THE action has moved onto Grafham Water near Huntingdon where another open lake swim awaited Emma Sowden yesterday (May 21st) in her first triathlon of the year.

Equivalent to a half-Ironman, the route comprised a 1.2-mile swim, 55-mile cycle ride and 13.1-mile run which she completed in her target race time of six hours 15 minutes reflecting her growing fitness level. Having achieved a personal best time the previous week over an Olympic triathlon distance, she had been determined to push herself on this occasion. Our picture shows Emma crossing the finishing line.

To ease the strain on her body, the next few days will be about relaxation with just two runs, two swimming sessions in the local pool, one bike ride and regular yoga which helps both mind and body. Here at Bowen Supplies HQ we don’t think this sounds particularly relaxing but compared to Emma’s usual punishing schedule of daily long runs and cycling, the programme is positively gentle!

“I really pushed myself in the Grafman yesterday and my whole body ached afterwards,” she said.  “Afterwards it was a struggle between ‘bath or bed’ but I had a soak in the crystals which was very relaxing and sent me into a sound sleep. “My legs feel tired today but no puffiness around the knees I am pleased to say.”

Known as the Grafman Triathlon this was an important race as it is full-on practice for the main event in July when Emma will be competing in her first UK Ironman.  The next big event on her training schedule is an 80-100-mile cycle race next weekend.

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