The countdown is on: Hever Castle finale just weeks away!
As September begins, the Castle Race Series season is racing towards an epic finish, and there’s so much to look forward to in the coming weeks.
On a personal note, I’ve just returned from the Scilly Isles after completing the Scilly Swim Challenge — an incredible event combining long swims between the islands. It was a tough but unforgettable experience, and it reminded me of the same endurance, camaraderie, and spirit that make our Castle events so special.
The countdown is on for the legendary Hever Castle weekend, now less than three weeks away. With triathlons, duathlons, aquabike, aquathlon, runs, swims, junior races, as well as the 2026 Standard Distance Triathlon World Championship Qualifier!
It’s set to be the biggest event of the year. The festival atmosphere, roaring crowds, and iconic courses make it the perfect way to finish the season in style.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. October brings the Commando Obstacle Mud Run back to Hever Castle — an obstacle-packed adventure across mud, swings, caves and crawls that’s ideal for teams or anyone looking to take on something completely different before winter sets in.
You’ll also find information on water quality testing, training camps in the sun, final Alzheimer’s Research UK charity places at Hever, swim holiday camps, and how to volunteer for a free race entry. It’s all in this month’s news — giving you everything you need to plan the rest of this season and beyond.
Scroll down and dive into our September News Blog — whether you’re racing, supporting, or spectating, we can’t wait to see you at the castle gates!
Brian Adcock
Race Director, The Castle Race Series
FINISH THE SEASON IN STYLE
The countdown is on — less than 3 weeks until the epic season finale at Hever Castle! Get ready for an unforgettable weekend as thousands take on the legendary Hever courses, recently ranked among the world’s best triathlons by 220 Triathlon.
From the 2026 Standard Distance Triathlon World Championship Qualifier , to duathlon, aquabike, aquathlon, runs, swims, and junior races — this is the ultimate test of endurance and spirit.
Soak up the festival vibes, roaring crowds, and claim your final medal of the year.
Take on the Commando Challenge!
Join us at Hever Castle on 11–12 October for the ultimate obstacle course adventure. Conquer 3K, 6K, or 12K of mud, swings, and crawls — the perfect autumn challenge!
Get 20% off with code GETMUDDY20 or up to 30% off for groups. Bring friends and finish the season strong!
FINAL CHARITY PLACES!
There are only a few Alzheimer’s Research UK charity entries left for Hever Castle! Secure your spot from just £10 and raise funds for life-changing research.
From the 10K to the Gauntlet half-iron, you’ll receive dedicated support throughout your journey. Charity place bookings close 15th September.
TESTING THE WATERS
Your race experience matters — and that includes the water you swim in. We run a strict testing programme to ensure it meets the highest standards. Samples are taken six, four, and two weeks before race day, with extra daily checks in the final week for river-fed lakes.
Results are published on our website and graded from Excellent to Poor. If quality ever poses a risk, we’ll adapt or cancel swims to keep you safe.
Your Next Swim Adventure
Take the next step in your open water swimming journey on a SwimTrek coaching camp. Train with world-class coaches in stunning locations, from Mallorca to Croatia and Cyprus.
Designed for all levels, SwimTrek’s coaching camps help you prepare for races, challenges, or simply build confidence.
With expert technique, video analysis, seminars, and pool and open water sessions, you’ll gain the physical and mental skills needed for your next big swim.
Why You Might Not Be a B Cup
Finding the perfect sports bra can feel like a nightmare! Having to not only figure out your ideal style but also your correct size. Sometimes there can be conflicting advice too!
Which is why our friends at MAAREE thought they’d clarify everything for you. Read our latest blog to find out how to get your free bra fitting and get 15% off any purchase.
Hever Wetsuit Hire
Hire your wetsuit from Adventure Kit Hire – from just £25.
• Just 15 miles from Hever!
• Book a fitting or order online
• Collect on-site race day
• Flexible sizing, top quality
• 10% off with code CASTLE10
Sustainable. Affordable. Race-ready.
My dad’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis took 10 years – we must do better
People living with dementia are diagnosed an average of 3.5 years after they first notice symptoms. And in some cases, the wait can be much longer.
Eleanor’s dad, Mike, was diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s disease over 10 years after his first symptoms appeared.
For World Alzheimer’s Month, Eleanor shares how this drawn-out process impacted her family and explains why she supports our petition to government to improve diagnosis.
BESPOKE CLUB KIT
Scimitar sets the standard in bespoke club kit. Our premium-quality apparel is engineered for performance, built for durability, and tailored to your identity.
Don’t settle for less, equip your club with a kit that commands respect. Start a conversation with our team today.
Training Camps
As we near the end of the summer, that doesn’t mean we have to resort to training indoors or in the cold. Join Tri Training Harder on their warm weather training camps this winter.
The camps are fully coached, allowing you a brilliant opportunity to get some great miles in the sunshine under their expert eyes. Chase the sun!
RACE FOR FREE
Want a free race entry at Hever or next season? Join our Trading Places Scheme! Volunteer for just one day at any of our events and earn a free race place at any Castle Race Series venue in 2026.
Enjoy free camping, exclusive perks, and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes race day magic happen.
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