World Triathlon Championship completes UK leg in Sunderland

For the first time, Sunderland hosted the British leg of the prestigious competition as many seek to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The elite event was held at Roker Beach, where 2,000 competitors in 34 combined swimming, cycling and running events.

Commonwealth silver medallist Mathias for Great Britain, starting just her third WTCS event, was cheered across the line in 23rd place after stellar performances on the swim and bike legs.

“I really enjoyed myself,” she said. “The crowd were amazing. I had a bit of a tough day, but they made a massive difference and never gave up on me.

“They kept on cheering the whole time and I really appreciated it. The Brits came out again.”

French-born Pierre Le Corre took first place in the championship series today securing a time of 54.6 seconds.

Barclay Izzard was the only Brit to finish in the top 10 securing a time of 54.32 seconds, finishing eighth.

For the elite women’s race Cassandre Beaugrand of France secured first place with a time of 59.53 seconds.

The North East town was awash with sports this weekend as just yesterday (Saturday, July 29) the Big Swim was also held in the town.

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The event allowed youngsters and their families to have a go at a mini-triathlon, swimming 200m, biking 10km and running 2.5km.

Then, older athletes had their shot at the course whilst supportive friends and family cheered them on from the sidelines.

The sun was luckily shining for the happy participants who were snapped before the big event in their droves at the beach.

Check out pictures of the event below: