A British race has been named the best triathlon in the world following nearly 100,000 athlete reviews.
The Lakesman Triathlon in Keswick in the north of England’s Lake District came out on top to be named Racecheck’s ‘Best of the Best’ Triathlon, an award which honours the highest scoring race on the popular endurance sports review site.
A middle/ half Ironman distance race, the popular event features a 1.2 mile (1.9km) swim in Derwentwater, a 56 mile (90km) bike ride in the Lakes, and a half-marathon around Keswick.
A ‘testament to dedication’
The Lakesman Triathlon began in 2016 and has since grown in popularity, becoming a fixture of the British triathlon scene.
The now-award-winning race is organised by Lakesman Events and supported by principal race partners Cumberland Council and charitable social enterprise Better, with the triathlon coming out on top after nearly 100,000 verified reviews were submitted to Racecheck.
Councillor Anne Quilter of Cumberland Council said: “The Lakesman Triathlon has firmly established itself as one of the most popular endurance races in the UK and beyond, attracting athletes from all over the world to experience the stunning backdrop of Cumbria.
“Being voted the world’s best triathlon by Racecheck is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication of the organisers, volunteers, and the entire community who make this event so special.
“I have no doubt it will continue to grow, inspiring even more participants.”
Event Director Marie Whitehead also welcomed the news: “We started this event in 2016 with the ethos of putting our athletes first, and this recognition is testament to that initial ambition.
“We are lucky to be able to stage a backdrop in the most beautiful location, with fabulous partners and local sponsors who support us every year.”
Entirely athlete voted
Racecheck’s awards are handed out entirely based on user reviews of the race, which can only come from verified participants, rather than by organisers or a selection panel.
Events do not pay to be considered for the awards, which Racecheck says makes them one of the most authentic and respected recognitions in the industry.
Races qualify for gold, silver, and bronze awards by achieving benchmark average ratings based on participant feedback, with only one in each category of endurance event earning the moniker “Best of the Best.”
The Lakesman achieved a 4.9 star rating on Racecheck, with its 2024 reviews boasting an average of 4.96 stars to make it the best reviewed triathlon race in the world.
This year’s edition will take place on Sunday June 15th 2025, with the event also set to host the British and English Middle Distance Triathlon Championships.
Are we in a triathlon boom, or hurtling towards burnout? Laura Siddall on the growth of the sport
