at Viceroys.

My observations from my first year of coaching Viceroys:

Hopefully everyone enjoys the sessions and feels that they are inclusive to all, whatever your level.

I genuinely have seen many that are attending the sessions improve technique, strength and speed throughout the year, so well done to all those that attended the sessions.

There has been a strong turnout most weeks at the swim sessions in the summer months at the lake, the track and the S&C / track run sessions throughout the winter.  This has been a new element for the club training through the winter, which I think will reap dividends, especially for those that have attended.  I hope everyone has appreciated this new session throughout the winter.  Several sessions having over 20 members attending.

I would like to see more club members attend the sessions. It helps build camaraderie, develops a strong club identity (even more than it is already), creates a buzz and gets you to meet more of your club mates.

Coming to the club sessions also helps me identify any issues that you may have with technique, injuries or training questions, so if you are looking to improve then this is the best way to achieve that.

As a high-performance coach, I periodise the training sessions so that you are doing the right sessions for the time of year to build you towards peaking for the summer months when most races take place.  Obviously, if your race falls outside of the summer months, I can help you tweak the club sessions to fit in with what you are aiming for. I have helped over 30 individuals get from beginner level to represent GB for their age groups and helped 4 individuals get to Kona, win world or European championships, so I can help everyone from beginners to high performers.

I have really enjoyed coaching Viceroys this year and love the buzz of the club. I’ve enjoyed meeting a large proportion of the club, but I would like to help more of you!

Ralph

ralph.hydes@hotmail.co.uk

Race Report: Anna Chapman

Event: World Triathlon Championship Finals – Sprint
Date: 17th October 2024

Wow, what a few days in Torremolinos for the World Triathlon Sprint Age Group race! This was my second year of racing in GB Age Group events.

So I first started to take note of event communications once a significant number of competitors had booked their accommodation and the race venue was subsequently changed from Malaga to Torremolinos – this didn’t present the best start to the event. Some competitors managed to move bookings while others didn’t or couldn’t. A little bit more thought and planning was required for some to get between the event village, pre-race briefings and obviously the race itself!

I was late in booking my accommodation as I wasn’t too sure I was going to race. I was given a hotel recommendation which turned out to be very close to transition and, by chance, where the GB and USA Elite teams were staying. I did see Alex Yee tucking into his breakfast and Beth Potter head out for a run.

The weather in the couple of days leading up to the race was wet! There were plenty of competitors trying to keep dry while registering and a few who had umbrellas to huddle under. The rain fell heavily on Wednesday morning with full drains overflowing into the sea. The races were due to start on Thursday morning. I decided not to swim in the sea on Wednesday for fear of getting ill. However, some did venture in later in the day and I waded in to check how quickly the shelf dropped so I knew what to expect for my race on Thursday afternoon.

During our race briefing, we were made aware of a large puddle on the bike course which needed to be handled with care! Needless to say, quite a few went to check said puddle after the briefing. Fortunately, no further rain fell so it had dried out in time.

Race day arrived and the sun was shining. We were able to rack bikes the morning of the race. My race started just before 4pm. Having watched a few earlier waves go, the wind had picked up, the sea was very choppy with a slight current, and the distance looked more than 750m. We were held in the holding pen for longer than we were expecting – nerves running high and sweating in wetsuits all round! I lined up on the beach ready for the horn and then the sprint into the water with all my age group.

The swim was tough! At some points the waves were so big you couldn’t see the shore and it made sighting hard work. Competitors were definitely struggling with this, with some clocking a 1km swim. There was a 30 minute cut off which some weaker swimmers and older age groupers didn’t meet. Allowances weren’t made for the conditions.

T1 involved a run up the beach, up a ramp, over a bridge and down the ramp into the transition to find your bike somewhere near the many palm trees! The bridge was required as the run route was below it on the coast road next to the beach.

The 20km bike course was two laps and fairly technical with some inclines, two dead turns and road ramps on and off a main road. There was a headwind on the inclines. I managed to get into a pack with Mexicans, Canadians, a USA and GB lady. The Mexicans were very vocal. I actually quite enjoyed this bit!

T2 was another case of trying to get through it as quickly as possible while navigating bikes and competitors and also spotting your rack/trainers.

