The Lakesman will host the British and English Triathlon championships next year.
The annual event, held in Keswick, will host the prestigious competitions in June.
Lakesman is a partnership between Cumberland Council, Better and Lakesman Events Ltd, which organises the event each year.
The event has won many local and national awards as well as being nominated as the best triathlon in the UK by Racecheck – the equivalent of Trip Advisor for sporting events.
The event is a 1.2-mile swim in Derwentwater, a bike ride of 56 miles and a well-supported lapped marathon in and around Keswick.
The event attracts 1,000 athletes each year from all over the UK and abroad and this latest accolade will certainly add to that number.
Race director Phil Whitehead said: “The championships are a great chance to further showcase our beautiful county and inspire future generations of athletes. I’m really proud of the whole team involved in planning and organising the event, as well as the athletes and our army of volunteers.”
Event director Marie Whitehead added: “It’s not just that next year there’ll be extra athletes who are some of the best in the country, it’ll also be a real boost to the local economy. Each year the event brings in about £2 million to the area and the competitors are not just staying in Keswick, they’re staying in places like Cockermouth, Carlisle and Workington too.
“We also know from our research that over 40% of the athletes come to the area for training weekends too, normally at quieter times of the year which again is great for the area.”
Darren Crossley, director of place, sustainable growth and transport at Cumberland Council, said: “We are proud supporters of this spectacular event and we’re delighted to hear that it will host a national championship. It’s great for Keswick and the wider Cumberland area. The event gets better each year and attracts visitors to the region, as well as providing the opportunity for people of all ages to get involved.”
Martin Horne, partnership manager for GLL, the charitable social enterprise that operates more than 240 Better leisure centres, added: “On behalf of Better, I’m thrilled to see the Lakesman take centre stage as the British and English Middle Distance Triathlon Championships next year.
“We’ve been proud partners of this incredible event since its inception in 2016, and it’s amazing to witness how it has grown in prestige and popularity.
“The spirit, dedication, and community that define the Lakesman align perfectly with our values, and we look forward to continuing our support for this unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike.”
