Foundation of Light inspiring swim, bike, run with GO TRI Local

Ahead of the World Triathlon Championship Series coming to Sunderland this summer, the Foundation of Light is providing the perfect opportunity to warm-up up for the big event.

AJ Bell 2023 World Triathlon Championship Series Sunderland is a flagship event as part of the collaborative work between Sunderland City Council and Triathlon England to develop swim, bike, run participation and resource within the local community.

Each month Sunderland Aquatic Centre will host GO TRI Local Sunderland – an event that will provide opportunities to join in a combination of swimming, cycling and running activities.  

Eleven year-old Aidan Owens was the first to make a splash. The youngster from Roker, Sunderland took to the water to complete two lengths before running a double lap of the Stadium of Light.  

His mam, Helen was delighted when she heard the event was coming to Wearside after looking for something for Aidan to get involved with: 

“Aidan is a keen runner and enjoys swimming, but he’s never really had anywhere to go or the chance to join in activities.  

“His brother is into football and cricket and is always taking part in events, so it’s nice for Aidan to finally have something to get involved with the sports he is passionate about.” 

GO TRI Local Sunderland brings together the three components of triathlon in an accessible and inclusive manner for members of the community on a regular basis. 

One Sunday a month, the event takes place at Sunderland Aquatic Centre: 19 March, 16 April, 21 May, 18 June and 16 July.  

View dates and sign up here.  

AJ Bell 2023 World Triathlon Championship Series Sunderland will take place on 29-30 July, bringing the best triathletes in the world to the city to swim, bike, run in Roker.  
 
Find out more about the opportunities to get involved in the event here. 

As well as delivering GO TRI Local Sunderland Foundation of Light, the Foundation will also be taking Active Skills for Life into schools across the wider Sunderland area. 

Active Skills for Life is a British Triathlon programme for schools that is built around the national curriculum for PE, giving teachers and deliverers the tools required to provide engaging sessions built around the core physical activity skills of swimming, cycling and running. 

The Foundation will deliver these sessions into a number of schools in their network during the summer term, with members of their team being trained up by British Triathlon to deliver them. The Foundation will also host a schools triathlon from the Beacon of Light in May. 

Not got your entry for 2023 World Triathlon Championship Series Sunderland yet? The event takes place in and around Roker Seafront on 29-30 July 2023, with participation opportunities available across swim, bike, run for individuals and teams, as well as opportunities to volunteer and be part of bringing the event to life. 

Find out more about the event and find the distance that’s right for you here.