The first ever river-based triathlon in Kilkenny took place over the weekend. Over 500 triathletes of all ages and abilities set off on the taxback.com sponsored event which began with a bracing swim in the River Nore.

The Olympic distance event was won by Mark Horan who finished the race in an impressive 2 hours, 1 minute and 30 seconds. “It was a really great race. I really enjoyed it and I am delighted to have won the Olympic event.”

There was only 41 seconds between Horan and Olympic distance runner-up, Davin Power which made for an exciting finish.

Bronagh ni Bhriain, who hails from Kilkenny, was the fastest female triathlete in the Olympic event, having finished the race in 2 hours and 19 minutes. Deirdre O’Toole and Hugh Carberry took the honours in the ladies and men’s sprint distance event.

This is one of the most picturesque triathlon routes in Ireland as it also encompassed a run through Kilkenny Castle Park and finished up in the newly refurbished Parade Plaza. Happily early rain gave way to sunshine so the city could be seen in its best light.

“The event was a tremendous success and was an ideal showcase for Kilkenny,” said taxback.com CEO, Terry Clune. “It has attracted a lot of visitors to the region and provided a boost to a lot of local businesses.”

“Demand for places in this triathlon and interest in the event has been really exceptional with all the entry slots being snapped up over a month before its start date” said race organiser Lorraine Murphy, originally from Kilkenny. “There has been terrific support from many local organisations and the community generally.”

Following the success of the event, it is hoped that the Kilkenny Triathlon will become an annual event in the Irish sporting calendar.