Torbay triathlete battles the world’s biggest challenge

The world's biggest long-distance triathlon celebrated its 40th anniversary this year and Julian Smith joined the huge party at Challenge Roth, achieving a fantastic new personal best time of 10h 26m 10s.

Starting his day with a 3.8k canal swim, Julian exited the water in a great time of 1h 11m before getting down to business on the 180k bike course, which takes in the iconic Solar Hill packed with supporters.

A superb bike of 5h 14m saw Julian then take on the marathon distance run and finishing his day with a strong sub 4-hour marathon as he crossed the famous Roth stadium finish line.

Torbay Tri Club members took part in a monthly swim race series at Oddicombe, choosing a distance of 1500m or 750m to test themselves on. Tim Watson took top club honours in the 1500m with a time of 22.42, followed by Andrew Longthorpe 23.15, Peter Hayward 27.19 and Cassandra Pressling 29.39 In the 750m swim Samara Taylor finished in 16.45 and was joined by Laraine Gibbins in 20.16.