Pulse Port Beach Triathlon 2023
In the ancient Irish calendar, autumn began in August. Triathletes across the island are discovering that what they thought were summer races with pleasant sea swims are in fact autumnal in the extreme, with many DTC members involuntarily discovering the joys of duathlons recently. The Pulse Port Beach triathlon, a National Series race, was yet another victim of sea conditions, this time due to a heavy fog lying over the beach and sea. Even the most gung-ho athletes had to concede that the sea swim would have been unsafe, considering it was barely possible to see the buoys.
After a short hopeful delay, Plan B was quickly implemented, with the swim replaced with a 3km run in perfect conditions, at least on land. As these discussions took place, athletes were able to enjoy the atmosphere, with lots of food and drink options, roaming photographers, and the portaloos which generated many emotional comments and some regret at the lost opportunity to empty bladders into the Irish Sea. If autumn is the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, the last portaloo on the left provided the latter in buckets.
11 DTC members had made the trip to Louth for what was for almost all their last chance at a triathlon this year, with some desperate female members named Cheryl securing an entry less than 24 hrs before the start as the horror at a long triathlon-free winter started to hit home . Even some DTC members not participating showed up to provide welcome support.
Despite the change to run-bike-run, feedback on the race was very positive, with many commenting on the great bike course in particular. Comments on the second run were not quite as positive, as runners paid the price for going too hard in the first run, although the out and back course did allow many everyday athletes to witness the incredible pace of the race leaders.
Particular praise is due to Sophie Truesdale with her by now routine age group podium place, leaving with a nice trophy and Cycle Superstore gift card, as well as Shonagh Nelson who finished in a great time despite multiple mechanical issues during the cycle.
In the aftermath of the race, the sea quickly filled with triathletes desperate to at least dip their toes in the water before beginning the journey home, no doubt to obsess on Strava whilst re-fuelling appropriately in celebration at securing hard-earned PBs in Duathlon.