On to the 5km run. It felt hot – something like 23/24 degrees. Chucked some water over myself at an aid station and got through it. There were many supporters all along the run course which made for a great atmosphere.

A sense of relief once I’d crossed the finish line and not being entirely sure of where I’d placed.

I came 4th out of 55 in my age group which I was pleased with, especially being at the oldest end of my age group and finishing 24th last year (my first year of taking part in GB age group). My target was to place better than last year which I had achieved!

Sadly not long after I’d finished my race I‘d heard that tragically there were two fatalities in the men’s race earlier. A Mexican man had died in the swim and a GB man on the run. This was devastating news for all of us to hear and our thoughts are with their families and friends.

Other VTC competitors I saw there were Sam Holloway, sprinting out of T2 onto the run course, and Andy Hoseason – we had a nice chat while standing under a shop awning while the rain fell! Congratulations to Sam, Andy and Lucy!

Next year’s World Championships are in Wollongong, Australia. I’m not planning on going that far yet…

Hope you’ve all had a great triathlon season – enjoyed it and achieved whatever goals you set yourselves 😊

Race Report: Marit Sõrmus

Event: The ROC Scotland
Date: 5th October 2024

Out of the 3 races, this was the unknown, the adventure one and boy did it deliver! Below is a recap of the 3 musketeer’s (Lara, Lance and Marit) adventure in Scotland.

Day before the race: None of us are mountain bikers so those heavy beasts and unfamiliar terrain can be daunting so we decided to go and check out part of the course. 15 minutes in, Lara came off the bike, smacking the handlebar in her face and bending the rear derailleur. Off to the bike shop we went to get things sorted (thank you Nevis Cycles for being amazing!) while trying to convince Lara not to pull out of the race. Bike fixed, we went for a little spin and spent the evening putting together a game plan for the race.

Race day: Announcement comes “water temp is 12C and the swim is on”, 1000m cold water swim, here we come! Lance had his game face on, Lara looked a bit more terrified and I was ready to get this show on the road. No turning back now!

We get in the water and it is cold, like really cold. A few calming breaths, a few more “wise” words to Lara and we are off. Dark, cold but stunning views, sum up the swim. As I got out of the water Lance’s trainers were gone, he clearly had a great swim, and as I was putting mine on Lara came out, off for our run to T1 we went.

First bike leg was tough, it starts with a long road climb and then takes you on to the West Highlands Way. Lara and I planned to ride together and we managed to catch Lance on the climb but then as we hit the gravel section he was gone, flying! Mountain biking West Highlands Way is tricky for a road cyclist and way more undulating than expected but no way as tricky as people who were on gravel bikes! I was looking forward to the road section but that was hilly, I was not expecting that.

We got to T2, laughing and joking because we already knew we were not going to make the Ben Nevis cut-off but planned to tackle it regardless and in a positive mood. I might have said Ben Nevis is the easiest climb, out of 3, but mistakenly I forgot the zigzag and never-ending steps. Sorry Lara and Lance! Lara and I high fived Lance on the way up and after an hour + a few Percy Pigs for us, he cheered us on as he passed us on the way down. We were told cut-off was moved to 12:30 while on the mountain, slightly annoyed as we missed it only by a few minutes and maybe if we had known earlier we would have pushed harder but oh well! Doesn’t matter, the climb was a great chance to chat with some amazing people (@EmmaWhysall you are an inspiration!) and gave us a chance to take in what we were doing and how amazing the views were!

T3, legs didn’t want to get on the bike again and we knew it was going to be tough but there’s no other way back, 2nd bike leg here we go. Best part was the feed station where we had peppers, carrots and cucumbers… yes that was amazing! With more confidence on the bike, powered by peppers and with a massive mood boost, we hit the offroad section. As we navigated the gravel section and eventually waved bye to the stunning views, it was all downhill to T4.

We had the biggest grins on our faces, we had done it! Well almost, just the final 1.5km run to go. Trainers on, let’s see what those legs have left. Not much was the answer but knowing the end was near we somehow had smiles on our faces! I can see the finish line, quick check that we do not have snot on our faces, Lara and I crossed the finish line together, teamwork! Not long after Lance came in and was welcomed across the finish line with massive cheers and huge hugs. We did it!

So proud of all of us and happy we all managed to push through the tough parts and get to the end in one piece (well almost!) Glad we are all as nuts as each other and support one another by signing up to races together. What’s next team?

