BAD WEATHER CUTS DUATHLON SHORT
HEAVY rainfall and vicious winds meant the Newcastle Duathlon due to take place on Saturday had to be cancelled after the first race.
The wind began to play havoc as the weather continued to deteriorate, with the marquees erected earlier that morning threatening to blow away.
After the first batch of competitors set off, it was decided to cancel the event due to health and safety concerns. The course was also considered a hazard due to the build-up of surface water. The event was due to include a 3.5 km run, 20 km cycle followed by another 3.5 km run.
Shirley Phibbs said all the organisers were disappointed at having to cancel the event but were left with little choice.
‘We have been running the event for seven years now and this is the first time the weather was terrible. Everyone’s safety was our biggest concern. It was a pity because we had over 100 people show up to take part, despite the rain. We also have to thank everyone who arrived at 8.30 a.m. in the driving rain to put everything in place and erect the marquees. Next year we will have some better weather, please God,’ said Shirley.
The evening entertainment still went ahead, including the ‘Battle of the Sexes’ game show which took place in The Castle Inn. Gladys Phibbs was the eventual winner and received €1,000 for all her efforts. A raffle and auction also took place on the night, with plenty of bids for a signed Irish football jersey. The three organisations benefiting were Greystones Cancer Support, Newcastle GAA and Newcastle Community Pre-school.