Jak Smith smashed the club’s first triathlon of the year by winning the West Lancs Spring Sprint Triathlon in the lightening time of 57 minutes and 53 seconds. Taking place on the Edge Hill University campus, the sprint triathlon involved a 400m pool swim, a three-lap 21.5km cycle and a 2.5km run on site trails. Jak’s individual splits included an incredible 4 minute 51 second swim, 34 minute cycle and 16 minute and 40 second run.

Meanwhile fellow member Rowena Christmas tackled the epic SheUltra Pen Llŷn ultra marathon in north Wales. The demanding 50km route took in more than 900m of elevation, starting and ending in Pwllheli. Aiming to raise £1 million for women’s cancer charities in the next five years, the women-only trail event is determined to increase awareness by encouraging participants to self-examine their breasts. Along with a group of four other intrepid women, Rowena battled through hail and strong winds to the finish line, managing to raise more than £6000 for Breast Cancer Now.

Further south, Claire Jackson wrangled with huge crowds, heat and mobbed water stations to storm across the London Marathon finish line with her best marathon time yet. Claire, who also completed a full Ironman last autumn, set a personal best with a speedy 3 hours and 45 minutes. Her huge effort has also benefited Tower Hill Stables and Sanctuary, with nearly £500 raised for the charity which cares for animals included retired-race horses and ex-fighting jobs.

Monmouth Tri Club is a small and friendly group which meets for a weekly swim session and cycle ride. Our members have varied sporting backgrounds and abilities, and you’ll always find support, or a training buddy in the club. See www.monmouthtri.club for more details.