Here at VoluntEars we believe it’s good to spice up our lives every so often, have something big to focus on and look forward to, and complete a challenge once in a while. These things keep us positive, give us motivation, and bring us together as a friendly community that supports and encourages each other.

So…we are pleased to announce we’ve had a VoluntEars team entry accepted in the Blenheim Palace Triathlon 2022!

Would you like to be a part of it?  Find out more below…

The start of Blenheim Palace Triathlon

What is it?

It’s a “Team Relay” triathlon which means a team of three people do the race together. One person starts by doing the swim, then the second person takes over and does the cycle, and the third person runs to the finish where the whole team can cross over the finishing line together.

This triathlon is called a Sprint distance because it’s short. The distances are:

• Swim: 750m
• Cycle: 20km
• Run: 5.4km

It’s a really good distance because it’s not too hard to train for, it’s over quite quickly and it’s great fun for spectators as there’s lots going on in a short space of time.

You can read more about a team relay here

Cyclists in front of Blenheim Palace

Who can join the VoluntEars relay triathlon team?

We want to make a team of 3 people from our pool of amazing volunteers. If more people want to enter we will enter another team.

Anyone who is willing to put the effort into training can request to join the team.

Don’t worry if you have doubts about your fitness levels – there is time to train and we can even help you make a training plan. Half the fun will be keeping in touch to help motivate each other through highs (and lows!) of training before the event.

If you want to get involved but not actually compete then come along on race day and support our team. We would love to see you there and the more supporters we have the faster the team will go (maybe!). It’s a beautiful place to spend a day, bring a picnic, relax and give us encouragement.

Why are we doing it?

Because at VoluntEars we believe in challenging ourselves to do amazing things which we can be proud of. Some of these things are out of our comfort zone and might make us question why we’re doing it, but the sense of achievement at the end is fantastic.

During our trips we often notice how people can thrive when they challenge themselves to do something they’ve never done before. Doing a sports event like triathlon is just another fun challenge and coming together as a VoluntEars team means we already have a common bond and can help and support each other to make it fun and enjoyable.

It will also help raise awareness of the work which VoluntEars does around the world.

Run through the park and then finish the race with your team mates

Do I have to raise money?

We ask that you raise at least £44 per person to cover the entry fee. If you want to raise more money then 100% of the additional funds will be spent at one of our partner Deaf schools abroad. We will share photos showing how the money was spent.

How will being D/deaf impact on my ability to participate?

It won’t.

VoluntEars is working with the event organisers to ensure it’s fully inclusive from start to finish. All the rules and general race information will be explained in BSL before the event starts. Additionally, VoluntEars staff will be with the VoluntEars relay triathlon team throughout race day to give smooth communication and assistance (just like on our trips) so everyone has a positive and fun experience.

This shows the course for the swim, cycle and run legs of the race

What will I need?

Of course some equipment will be required but remember this is a friendly amateur event so you don’t have to spend lots of money on professional equipment.

Compulsory kit:

• Swimmer: wetsuit
• Cyclist: bike, cycling helmet
• Runner: t-shirt, shorts/leggings, running shoes

What will I get?

• Limited edition VoluntEars Triathlon t-shirt
• Official medal (see photo below – it’s lovely and big and heavy to impress your friends!!)
• Official race time
• Goodie bag
• Massive sense of achievement and another lifetime memory
• A fun day out for you and your family and friends

A medal to be really proud of

When is it?

Saturday 28th May 2022.

Where is it?

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, OX20 1PP

How to get involved

Contact our Director Richard Clowes and tell him you’re interested or have questions. You can reach him at: [email protected] or whatsapp / sms: 07713 752124

Challenge yourself and make another lifetime memory!

Swimmers ready to start – if THEY can do it, YOU can do it! Contact us today to find out more : )

What are you waiting for?

More info: [email protected] or whatsapp / sms: 07713 752124