OVER 100 competitors from all over the UK gathered early at Dwyfor Leisure Centre to participate in the Pwllheli Triathlon - and it was an athlete from Manchester who took top prize.

The unpredictable weather threatened the day, and with safety being paramount, it was decided the cycle element would be dropped from the event.

Despite the miserable spring weather, friends and families turned out to cheer the participants along as they swam the 400 meters and ran the 5 kilometres into the gruelling wind along south beach and the inner harbour in Pwllheli, before finishing back at Dwyfor Leisure Centre.

After all the preparations Sam Walsh from Manchester won the men’s race, with Phil Lynes finishing in second place.

“It was a shame about the weather but swimming and running are my stronger disciplines so it worked out well,” said Walsh, who is originally from Manchester, but now lives in London.

“This was a nice warm up to the season as I’m trying to get into the GB squad.”

Jasmine Bowyer, from GOG Triathlon Club, was crowned the women’s winner.

William Beaumont Piper and Llinos Jones from Betsi Runaways were victorious in the junior age group, while Malcolm Harrison, again from GOG Triathlon Club was first over the line in the Over 60s.

Carl Machin from Pwllheli was the first local across the finish line, whilst in the team race Doli Racers One took first place and Doli Racers Two were second.

“I’ve only been running since just before Christmas," said Machin, who was competing in his first triathlon. “I decided to sign up for this event as something to aim towards with my training.

"The wind made it a bit more difficult than I anticipated but it was a great experience. My next challenge is Abersoch 10K.”

Prysor Aled was the first novice across the line and finished a respectable 11th position overall.

David Hughes, Plas Heli’s Community Development Officer and organiser of the Pwllheli Triathlon, commented: “It would not be possible to organise an event like this one without the support of our sponsors Harlech Food Service, Spar Pwllheli, Firmhelm Boatyard, the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and all volunteers.”