Seafront to stage triathlon event

On Sunday, May 23 it is hosting a triathlon - swimming, cycling and running - which race director David Burstow believes will be a winner on several counts.

He said: "Firstly the date is important, as this is early in the 2010 season and triathletes will be keen to shake off the winter blues and put their training to a test.

"Secondly, our route is a major attraction, avoiding not only hills but also any significant traffic or other delaying factors, so that participants can expect to set fast times as a benchmark for the season ahead."

Triathlon is Britain's fastest growing sport, allowing entrants to compete against the clock and against each other, either as individuals or in relay teams, and is open to all ages and abilities.

Young triathletes aren't forgotten either, with a separate event over shorter distances - 100m sea swim, 4km cycle on traffic-free closed roads and a 2km promenade run.

More than 250 entries have already been received, with many more expected over coming weeks.

While many live in London and the South-east, entrants are coming from all over the UK, and even from Germany.

Mr Burstow, a former Lions president, said the idea of staging a triathlon came to him as he took a stroll along Bexhill seafront and realised how well it could lend itself to the event.

Funds raised will go to help St Michael's Hospice, Sussex Air Ambulance and local Lions' charities.

Entries close at midnight on Sunday, April 11. Volunteers to help marshal the event are also being sought. Full details of how to sign up to race or help out can be found by logging on to:www.bexhill-tria thlon.co.uk