About

The Montgomery Canal Triathlon – one of the biggest events to take place on or near the canal.

The Triathlon is organised by the Friends of the Montgomery Canal and is supported by the Canal & River Trust in aid of the restoration of the Montgomery Canal. It is one of the most popular cross border events, starting in Newtown in Wales and ending in Shropshire.

This is an endurance event – not a race – and entrants can choose to do the whole course or only one or two sections, making it a great day out for families with children, groups of friends, experienced triathletes and those who enjoy just a communal bike ride, paddle or walk.  All entrants who complete a section receive a commemorative medallion made from local slate.

This annual event has had several formats since it started in 2012.  Recently, it has been a special ‘marathon’ length of about 27 - 28 miles

The Triathlon starts at Open Newtown’s riverside venue in Newtown for the 12mile cycling section to Whitehouse.  It will include road crossings at three blockages on the A483 and two at minor roads where bridges were demolished after the canal’s 1944 abandonment.

Then there will be 5 miles by canoe to Pool Quay, through Welshpool Town lock and Pool Quay lock, followed by 10miles miles on foot to the finish at Crickheath (with two more road crossings at blockages on the A483 and two at minor roads).  The walking section0 is generally flat but some oengths are unsuitable for wheelchairs, with some stiles and tree roots.