THE LAKESMAN – FULL
19th June 2022
THE SWIM
3.8KM (2.4m)
DERWENT WATER
Derwentwater is generally regarded as the area’s most scenic lake and swimming in its crystal clear water is something all triathletes should get the chance to experience. A single lap swim is envisaged along with a mass start from the shallow water by the boat launch.
You probably won’t have the time but the views from the water are simply unbeatable! After the swim there is a short carpeted spectator lined run to transition which is adjacent to Theatre by the Lake.
THE BIKE
180KM (112m)
We believe that this is a simply superb route for a 112 mile triathlon bike course.
Athletes will take in several miles of well-known local time trial routes as well as more undulating sections, all on generally excellent road surfaces. Whilst not flat, we have minimised the elevation and it currently comes in at less than most of the other UK based races of this distance.
A new two loop format for 2023 due to Highways works affecting the existing routes.
Departing Keswick and heading immediately west you will see one of England’s highest mountains, Skiddaw to your right followed very quickly by Bassenthwaite Lake. The course makes good use of the A66 at a time of day when traffic is light, travelling towards Cockermouth before heading onwards towards the former steel town of Workington.
Once nearly at Workington a left turn onto another fast section along the A595, before going inland and visiting the pretty little villages of Branthwaite, Dean and Ullock.
An out and back section on the A595 brings the course eventually back towards the north and the A66 ready for a super quick return to Keswick. This is a time trialists dream on the A66, this final section along Bassenthwaite Lake is stunning.
A 360Deg turn at Crossthwaite roundabout just outside Keswick starts loop 2.
Repeating loop one inexactly the same way until just after Ullock when an extra 3.6miles has been added to achieve the correct course distance. You will on loop two visit the small village of Gillgaran. After this loop you repeat everything performed on loop one.
112 miles bike route around the superb Cumbrian countryside with the potential for some quick times.
A beautiful marathon awaits you on your return to T2
THE RUN
26.2m
We feel this five lap marathon course has everything, breath taking views, a virtually flat profile and the potential for great spectator support.
Leaving transition the route takes in some little known hidden areas of the town before heading North on the Cumbrian Way.On the approach to Portinscale the mighty Skiddaw comes into view in all its 3,053ft of glory – overlooking and protecting Keswick in equal measure. The route then utilises the A5721 for an out and back section, which is closed to traffic allowing athletes the chance to keep tabs on their competitors and also enjoy support from friends and family without worrying about cars.
The route then heads back towards Keswick town centre, once again passing through Elliot Park before crossing The Heads where the breathtaking lakes view reappears.
Dropping down towards Hope Park athletes must complete five loops before entering the magical red carpet finish chute where you will all hear words that make it all worthwhile: “You Are a Lakesman”.
Race HQ and transition
All functions for the race weekend will be based at Keswick Theatre by The Lake. Event HQ, Medical tents, Transition tents and racking etc will be erected in the car park adjacent to Crow Park and the theatre. Please be advised no parking will be available here from Friday 18th June at Midnight.
Athletes are advised that the exact location of each function will be displayed by way of map closer to the event date.