The annual Grays Triathlon produced excellent results, with several course records tumbling.

First male was Jon Saunders of Tri Sport Epping, completing the course in 55 mins. 26 secs, which included a course record bike time of 31:06.

Another course record was broken by Southend based Team Viper youth David Crichton, who did the run in a fantastic 17:19.

The women didn't disappoint either. First home was Jess Olsen of Westcliff who smashed the ladies overall course record by 1:52 seconds in 1:03:37, including a ladies bike record of 35:06.

Team Viper's World Championship triathlete Charmaine Wheeler was runner-up overall for the females and a good day for the club was completed by Kristina Marshall winning the under-21 prize.

Tri Sport Epping's large entry for the event was rewarded with the first three places overall, while top local man was fourth placed Gary Poulter, from the host club. Fifth was Greg Deacon (Castle Point Joggers).

Age was no barrier for Daphne Pugh, from Leigh-on-Sea, who soon celebrates her 70th birthday. She completed the course in a very respectable (at any age) 1:31:06.

Published Thursday July 22, 2004

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