MORE than 200 triathletes supported by family and friends descended on Cholmondeley for the inaugural Castle Triathlon Series.

The Cheshire based leg of the series, of which their are four, attracted a strong entry from all over the country at the weekend and was deemed a huge success by organisers.

The event, which saw competitors swim across Old Deer lake, cycle around Bickerton Hill and finish with a run across the picturesque castle grounds, was designed to encourage people of all ages to try the triathlon.

Event director Brian Adcock said: “It was a fantastic way to kick off this year’s Castle Triathlon series.

“The setting was truly beautiful, the sun shone and the competitors could not have been more enthusiastic about taking part in the inaugural event.

“What was particularly encouraging was the variety of competitors taking part.

“There were the elite athletes from the local triathlon clubs as well as school children and families all keen to give the Cholmondeley Castle triathlon a go. We can’t wait to come back again next year.”

Connor Barry of Chester Tri Club finished second in the Gothic Sprint event (1:12:20) while other local runners of various ages competed well in the other Cedar, Chestnut, Oak and Marquess Standard races.

For more information on the rest of the series, call 01892 870 681 or visit www.castletriathlon series.co.uk.