Catch up on all The ROC Race Reports:
The ROC Wales
The ROC England
The ROC Scotland

VTC Winter Challenge 2024-2025

Winter-Challenge

VTC Winter Challenge 2024-2025

WHEN: Starts 25th November 2024 until 23rd of February 2025

WHAT: Everyone needs a little motivation during the winter months and what better way to motivate yourself than compete against your fellow VTC club mates?

Swim, bike and run weekly challenges will be announced every Sunday and you have until the following Sunday to complete them, sometimes as a team and sometimes individually.

There’s no ‘i’ in Team 🙂

WHERE: Some challenges are done in specific locations, some you can do in the comfort of your own home (equipment permitting), and some on the roads/trails wherever you wish.

WHAT”S NEXT: Find a buddy* and send both your details and team name to 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐲𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐛@𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐥.𝐜𝐨𝐦. Final date for team registration is the 23rd of November.

Be ready for some fun with friends…

PRIZES FOR THE TOP 3 TEAMS!

* If you’d like us to find a team mate for you, pop us an email and we’ll work our matching up magic!

Race Report: Tracey Mills

Event: Vichy European Sprint Triathlon 2024
Date: 21st September 2024

What a difference a year makes!

The day started early just as the sun was rising over a calm flat Allier River. Bikes had been racked the night before, all that was required was to set out my transition space and then make our way to the start!

The swim was a deep water start with one hand on the pontoon, rhythm of heartbeats blaring over the speakers…. With only 3 mins between each wave, there was very little time to acclimatise, I was still swishing some water into my wetsuit when I heard – “On your marks, BANG!” and we were off into the river reflecting the golden sunrise.

The anticlockwise course was a massive help as I’m a left side breather. I have worked hard this year on technique and focusing on relaxing. Not only did I swim an efficient route, (usually I get my money’s worth on the swim visiting all sorts of attractions on route to the exit), it felt comfortable. Surprisingly I came out of the water further up than I could ever have hoped for.

The first 3 waves (F50, F55 & F60+) went off with nearly an hour gap before the next waves, which was perfect as we didn’t suffer the red mist fuelled younger men overtaking on bikes, as I had experienced at the 2023 Worlds.

T1: Not a lot to say, I knew exactly where my bike was and went straight to it – helmet, glasses and shoes on, run to find the mount line….did I say the mount lines were not in place before our wave!?

Cycle was 3 laps, despite this being a drafting race, I came out onto the course on my own working hard to catch and overtake cyclists. Eventually, I had another Brit for company, who initially took turns. It became apparent I was the strongest cyclist and on the final lap was left to lead (possibly they had a good race strategy, but annoying for me).

T2: I overshot the entrance to T2 and the two cyclists behind me entered transition first…doh!

I came out of transition on the run, chasing and overtaking, it felt relaxed and a good pace. This continued until I reached the river with 300m, and three right angle bends to go, when I discovered I had to find another gear in a sprint for the line. Dipping at the line but I wasn’t convinced it was enough. The official results were not published until the evening, so it was a long wait to discover my dip had done the trick!

9th at the Europeans – I’ll take that!

The very best thing about triathlons is the people and with multiple elements, you can usually find a positive… whether the run was good or even that your transition was faster than your competitors – and yes there is usually an element or two you think you could improve on. But I can honestly say this time I had an absolutely storming race, achieving way more than I thought could. One very happy Granny!

Worth noting, my planned pre-race fuel of fish pie and peas was a bit of a linguist disaster, for future I now know nothing complicated is required as all I need is a pile of mashed potato and peas!!!!

Special thanks to Rob the bike butler and my 87 year old Dad who walked many miles around Vichy to support his mad daughter. Thankfully this year didn’t include a visit to the local A&E!

Race Report: Hugh Davenport

Event: Hever Castle Triathlon | Castle Race Series
Date: 29th September 2024

When I booked in late summer, I thought Hever would make a nice finish to the UK race season, but torrential rain in the lead up to the event had me questioning the wisdom of my decision. Thankfully, the sun was forecast to return for the weekend of the races and, even though it was never likely to make a difference to the bracing 17 degrees water temperature, it was great to be racing in the dry especially as I’d recklessly signed up to the Olympic distance so was expecting to be out on the course for quite some time.

