The Royal Windsor Triathlon returned on Sunday 17 June 2018, and this year featured the brand new ‘Macmillan Beginner’s Wave’ aimed at encouraging newcomers to the sport.

Organised by leading mass events company Human Race, the iconic Royal Windsor Triathlon has cemented its place as one of the top races in the triathlon calendar. Created in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support – the official charity of the Royal Windsor Triathlon – the new ‘Macmillan Beginner’s Wave’ aims to get first timers to give triathlon a try. Those signing up to join the wave will receive extra support, tips and guidance throughout the months of training, including exclusive offers from event partners British Bike Hire, Zone3 and Optimum Nutrition.

Participants signed up to the wave tackled a Sprint distance triathlon, encompassing a 750m swim in the River Thames, a 20km bike round the streets of Windsor and a 5km run which takes triathletes into Windsor Great Park and along the spectacular Long Walk. On race day, those in the ‘Macmillan Beginner’s Wave’ were placed in a separate wave just for newcomers, with dedicated crew to assist in transition, and a beginner-friendly comprehensive race briefing.

Whilst fundraising isn’t compulsory when entering the wave, Macmillan hope that many beginners choose to support the charity and help them reach and improve the lives of those living with cancer.

“Macmillan only exists because of generous supporters who do amazing things for us, like the Royal Windsor Triathlon,” says Kathryn Cheshire, Macmillan Challenge Events Manager. “We are delighted to be able to offer additional support to first time triathletes who might have a few extra nerves about taking on their first triathlon and hope this will help us raise over £70,000 for people living with cancer.“

“Triathlon continues to grow year-on-year but it’s important that we do as much as we can to introduce more people to the sport,” says Nick Rusling CEO of Human Race. “Research from the last TIA report shows that 58% of non-triathletes would appreciate help with training, as well as easy access to equipment and friendly social race experience, which is definitely what we are looking to offer here as part of the ‘Macmillan Beginner’s Wave’ at the Royal Windsor Triathlon.”

For more information and to sign up for 2019, visit the Macmillan Beginner’s Wave webpage.