written by David Whitney
It was an amazing day for some 300 athletes from 11 countries who brought both excitement, applause and a welcomed sense of normality to Porto Colom for the 23rd running of the Porto Colom triathlon. It is a season opener for many professional athletes from countries such as Austria, France, Poland, Germany, mainland Spain, Mallorca and others. Many also take part in the iron man series but due to restrictions only 300 athletes were able to compete from the usual 900 plus for the 2 triathlon distances. The 55.5 and the 111.
With competitors raring to go it was not for the faint hearted with a 1000 metre course swim in the cold waters of the bay before a quick change for the cycle stage with a gruelling hard ride out of Porto Colom to the top of Sant Salvador.
For those taking part in the 111 kms it’s back to Porto Colom and out again to once more take up the challenge of the winding road to the top of Sant Salvador. A beautiful view of the island but can you imagine cycling up it twice before returning to Porto Colom for the last stage.
For the 55.5 competitors it was only once up to the top of Sant Salvador Easy then!! before the return to Porto Colom and the cheering crowd. A 100 kms or a 50 kms ride it was then a quick change again for the final 10 km run through the town to the famous lighthouse and back to the welcoming finishing line. You think you are fit!!!!! I shall keep to a strong walk along the beach!!!
A challenging course, as both the male and female athletes put their bodies to the test as the crowds applauded all finishers and well done to all. Some had certainly tested their stamina as they crossed the finishing line with bodies aching. All received their well deserved medal, refreshments together with a bottle of vino for the relaxing evening to come.
Hats off to all who organised the event to comply with the covid restrictions and to all who were a integral part of making the event and a success. A truly team event. A great day for Porto Colom and a rewarding one for all those that took part.