Route for Games triathlon is praised

THE Birmingham Commonwealth Games triathlon route in Sutton Coldfield has been unveiled receiving universal support among politicians

The triathlon events at the Birmingham 2022 ames are Sutton’s slice of the summer sporting spectacular, with races on Friday, July 29 and Sunday, July 31.

The route will be competed on no less than five times with a men’s and women’s race in both triathlon and para triathlon.

There is a mixed team relay event, too.

And the route includes a 750-metre swim in Powell’s Pool after athletes dive in from a purpose-built pontoon, next to the Miller and Carter Steakhouse, before a ride out of the park onto the streets of Boldmere.

Riders will pelt down Stonehouse Road before heading down Boldmere ‘high street’ –Boldmere Road – whizzing by shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs that make up the heart of the community.

After the transition in to running gear, athletes will head into the park before diverting towards Wyndley Pool and then heading along a tree-lined route before doubling back towards Boldmere Gate.

It is a circuit they will complete twice, culminating in the finish line near Powell’s Pool.

Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council leader, Cllr Simon Ward, said it was a ‘fantastic opportunity’ for the Royal Town.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity to showcase our fantastic park as well.”

Secretary of the Boldmere Futures Partnership, Paul Long, said: “To me the route is absolutely brilliant for Boldmere.

“Number one it’s going down the high street.

“It’s going to show off the shops and bring extra trade to places.”

Sutton Vesey city and town councillor, Rob Pocock (Lab) said: “This will be an excellent opportunity to showcase the many attractions of our Sutton Vesey Ward.”

City Council leader Ian Ward said: “The Birmingham 2022 road event routes show how local councils and partners are making the games about much more than the main competition venues and those lucky enough to obtain tickets for them.”