Still time to volunteer

The UK leg of the World Triathlon Championship Series is coming to Sunderland for the first time over the weekend of 29 and 30 July. The event will see thousands of participants swim, bike, run across two days of action against the scenic backdrop of Roker Beach and the Sunderland seafront. 

Taking place within the qualifying window for next summer's Paris Olympics, the event which will be broadcast live on the BBC and worldwide, is a chance to see the world's elite in action on the streets of Sunderland. 

With an expected 2000 participants aged from 4 years up set to take part, the weekend also promises participation opportunities for all, ranging from elite athletes to individuals venturing out on their first triathlon, and families taking part in the Swim Bike Run Mini sponsored by Stoneacre Toyota. 

None of this could happen without the volunteers who play such a crucial part in making it all happen. Upwards of 220 volunteers have already signed up to be Tri-Makers in a range of public facing and behind the scenes roles. Over a third of the volunteers who have so far signed up are from Sunderland.

One of those is Laura Kerry from Chapel Garth in Sunderland, who after volunteering at last year's British Triathlon Super Series Grand Final in the city, enjoyed it so much that she has put her name down to help out again. Only this year she is also taking part in the BIG Swim Bike Run event on Saturday 29 July.

Laura said: "I'm keen to support local events, I help out with park run and I like to do my bit. You get to meet such a lot of different people. I really enjoyed being involved in the event last summer. 

"This year with it being the World Championship event it will be even more exciting, especially as I'm also taking part in the swim bike run on the Saturday.

"I used to do triathlons although I haven't done one for 6 years. When I volunteered last year I didn't realise there was a mass participation event so this year I've put my name down for it. I'm hoping all my family will come down to cheer me on.

"Volunteering is a really good opportunity to give something back to the city because the better organised these are the better the chance of having other big events in the city. You're also getting to view a world class event."

Last year Laura's role involved helping out in the transition area where swimmers coming out of the sea speedily swap their swimming gear for their cycles with not a second to spare. And although she doesn't know what she's going to be doing this time round she's just happy to be involved.

She added: "I'll do anything as long as I'm involved. It's something I've always been happy to do. This one is a world class event so that's going to be massive, it's going to help put us in the map as well as giving local businesses a boost."
   
Sunderland City Council, which is partnering with British Triathlon to deliver the UK leg of the World Triathlon Championship Series, is encouraging anyone interested in signing up as a volunteer at the event to come forward.

Councillor John Price, Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, said: "Events like the World Triathlon Championship Series couldn't happen without brilliant volunteers like Laura. They play a crucial role in helping everyone to feel welcome and keeping the event running smoothly.

"We're lucky enough to have some fantastic volunteers in Sunderland. They made an enormous contribution at last summer's British Triathlon Super Series Grand Final and their support will be equally crucial this July.

"Signing up as a volunteer is a great opportunity to be part of a major international sporting event which will see some of the world's best athletes in action on our fantastic seafront. 

"There are all sorts of opportunities available, from engaging with spectators and working with the media to marshalling routes as the athletes compete and helping to support the delivery of the event in one of the many other public facing and behind the scenes roles we're looking to fill. So, we'd love to hear from you.

"Signing up to be a Tri-Maker, you will be contributing to the success of one of Britain's most prestigious triathlon events. It's also the chance to experience an event like you've never experienced before by volunteering to be part of an exciting weekend of swim, bike, run."

To find out more about volunteering, taking part or coming along to AJ Bell 2023 World Triathlon Championship Series Sunderland, visit:  www.mysunderland.co.uk/swim-bike-run