As it transpired, I needn’t have concerned myself with the water temperature as the wettest September on record at Hever resulted in the swim being cancelled. Disappointing, but the flip side was an extra hour in bed as my start time was also pushed back.

The event was well organised and, despite the still wet conditions underfoot and some changes to the race format and route, there was a fun and friendly atmosphere throughout. The course is very picturesque, meandering through the undulating Kent countryside and the beautiful grounds of Hever Castle. A bit over my target of 3 hours after my 11:00 start, I’d soon enough finished the 5km run/40km bike/10km run.

In all, a good day out but lesson learned that you’re taking a chance with the weather in late September. After the race, I didn’t hang around to check out the merch or food stands, but if they were anything on par with the photography (£15 for a single digital print) then it would have been pricey. And as a consequence, you and I will have to make do with this rather bad selfie.

Race Report: Carl Britton

Event: UCI Gravel World Series – Ruthin, Wales
Date: 22nd September 2024

How it started
Whilst in the final weeks of preparation for my 100km Ultra I received a message from a friend asking if I was doing the UCI race the week after my run. My initial reaction was not printable but then after a few moments of thinking time, I agreed to go if he wanted to do it!
So, a new challenge was born!

Clearly, the aim was to get round this year rather than qualify for an AG World Champs place. Would my body recover enough from the previous week’s Ultra to make this possible? I wasn’t sure, but I was up for giving it a go!

The course
The race begins around Brenig reservoir, where the initial ascent, a 1.2km climb at an average gradient of 4%, awaits after 6km on the reservoir’s north side. The initial climb is designed to fragment the peloton. Subsequently, at the 14km mark on each lap, riders encounter a second comparable ascent, stretching 1.3km with an average gradient of 6.2%. Nestled between these climbs is a brief 100m incline, boasting an average gradient of 28%. Throughout the course, elevation fluctuates between 300 and 470m above sea level and is never flat. With a cumulative elevation gain exceeding 2000m, this course presents a formidable challenge to all participants and at 112km, adds up to the official qualifier distance for the UCI Gravel World Championships.

The race
The weekend before the race our campsite booking was cancelled due to a flood, this proved to be a sign of things to come! Luckily, we found alternative accommodation in an Airbnb in nearby Ruthin that wasn’t fully booked. After arriving on Saturday afternoon, we went for a walk to stretch our legs and found ourselves in a thunder and lightning storm. Everything was pointing towards a very wet race! The weather forecast for race day was rain, rain and more rain and led to many entrants not even making the start line.

6:00 – Time to get up, pack the van and sort the Airbnb out. No rain!

7:00 – 30-minute drive to the venue and then 30 minutes looking for a layby to park in.

8:00 – Spin down to registration to sign on and check out the first few km of the course, find the bag drop location and time for a coffee before cycling back to the van to get kitted up.

10:00 – Final kit choices made. Is it going to rain, rain or rain? Then spin back down to the start to get into our pens to await the start.

11:00 – Race starts with the usual frantic dash up a gravel hill before a 5km road section where groups formed before we hit some single track and things spread out a little. One ambulance with 2 crash victims already! Still no rain.

13:30 – After a steady 2.5 hours I’m feeling ok, fuelled with a 40g carb gel every 30 minutes washed down with a bottle of water, I get to the end of lap 1 and it’s still mainly dry.

13:35 – RAIN!! Finally, the scheduled rain came just after I had passed the start/finish area. I have never raced in rain this heavy before. It was character building for sure and never stopped for the rest of the event!!

16:00 – Another 2.5 hours of grinding, sticking to the same fuelling strategy, battling through the rain/mud and the end is in sight (kind of, as not much to see through my muddy Oakley’s!) so I sit up and cruise whilst letting a rider catch me up only to find he is in my category so I get to do a sprint (for a lowly 37th) at the end. Just what I needed to bring an epic race to an end!!

17:00 – Back in the van for the long journey back.

22:30 – Home after a long, challenging, but enjoyable day out!

How it ended!!
To summarize, I had a great weekend away with friends and even though I wasn’t in any fit state to perform, I really enjoyed the race from a slightly different viewpoint. It’s amazing what the body can do when you focus on getting something done!!

