Report from Paul (Oz) Wright

This event broke with tradition and was incorporated into a civilian race for the first time, namely Brighton, to show the public just how good the three Services could be, and the strength in depth that they possess. With more than the usual one man and his dog spectating, the 72 athletes from the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Airforce got under way at 0815hrs in conditions that would not have embarassed David Haselhoff. The championships took place in a completely isolated wave and it was easy to see that early leader Rick Collard (RAF) was forging ahead with Mark Livesey and Chris Stuart (both Army) close behind. In the ladies race Vicki Norton looked strong and led both Kate Unsworth and Sonia Hurst who had beaten her in the Worlds at Edmonton recently.

Onto the bike it was Rick Collard first but a broken seat post put him out of the running to leave Mark Livesey clear of Chris Stuart with Gary Gerrard in third. The race developed and, unfortunately for some, time penalties and eventual DQs would come into play. The reigning Mens Champions, the Army were packing well and anticipating victory but storming through on the run were Gerrard (Navy) and Ben Livesey (RAF) who was flying. Vicki Norton was holding onto a large clear lead for the ladies, however both the Navy and the RAF could not field full teams and the Army were certain to retain this title. The vets race was still nip and tuck, anyones to win with a bit of effort.

When all was done and dusted the Inter Services Male Winner was Gary Gerrard (Royal Navy), Vicki Norton (Royal Navy) won the ladies again, Gary Gerrard was also first 35+, with long time racer Stu Dinwoodie (Army) the Over 40's winner.

However highly prized the indivual trophies may be, the raison d'etre of the Inter Services remains the Team Trophies. Lt Col Barry Lillywhite from the Army Sport Control Board was present to award the following:

Inter Services Male Team Champions: The ARMY

Inter Services Female Team Champions: The ARMY

Inter Services Veterans Team Champions: The ARMY

For Bert Appleton, Stu Dinwoodie and Rich Brady for whom this will be their last Inter Services Championships it was a fitting way to end. As Bert said, "with this and the England result last night, it's been a b****y good weekend." Full results are on the Army triathlon website.