Belvoir Castle 2025 Race Report
21.07.25
On Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July 2025, the magnificent Belvoir Castle welcomed us back for the second edition of the Castle Race Series Triathlon and Multisport Festival.
Despite frequent downpours and a mix of sunshine and showers, spirits stayed high as athletes took on our now-established courses, which once again proved a hit across all distances.
The event village buzzed with energy as supporters—umbrellas in hand—cheered athletes over the finish line in front of the iconic castle backdrop.
Belvoir is truly a one-of-a-kind place to race, made even more special by the unwavering support of our spectators, rain and all.
DAY ONE - 27 JULY
Saturday kicked off the weekend with an action-packed day of racing, and not even the rain could dampen the spirits at Belvoir Castle.
Despite on-and-off showers throughout the morning, the atmosphere remained electric. Athletes and supporters alike embraced the mixed weather, with plenty of smiles at the finish line and cheers echoing across the estate.
We began with the Sprint Plus and Sprint Triathlon events, followed by fast-paced Duathlon, Aquabike, and Aquathlon Sprints. A huge congratulations to Paul Sellens (02:07:02) and Corinna Traurig (02:27:23), who led the pack to win the Sprint Plus Triathlon in impressive style.
Late Morning
As the skies cleared briefly on Sunday, the Super Sprint and Starter Triathlons kicked off alongside the opening events of our Swim Series. Athletes of all levels took on the fast-paced courses with enthusiasm.
Congratulations to Super Sprint winners Tom Parrott and Sally Deacon for their strong performances.
A highlight was Bailey Matthews, competing in his 10th Castle Race Series wearing his iconic race number ‘1915’—the same he wore at age 8 in his first triathlon at Castle Howard. His courage and joy inspired everyone.
In the challenging 5K wetsuit swim, Chris Malpass (01:09:22) and Lucy Cottee (01:28:04) battled tough conditions to take victory.
The Younger Juniors
By the afternoon, the rain returned—but so did the energy, as our youngest athletes took centre stage. The 9–10 and 11–12-year-olds tackled the youth triathlon events with grit, focus, and infectious smiles, undeterred by the wet and slippery course conditions.
These races formed part of the Triathlon England East Midlands Junior Series, giving young competitors the chance to earn valuable points and gain experience in a supportive, competitive environment.
They were met with huge cheers from families and spectators, creating a brilliant atmosphere and a heartwarming finish to a weather-challenged but joy-filled Saturday. It was a true celebration of junior sport, resilience, and the future of triathlon.
SUNDAY - DAY 2
At 8am on Sunday, Gauntlet participants began the half iron distance race: 1.9k swim, 90k bike, 21.1k run. Alzheimer’s Research UK ambassador Callum Stedman (04:18:44) was first overall, with Francesca Gardner (05:24:05) leading the women.
Congrats to standard distance duathlon winners Dan Geisler (02:11:26) and Rachel Wiseman (02:24:01), in a World Championship qualifier.
Other athletes pushed through tough conditions in the standard triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon, and aquabike. Notable wins included Rhys Richards (01:15:21) and Isabella Harris-Johnstone (01:27:37) in the Aquathlon, and Thomas Wood (02:21:55) and Victoria Rothwell (02:51:19) in the Olympic Triathlon.
Run Series
The Run Series welcomed an enthusiastic crowd across the marathon, half marathon, and 10K distances, with many returning to take on our well-established and much-loved routes.
Despite mixed weather, spirits stayed high. With hills, varied terrain, and unpredictable conditions, this well loved trail run was no easy feat — but for many, that was the appeal. As one runner put it: “You never quite knew what was coming next… it was challenging, but that’s what made it memorable.”
Huge congratulations to our marathon winners, Lee Baynton (03:03:54) and Holly Blockley (04:10:08)!
Junior Races Shine Despite the Rain
On Sunday afternoon, the Junior Races brought energy and enthusiasm to a very wet Belvoir Castle. Despite the rain and tricky conditions underfoot, the 13–14 and 15–16-year-old athletes tackled the course with grit and big smiles.
These races also formed part of the Triathlon England East Midlands Junior Series, and it was great to see so many youngsters take part and enjoy racing in an encouraging environment.
It was a fantastic showcase of young talent, determination, and resilience. From start to finish, the spirit on course was nothing short of inspiring. A huge well done to all who took part!
Racing for a Cure
Throughout the weekend, athletes raced through rain and hills to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Professional triathlete and ambassador Callum Stedman won The Gauntlet in style. Other standout efforts included Aimee Allard (£1,000, 5km swim), Ruby Richardson (£500, first half marathon) and Claire Peresson (£525, Aquathlon Standard).
Together, they’re helping change the future for those affected by dementia — because Alzheimer’s Research UK exists for a cure.
A few words from Brian
Race Director Brian Adcock said ”
Race Director Brian Adcock said:
“What a weekend! Despite the challenging weather conditions, the atmosphere was electric and the racing was phenomenal. Now in our second year at this incredible venue, it’s clear we’ve found something truly special — a location that continues to challenge and inspire in equal measure.
A huge thank you to the entire team behind the scenes whose hard work made the event possible, and to Belvoir Castle for once again providing such a stunning and iconic backdrop. Congratulations to everyone who took part — we can’t wait to welcome you back for year three on 18–19 July 2026.”
JOIN US IN 2026
The spectacular setting of the castle and lake at Belvoir Castle provided the perfect backdrop for a superb weekend of racing, coupled with the fabulous weather and festival atmosphere it was a fantastic weekend in Leicestershire. We hope to see you next year on 18th and 19th July 2026!
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