There is still an opportunity to volunteer for the AJ Bell World Triathlon Championship Series Sunderland 2023, which will take place next month.
For the first time ever, the UK leg of the World Triathlon Championship Series will be held in Sunderland on the weekend of July 29 and 30. This exciting event will feature thousands of participants engaging in swimming, biking, and running over two action-packed days. The stunning Roker Beach and the Sunderland seafront will provide a picturesque backdrop for the event.
Being held within the qualifying period for the upcoming Paris Olympics, this event will be broadcast live on the BBC and globally. It offers a unique chance to witness the world’s top athletes in action on the streets of Sunderland.
Anticipating around 2000 participants ranging from 4 years old and above, the weekend guarantees participation opportunities for everyone. From elite athletes to individuals embarking on their first triathlon and families joining the Swim Bike Run Mini sponsored by Stoneacre Toyota, there is something for all.
None of this would be possible without the invaluable contribution of volunteers who play a vital role in making the event successful. More than 220 Tri-Makers have already signed up for various roles, both public-facing and behind-the-scenes. Notably, over a third of these dedicated volunteers are from Sunderland.
Among the remarkable volunteers is Laura Kerry from Chapel Garth in Sunderland. After having a wonderful experience volunteering at last year’s British Triathlon Super Series Grand Final in the city, Laura decided to lend her support once again. This year, she will also participate in the BIG Swim Bike Run event on Saturday, July 29.
Laura said: “I’m keen to support local events, I help out with park runs 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 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
