Dearne Valley Quad 2023

It’s been a fabulous day at Manvers Lake today for the 2nd Race in the BQA Series. Congratulations to everyone who raced today in the ‘tropical’ conditions, it was certainly a hot one!

The BQA would like to say a Huge Thank -You to Mark Benton and his Manvers Team for organising this great race, you are a wonderful ‘Team’ of people thank you for your enthusiasm and for inspiring so many to take to the water and embrace the challenge, you have put so many smiles on peoples faces today. Without a doubt it’s such a fabulous feel good event, enjoyed by everyone, from seasoned athletes to first timers it was so good to see everyone just loving the day!

Thanks also to ‘David and Caz Jones’ who have been organizing Quad Training Days throughout the year and encouraging newcomers to our sport, they do a fantastic job to introducing people into our sport!

We started the morning at 8.30 with the QuadKidz Tri and Quad race a huge well done to them, they were all amazing all finished their races in fantastic style , most certainly our stars of the future!

The main race started at 9.30 the water was a balmy 22 degrees so wetsuits optional. It was 2 400m laps in the swim, Steve King was first out and looking strong as he went onto the bike, with Clare Addy first lady, followed closely by Gillian Melia.

Steve has been away from Quads for a year or two, but he’d certainly not forgotten how to push hard! He was well clear after the bike, and pulled away in the kayak leg, despite having to stop to adjust his seat, he ran well and went on to take the win comfortably. Newcomer to Quadrathlon was Stuart Jolly he looked strong through out, paddled very well and came in 2nd. Nick Farnell had a good race, and came in just a couple of minuits behind Stuart taking 3rd place.

In the Ladies race, Gill had a strong bike and soon went into the lead, she paddled well and went into the run well ahead of Helen Adams and Clare. Helen moved into 2nd place after the bike, she had a good kayak, but by now the sun was very hot and everyone found the run tough. Clare came in smiling excitably to take 3rd!

A huge well done to all competitors, and especially the lovely first timers to Quadrathlon, they all really enjoyed themselves and were very proud of what they had achieved, lets hope we see them again. There was a great turnout from our BQA Athletes, all racing well as always thank-you for flying the BQA Flag, our small sport needs you! The Quadrathlon Family was at its Best, so much love, encouragement and support; you all inspire each other keep sharing the passion and happy a safe training until the next time.

I’ll keep spreading the ‘Fairy Dust’ … Jean your Fairy Quadmother, who hopefully will be back racing again soon.