MULTISPORT IS SO MUCH MORE THAN YOU MIGHT THINK. IN 2024, MAKE THIS THE YEAR YOU FIND THE RIGHT RACE FOR YOU WITH OUR EXPERT GUIDE – WHETHER THAT’S AN EVENT THAT’S ECO-FRIENDLY, BUDGET-FRIENDLY, OFF-ROAD OR A DIFFERENT COMBO OF SPORTS TO THE NORM. GET READY TO RACE!
WORDS JAMES WITTS IMAGEHUW FAIRCLOUGH/GETTY IMAGES
Now is the time to plan your 2024 multisport season. In fact, we insist, for putting a big ol’ cross or two (or three or four…) on last issue’s calendar will instantly elevate your motivation to train to another level. As you’ll see with what lies ahead, you’re spoilt for choice. Want to race a triathlon of any distance and different terrains? We’ve got you covered. Want to drop the bike or the run? Ditto. Want to be chased by the ‘Xekutioner’ in Montenegro? Sorted.
Once you’ve pinned down your 2024 events, it’s time to dig deep into your goal-setting (and goal-getting) plan. This can be as extensive or as brief as you like – whatever works for you – but we’d recommend build-up, smaller events en route to your big day. A structured training plan’s the ideal, too, either via a magazine (welcome to 220…!) or a training app like Training Peaks. And find a support system. This could be a friend to train with or a club. That might sound intimidating if you’re new to multisport but clubs are welcoming, positive and will make your 2024 journey even more enjoyable. Right, onto your best year ever… ←
BEST RACE FOR…BEGINNERS
The Blenheim Palace Triathlon enjoys arguably the most historic backdrops to any triathlon in the UK. The palace was built in the early 18th-century to celebrate victory over the French in the War of the Spanish Succession and was a gift to John Churchill, the first Duke of Marlborough, for leading the Allied forces in the Battle of Blenheim on 13 August 1704. His descendant, Winston, was born here on 30 November 1874.
That’s the history; what of the present? Well, let’s leave that to someone who’s been there and got the finisher’s medal. Twice. “My wife and I still clearly remember that June morning in 2012,” says Mark Ross, coach and owner of Kairos Multisport in Surrey. “Our first triathlon. We didn’t have a clue what we were doing! Transition seemed like a forest of never-ending bikes, the lake looked cold and a 5km run seemed too far. We were right in all cases! But we had a great time and never looked back.
“Ten years later we returned, with over 30 events of al
