2 races
Event overview
One of the world’s toughest Triathlons? Certainly one of the most iconic.
Swim in the beautiful clear waters of Ullswater, ride though beautiful Lake District scenery, including “The Struggle,” to the top of Kirkstone Pass, one of Britains most infamous climbs and run up the iconic Helvellyn to its peak at 3118ft.
It is truly a classic of a race; a mix of triathlon and fell race that promises to be an invigorating and challenging day out for all of the competitors.
The swim and bike should not be underestimated and the run summits one of England's most iconic mountains!
This is not just another race; it's an experience that demands a significant level of fitness and determination - brought to you in association with The Brownlee Foundation.
Highlights
Experience Ullswater
Swim in the beautiful clear water’s of Ullswater.
Slay the Struggle
Ride though beautiful Lake District scenery, including “The Struggle,” to the top of Kirkstone Pass, one of Britains most infamous climbs.
Summit Helvellyn
Run up the iconic Helvellyn to its peak at 3118ft.
This was undoubtedly the best event I have done for so many reasons.
Challenging terrain
The race is known for being extreme and challenging. This is not a normal triathlon! The bike section includes the steep ascent of "The Struggle" to the top of the Kirkstone Pass. The run involves ascending and descending Helvellyn, England's third highest mountain, on rugged, off-road terrain.
Test of endurance
Helvellyn Triathlon stands as a test of endurance, challenging athletes with its chilly swim, challenging cycle, and rugged run, all set in the demanding terrain of the Lake District.
Reputation and recognition
It's considered one of the toughest triathlons in the world. This reputation adds to its allure for many athletes who are eager to test their limits against such a demanding course. It provides an inspiring and challenging day out for any competitor.
Event photos
Event details
- Average fitness
- Teams
- Bag storage
- Mountains
- Rural
Event HQ
Glenridding
Glenridding
Penrith
Cumbria
CA11
UK
Transition
The start and finish, and transition are all on Jenkins Field, on the edge of Lake Ullswater. It is a stunning location for participants and supporters.
Having done triathlons of all distances, in many places with many organisers this was undoubtedly the best event I have done for so many reasons. The challenge the course represents is real, the marshals are the best in the business, the beauty of the event is unrivalled and the organisers have nailed the small scale community feel. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone in search of a challenge they will remember forever. Stuart N
The routes and the challenge. I also found it to be an exceptionally friendly event. Walking up the hill is very different from the normal half marathon slog. We all talked much more. I also found that I was less time pressured. I didnt have a target time and that meant I just enjoyed myself much more. The photos were exceptionally good.
The course. Such an iconic event and route is the perfect balance of challenging and manageable.
The location is stunning and as a result the triathlon is unique. Well organised and a true physical challenge.
What a race - it's not standard in any kind of way. Richard R
This is a truly unique event, I've raced the very first event and come back most years to race it again, a complete favourite. Christine H
If you are looking for a real challenge for a triathlon, then look no further. Short of doing an Iron Man, this has to be the toughest triathlon out there, and also the most rewarding and exhilarating. Scott P
Awesome scenery, as my first time really enjoyed it felt safe and I'd say I underestimated how hard it really was. Great event being a bit different from the norm. David R
This race was awesome from start to finish. The swim in Ullswater was beautiful, the cycle was fast and challenging and the run was a killer. The views the whole way round are amongst the best in Britain. That coupled with friendly Marshall’s and great support the whole way around the run made this event special. Paul B
This is a must do race. Awesome. Jim P
I'm British but I traveled from Taiwan where I live to participate in this race. In short, the race was well worth traveling for. The atmosphere, organisation, views, weather and course were all excellent. The climbs were definitely challenging, but provided you cycle up some hills and do some trail running/hiking in your training, you should be good-to-go. George B
Reviews thanks to RaceCheck