Gallery: St Albans Mayor's Sprint Triathlon was 'tough, but brilliant fun'

Almost 70 people, from 13 years-old to senior citizens joined the city’s Mayor, Annie Brewster at the community event, which took place in and around Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre.

The sprint triathlon included a five kilometre indoor cycle ride, a 200-metre swim in the centre’s 10-lane, 25-metre pool, and a three kilometre run in Verulamium Park.

The mayor presented certificates and medals to all the athletes, including the winner Peter Clamp.

The deputy head boy at Sandringham School, said: "It was tough, but brilliant fun. I can’t wait for the next one."

Jana Sachlova, who came second overall, and was the fastest woman, added: "It was an excellent event and everyone was very friendly. It was a challenge but very accessible for people of all ages."

The St Albans Mayor said: "The Mayor’s Sprint Triathlon came about through the support of Olympic athlete, Mark Foster, who suggested the distances as the right ones to encourage first-time triathletes to try the sport. Some competitors confessed they had not swum since school. As part of our Olympic Legacy we wanted this to be a real community event, which it proved to be.

"I was overwhelmed by the spirit of the competitors, the majority never having attempted anything like this before, but all finishing in style. Congratulations to everyone on a great achievement, and to the staff at both Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre and Rennie Grove Hospice Care, who organised such a fun day."

Among the competitors was Nitesh Joshi, who competed alongside his niece Rachna Joshi. He said: "I would never have done a triathlon if it was the normal distance. This was an excellent opportunity to get into the sport."

Another first-time competitor was Neil Mason, who said: "Eight months ago I had a kidney transplant and never imagined I could be competing here today. It was tough, but it was my first triathlon."