Race Report: Alex Lyons

Event: Bacchus Wine Half Marathon & 10km
Date: 8th September 2024

Fancy dress 10k with wine stops, live music, cheese and biscuits along the route plus a hog roast and party at the end…? Sign me up!

The Bacchus Wine 10k/half marathon is THE place to have the funniest day out wearing your best fancy dress outfit. A bunch of us decided to sign up and make a day of it…I was due to go as Little Bo Peep but not only had I lost my sheep, I had lost the outfit as well. So I ended up doing my best to recreate an 80s fitness instructor with a few items I had lying around.

We made it to the start line just as the rain started (that didn’t help with my bright pink heart shaped glasses!). But we giggled and laughed as we made our way through the beautiful vineyards, rolling hills, and a bit of mud before we reached our first stop.

The rain had stopped and the sun shone brightly on us. A tipple of red or white wine, a selection of cheeses (including vegan) plus a handful of crackers were on offer so we tucked in! With a few sips whilst enjoying the view we then made our way once more. A few more (steep) hills later, we reached the second stop. More wine and snacks!

A few more even steeper hills and we had made it to the top only to find a wonderful sign saying… “all downhill from here.” We flew down those hills and made it in one piece to our third and final stop where we danced for a bit to the live music, having another tipple with some sweets, donuts and chocolate eclairs! Yummy.

With only 500m to go, we were cheered across the finish line, each with our name kindly read aloud by the MC. What a lovely finish to a fab “race.”

After collecting our medals and T-shirts we cheered on the remaining group before heading to the party tent. We gobbled down our complementary tipple of choice (wine or beer) with a hog roast burger then raved our way around the party tent to the 90s old skool Ibiza classics! What a bangin party!!

I can’t recommend this enough if you’re looking for a fun filled event with loads of dancing en route and at the end. Who’s joining me next year?!

October 2024 Newsletter

Welcome to the Viceroys October Newsletter where we highlight all the main events, news and things you need to know! But as with every month, before we get into October, let’s take a look at the best bits from September.

Our VTC Fun Relay, as always, was a complete hit! Not competitive at all ;-). And a huge shout out goes to Marit for organising all the teams. We also had our end of season party at Nick’s beautiful house (thank you to Nick for hosting and Marit and Fi for organising), and it was lovely to see so many of you there enjoying the company and burgers.

Our Friday Track sessions were also given the go ahead to continue throughout the year and we’ve had a great turnout so far, despite the earlier start time of 18:00. To keep everyone injury free over the winter, Coach Ralph is alternating the sessions between a normal track session and a strength/conditioning session. As always, all levels are welcome and accommodated for. Remember to Sign Up in the VTC app.

And finally, we’ve had an amazing series of Race/Event Reports (catch up here) featuring the Thames Path 100km Ultra Run, The ROC England, VTC Club Relay, The Brutal Extreme Full Distance Triathlon, Ironman Copenhagen and the North Downs Ultra 50 Challenge. If you’ve done a race or event recently, we’d love to hear about it, so please get in touch with Sheena via the VTC app to share.

So let’s get to it then, here is EVERYTHING (well almost everything) you need to know…

ZWIFT TT SERIES
Every Wednesday 18:00
Location: The comfort/discomfort of your bike seat

Currently a group ride or workout each week. When we have a good size group showing interest the race series will be set up again.

If you would like to take part and are not a member of the VTC Zwift club, please request it on the VTC app ‘Zwift TT Series’ chat and Carl will arrange access.

All levels are welcome and accommodated for. Sign Up in the VTC app.

🎃 HALLOWEEN FUN RIDE 🎃
Sunday 27th October
Start Location: Cowey Sale Car Park
Time: 8am

Get your spooky costume on and come join us for our inaugural Halloween ride.

Starting at 8am from the usual Cowey Sale meeting point, the plan is to have an easy ride around the nearest Surrey hills, taking in some local ghost stories at points along the route.
Finishing in a pub in the Walton area.

If you can’t join us for the ride then swing by the pub after! Sign Up in the VTC app.

SANTA CHARITY FUN RUN 
Sunday 8th December
Location: Bushy Park

To kick us off in the Christmas spirit, we are entering the Princess Alice Hospice Santa Fun run at Bushy Park on Sunday 8th December.

Run, walk or even skip the 5km in your festive fancy dress with fellow VTC club members all whilst raising money for the local hospice.

