Berry earns place at world championships

Triathlon

Tri Spirit’s Steve Berry will be preparing for a date in Hawaii this time next year.

He will compete in the Ironman World Championships at Kona in October 2017, courtesy of second place in his age-group at the Ironman Wales event at Tenby last weekend.

This is a great achievement for somebody who only took up the sport three years ago but who is now proving to be up there with the best in the world in the discipline.

Racing in the 45-49 age-group, Berry shrugged off a hip problem to clinch one of the five world spots on offer and was delighted.

He said: “I was over the moon with how it went. It’s no fun running with sore flexors for 42k and to hold on to second place was unbelievable.

“I went there to try for a podium, never dreamed I would actually get it and with a sub 10 hours 30. Thanks to everyone for all your support.”

Berry began with a two-lap swim in the bay at Tenby, finishing 30th, before improving to second on the bike – his specialist event – moving into second place, completing the 112 miles in 5:35.09.

He then dug deep on the run to finish the marathon distance in 3:44.14.

Tri Spirit’s Liz King said: “This achievement is every Ironman triathlete’s ambition and to get a slot takes commitment, an understanding family, talent, sheer determination.”

Sarah Peachey and Nick Whitfield raced at Ironman Weymouth 70.3, a tough course with a sea swim, hilly bike ride and a run.

Whitfield was first home in 5:44.38, while Peachey, despite racing with a knee injury, crossed the line in 6:27.

Clare Donovan has also been in action, in the Worthing Sprint Triathlon, winning her age-group and the over 50 prize, in a time of 1:40.52. grit and

From left: Zante Bright, Daniel Townsend, Emily Clapham and Edward Geering

Steve Berry – hard work rewarded