By Isle of Wight Observer
A bracing -3°C greeted 21 hardy souls from Wight Tri on Sunday, as the East Cowes Enema Duathlon lived up to its reputation. Aptly-named, after a certain procedure, the event promised to flush out weaknesses and excuses.
The winter‑series race featured either a 2.2km (1.4‑mile) or 4.2km (2.6‑mile) run along the Esplanade, Cambridge Road, and Old Road, followed by a 10km (6.2‑mile) bike loop to Fairlee roundabout and back, with a second lap for those keen to extend the suffering.
There were a few minor mishaps along the way – one chain came off and a handful of athletes took an unintended scenic route back to transition – but everyone returned intact.
Finishers quickly warmed up with hot drinks and offerings from the Bake Off table, where egg cups and quiche were available, though it was the sausage rolls that proved the clear favourite.
Predicted times were accurate, with four athletes finishing within a minute of their estimates. Jurgita Bates took first place, surprising herself by finishing just ten seconds outside her predicted time. Jack Elton‑Waters followed, 27 seconds out, with David Anderson third, 35 seconds adrift, and Paddy Condy fourth, 37 seconds out.
New chairwoman, Lucy Doorly, arrived to cheer competitors home. She also drew the raffle, with newcomer Mike Burt winning a Wight Tri bobble hat.
Thanks were extended to the volunteers who time‑kept, marshalled, ran the pop‑up café, and set out signage, in the freezing conditions.
The next duathlon takes place in Cowes on February 8, complete with a biscuit‑themed bake off. All are welcome. For more information, visit iw.observer/wight-tri.