The Clumber Park Classic Duathlon

Clumber Park is with little doubt one of the most picturesque settings for a duathlon that you are ever likely to race on. A truly spectacular National Trust Country Park with acre upon acre of woodland, whether racing the sprint or the classic distance race you will not be short of some beautiful countryside on which to feast your eyes. As with every beauty however, there is always a beast, and the Clumber Classic Duathlon is no exception though it does have a beast.

In 2010, the Clumber Classic Duathlon standard distance has been selected by British Triathlon to be the British Duathlon Championships for age group competitors. This event will also be a qualifier for the World Duathlon Championships that will take place in Edinburgh on September 4th 2010 & the European Duathlon Championship. There will be 6 places per age group available to qualify for these Championships.

With two separate events, this duathlon is a great event for all athletes, both new and old. For the new the sprint event will be a gentle welcome to the sport of duathlon. For the more experienced athletes, both events are a great warm up for the season ahead and an opportunity to test the winter training.

For those slightly more serious athletes, the standard distance will give the opportunity not only to qualify for Great Britain's Age Group Team but also to compete for points in the Taut British Duathlon National Ranking Series.

Let's talk about the actual event then. The two run sections are the sting in the tail, and whilst remaining completely within the park on the private tree lined road which is fully closed for the race, you may find the outward climb, which whilst not steep maintains a steady ascent for the duration, is the bit where you would be willing to swap some of the beauty for a little bit of flat tarmac. The good news is on the way back it's pretty much all downhill.

The bike course is through unquestionably some of the most beautiful tree lined routes in the UK. The long rolling roads will however test your strength as the roads pitch from climb to descent so you needn't think that the bike is going to be just a sightseeing tour.