Triathalon cycle stage, Stanhope.

The Weardale Triathlon, organised by Wear Valley District Council, is one of the oldest triathlons in the north of England, having started in the 1980’s when the sport was in its infancy. In those days the competitors had to brave a 1500m swim in Waskerley Reservoir in the Pennines followed by a cycle course over the moors to Stanhope and then a descent through Weardale to Crook There the event was concluded with a tough 10kms run around the country lanes of Roddymoor. The more recent races have started in the Baths at Stanhope, with both the cycle stage and running stage starting and finishing in Stanhope. 

This photograph was taken as the competitors were on the return stage heading back to Stanhope. I panned the camera as the bike came towards me and followed it even after I had pressed the shutter. the important thing is to leave space in front of the bike to give the impression it has somewhere to move into.