The second annual COPE Triathlon will take place in Salthill on Sunday June 13. The event will consist of a 750m swim followed by a 20km cycle and a 5km run along the Galway coastline.
The triathlon is a fundraising initiative for the charity COPE Galway, which provides a range of services including a refuge for women and children affected by domestic violence, accommodation for homeless men and women, and sustenance and social supports for older people living at home.
“Last year was a great success with first timers taking part alongside seasoned triathletes,” said Fintan Maher of COPE at the launch of the event this week. “Over 200 people took part and the atmosphere on the day was electric. We were delighted this year when Colin Bolger, who is a multiple National Triathlon champion, agreed to launch our event as it is so important to encourage young people to get involved in sport. We also hope that Colin's involvement will help to highlight the issues of isolation in our local community to a younger audience.”
Colin Bolger and his twin brother Neil have been participating in triathlons since they were 17 years old. The Bolger twins are coached by Sebastien Locteau, who has very high hopes for the twins at national and international level. Locteau, an Olympic swimming coach and an Iron Man and triathlete himself, is organising the event on June 13.
“I am delighted to be able to help COPE Galway with this fundraising initiative,” Locteau said. “It's a competitive event that will attract athletes from all over the country, but beginners are also very welcome.” Last year Locteau organised eight weeks of training in the run up to the COPE Triathlon to encourage more first timers to take part and he will be doing the same again this year. The training will take place on the Prom on Mondays from 8pm starting on May 3, and is free of charge to anyone who has registered for the race.
“Galway Bay is the ideal location for an event like this against a backdrop of magnificent scenery and the facilities of Salthill and Galway city,” said Fiona Monaghan from Fáilte Ireland, which is supporting the event. “It's easy to get to, easy to park, and great for spectators. It will bring visitors to Galway, both participants and spectators.”
To sign up for the triathlon visit www.copegalwaytriathlon.com
