If you’ve ever flirted with the idea of doing a triathlon but felt too nervous, not “fit enough”, or unsure where to begin — Chirk Triathlon is your golden ticket (or perhaps your golden swim cap). Held in the heart of our local landscape, it’s beginner-friendly, welcoming, and gives you every reason to believe: you CAN do this.
Whether you’re a nervous dabbler or a seasoned athlete looking for a chilled opener to your race season, Chirk is one of those “easy win” events. It’s well organised, feels safe, and offers a chance to test the tri-waters without the pressure of a mega-race atmosphere. Bonus points for biscuits at the finish.
Parking was free — yes, free — at Kronospan, just across the road from the leisure centre turn-off. An early start (groan) didn’t do wonders for my mood initially, but the payoff? Quiet roads for the bike leg and still home early enough for breakfast with the kids.
Registration was simple and efficient — round the back of the leisure centre. You’re given a swim cap, your race number is written on your arm (very triathlete chic), and then you’re off to set up in transition.
The swim was 400m — not 750m as originally advertised (cue many confused people entering inaccurate swim times!). It’s pool-based, making it less daunting if open water isn’t your thing.
Here’s how it works:
16 lengths (or 8 there-and-backs)
You swim 4 lengths in one lane, then duck under the rope to the next
No diving in, no big waves — just a calm, structured start with around 30-second gaps between swimmers
You can wear flip flops poolside and hand them off to a supporter (cheers, Andy)
Even better? Spectators can watch the swim and give you a cheer — it’s a lovely atmosphere to start your day.
From the pool, you’ll jog to transition in the car park, get your helmet on (before touching your bike), pop on all your bike gear and head out the car park. Mount line is just on the road — nice and straightforward.
The route takes you through the valley to Glyn Ceiriog. Think stunning scenery, a wide, quiet lane, and early-morning peace. There’s one hill of note — you’ll spot Chirk aqueduct off to your right just before the climb on the return leg. Don’t panic — it’s short, not steep, and there’s even a helpful sign at the top giving you a boost.
📝 Pro tip: If you’re not used to hills, practise getting out of the saddle now and then in training. It’ll give your legs the heads-up they need.
I scoffed at the idea of hills in Chirk. I take it back. They found them. Every. Single. One. But in a fun way. Honestly.
Each slope is followed by a downhill where you see the next one coming — it felt like a Tellytubbyland obstacle course of gentle mounds. Nothing extreme, just enough to keep it interesting. Walk if you need to — loads of people did. It’s about getting through and enjoying it.
Running after the bike is a thing. One confused bloke asked, “how are you supposed to run after that!?” And I get it. Your legs feel like jelly.
Why? It’s a mix of blood flow changes, muscle fatigue, and coordination. Your body just isn’t used to switching gear like that.
Solution? Add a short “brick” session to your training once a week. Just 5–10 minutes of running straight after a bike ride is enough. Do that for 4–6 weeks, and you’ll feel a massive difference. Your poor calves will thank you.
Coming back down towards the finish, it’s all downhill (in the good way). I had one of the guys from the club on my heels and refused to let him pass — laughing all the way to the finish chute.
Local cubs handed out medals, water and biscuits (the real MVPs). My friend Michael joined me down the finish line and got a medal too — the organisers let him keep it, and his joy was unmatched. That moment just captured the vibe: chilled, friendly, and open-hearted.
Absolutely. Especially if:
You’re new and need a no-pressure entry into triathlon
You live locally and want a race you can do without a hotel or travel stress
You want a community event that’s well supported and full of volunteers cheering you on
It’s only as serious as you make it. You don’t have to win. You can stop at the end of each length in the pool for a breather. You don’t even have to run the whole thing. You just have to show up, give it your best shot, and cross that finish line knowing you’ve done something brilliant.
Come for the triathlon, stay for the cake.
Got questions about race day, kit, or just wondering if triathlon life is for you? Pop them in on the contact page — I love helping people take their first steps into the sport. Good luck and if you’re thinking of taking part in Chirk 2026, I’ll see you there!
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