Entry cost is £25 which includes a FREE SANTA OUTFIT – there is an Early Bird discount of 20% off right now so don’t delay! Fundraising or donation is requested in addition to the entry fee.

For sign up: https://www.pah.org.uk/santafunrun/
Tick…..Self Only
Tick…..Part of a Team
Add…..Viceroys Triathlon Club

Bring the family, wheelchair and buggy friendly! And don’t forget to Sign Up in the VTC app.

NAUGHTY LITTLE ELF CHRISTMAS RIDE
Sunday 15th December
Start Location: Cowey Sale Car Park
Time: 10am (although some groups may go earlier)

Another excuse to get dressed up, this time with a Christmas theme. This used to be simply a case of wrapping a bit of tinsel on your bike, but everyone has really stepped up with the level of wardrobe imagination in the last few years!

We normally roll out at a leisurely pace, taking in a fairly short route around Windsor Great Park and return to the Red Lion (Walton) for drinks at noon.

It’s one of the only group rides on which motorists beep us in a positive manner! So hopefully we can bring out some more festive cheers with a great turnout of sparkling costumes.

If you can’t join us for the ride then swing by the pub after! Sign Up in the VTC app.

VTC Naughty Elf Ride 2023
VTC Naughty Elf Ride 2023

2025 EVENTS – LET US KNOW WHAT YOU’RE UP TO!

You look down at the blue carpet. Everything before this point in time seems insignificant, and everything after seems impossible.
And then it’s over and you want to do it all again!
So…

Where will you be at 7.15am on 1st June 2025? Maybe you are ready to jump the 3m above
the cold turbulent water from the edge of the deck of the Hornblower San Francisco Belle.
Into an abyss of shark folklore…
Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon

Where will you be at 8.00am on 4th October 2025? Maybe you are in freezing black water of
Loch Leven ready to finish the last of three ROC’s and over 4000ft of elevation. And get
back.
THE ROC TRILOGY

Where will you be at 7.00am on 31st August 2025? Maybe you’re alongside several super
keen VTC friends on the edge of a lake full of drinking quality glacial water at the foot of the
Austrian Alps.
IRONMAN 70.3 Zell am See-Kaprun

Where will you be at 7.30am on 19th July 2025? Maybe you’re looking at the warm Dorney
water wondering whether you can swim without the help of a wetsuit, whether trisuits are
really flattering, whether you’ve remembered everything in transition…
Eton Dorney Family Triathlon

Where will you be? Well now is the time to get your ass in gear and do something about it!

Similar to this year, we would like to add everyone’s 2025 events to the VTC app calendar, this allows others to see events that they may not have thought of doing or see that other VTC members are doing the same event. Plus it gives us the chance to cheer you on!
So please let us know your event details in the ‘2025 Races’ chat room on the VTC app and we will add them to the calendar.

Sign up, plan, train. You CAN do it!

2025 CLUB EVENTS

We’d love to hear some suggestions from our members on events that we could do as a club in 2025. Of course, some of our favourites will still be running but we always like to hear your suggestions.

Examples and suggestions we’ve already received include:
– Start of Season Ride
– Fish & Chip Ride to Brighton
– Bacchus Wine Half Marathon & 10km (Denbies Wine Estate)
– Retro Jersey Ride
– Club Championship Triathlon
– Level Water 24hr Swim
– Night of the 10,000m PB’s
– Isle of Wight Ride
– Club Relay
– Halloween Ride
– Naughty Elf Ride
– End of Season Party
– Boxing Day Swim

COMMITTEE 2025

Before the end of the year, we will be sending out committee nomination forms for VTC Club Members to vote on at the 2025 AGM. You can nominate yourself or talk to someone you think should be nominated.

If you want to get involved in the committee and running of the club, this is a surefire way to do it! We meet regularly, about every couple of months, and usually at a local pub!

Every committee position is up for re-election, no existing Committee Member takes for granted that they will be wanted year in, year out!

Then there’s the AGM. It’s a great place to share ideas, give feedback, meet fellow triathletes and cyclists. Also, usually at a local pub.

The Committee Members also catch up with each other at club events. There’s usually a gaggle of them downing cans in the car park after each Friday track.

Have you spotted at theme yet!?

So keep an eye on your inbox and the VTC app for the nomination forms.