After a seven-year absence, triathlon is set to return to Gower. Two athletes from the Tri-Harder club have set about resurrecting the event at Port Eynon following the demise of the Excalibur Triathlon in 2001. It was a standard distance event and ran with great success for many years before being axed, leaving a hole in the race calendar. But experienced athletes Gareth Phillips and Scott Powell plan to bring triathlon back to the area with the first Gower Peninsular Triathlon scheduled for 2nd August this year. This years event will be a sprint distance race, but if successful it is hoped it will move on to the standard distance for 2009.

The race starts with a 750m swim at Port Eynon and incorporates a 24km bike ride that takes in Cefn Bryn. The race concludes with a 5km run which will be a two-lap multi-terrain challenge that will see athletes running over tarmac, wooden beach decking and sand dune paths. "The return of triathlon within the area of the Gower will be an excellent addition to the South Wales race calendar," said Powell, "the course has everything. It is exhilarating for the experienced athlete as well as being achievable for the newcomer."

The event is now at full capacity with 150 athletes poised to take part, coming from as far afield as France. For more information visit the website: www.gowertriathlon.co.uk or e-mail info@gowertriathlon.co.uk