Wee club with big heart Grangemouth Triathlon Club will welcome everyone

And Grangemouth Triathlon Club is hoping the interest in bikes helps swell numbers at ‘The Wee Club with the Big Heart’ when it is safe to do so.

Members have been continuing to compete – even with the lockdown – as the athletes take part in virtual races and events which have been organised by a range of athletic disciplines.

But they’re hoping to be joined by a few more new members who have discovered, or re-discovered, an interest in exercise across the triathlon events – running, cycling – or even swimming despite a lack of indoor pool availability this year. Some enterprising members of the club have taken to open water swimming during their permitted exercise time over the last few months.

Alan Ross of GTC explained: “We’ve been thinking it would be a good opportunity to let everyone know a bit more about our club and what we offer as you may be taking this downtime to think about what you would like to have a go at when restrictions are lifted and normality returns.

“If you have recently bought a new bike or dusted down an older model that had been sitting in your shed - if you have recently taken up running at whatever pace suits you - have a think about taking the next step and getting in touch with us. Many current members started on the same path with little confidence but with the help of like minded individuals they have thrived among the cameraderie and social involvement that comes from being part of a small and friendly club environment. If you have felt isolated during this period this could be a great help.

“Our club motto is “The Wee Club with a Big Heart” and it has been our motto since we started up in 2015. It is deeply embedded in the culture and DNA of our members and coaches. We live this motto by charitably helping the local Foodbank, Grangemouth High School PE department and various other good causes locally.

“Triathlon consists of three disciplines – running, cycling and swimming. Don’t worry if any of those disciplines fill you with dread. There are many events held throughout the country that only contain two. If swimming isn’t your strongpoint there are duathlons that contain only running and cycling. Likewise Aquathlons miss out cycling. You really don’t need to be an expert in all three to have a go within the sport.

“There’s little age barrier to taking part. Juniors can come along from age seven and our oldest member is in their 60s. If you want to go as far as competing – it’s not mandatory – all events are age related.

“One thing we would like to emphasise is that this sport is genuinely fun! We have friends that cheer each other on and enjoy the sport for what it is; fun, inclusive and participative.

He added: “Take your time, think about it and when you’re ready Grangemouth Triathlon Club will be here to welcome you to a couple of trial sessions.”

More information is available on the club website.