23 Dec 04 - The 2005 RAF Triathlon Championships (Standard Distance). 

News from our new Team Manager, John Crewe: 

The latest news from the BTA website is that the Dambuster on 25 June is going to be a Grand Prix Ranking Event, but more importantly, it's also going to be a qualifying event for the Age Group World Champs, which will be in Hawaii next year. So it's a quadruple Whammy; Ranking Event, Worlds Qualifier, but obviously most importantly, the RAF Standard Distance Champs and selection event for the RAF men's team for the Inter-Service Standard Distance Champs - it's going to be a big one! I'll let you know when entry is open.

  23 Dec 04 - Website Back up and Running. Sorry that the website has been down for a few days.  Normal operations have now been restored.  Our old website host has decided to concentrate on big business and clubs etc have been given their notice.  Having now found a new website host, we have now finally managed to transfer all the files over.  If anyone finds a link broken, please let me  know (webmaster raftri.org.uk). 

  15 Dec 04 - Sponsorship.  A meeting took place today with a potential main sponsor for 2005.  It went very well and the company concerned is very interested in us.  We hope to have more news early in the new year.

  6 Dec 04 - 2005 La Santa Tour,  Lanzarote. A message from Mark Saggers.

With Christmas approaching, now is not a good time to mention dosh!  But I will............dosh! Just a reminder that we must be fully paid up 8 weeks prior to departure. Given a few days for administration phaff, I could do with payment by the first week of Feb 05 latest. The exact cost is still not known*, but I should have this figure by mid Jan 05 (still some frantic penny juggling going on in RAFTA Treasurer Land!). However, it is hoped that £425 (half-board) will be sufficient.  Can everyone please indicate whether they will be bringing their own bikes, or whether they require a bike from Club La Santa. We can pre-book bikes at Club La Santa, subject to availability. Bringing your own bikes will cost £30 carriage with the airline. However, there will also be a charge to hire bikes at La Santa and this is likely to be more.  As soon as I have the details of those requiring bikes from Club La Santa, I will check availability; we must be quick on this, as there is another triathlon training camp being held at the same time. Obtaining bikes when we went last Feb was not easy and I would recommend taking your own, but the choice is yours. Anyone requiring a bike bag, let me know, as we may be able to get hold of some for our trip. Finally, it is not too late to put your name on the reserve list. You can e-mail me at saggs raftri.org.uk.  Have a good Christmas all, and may Santa bring you all a lovely new turbo trainer! 

* We are working hard on finding new sponsors.  If new sponsors are found before the end of Feb, we may be able to subsidise the tour further, but don't bank on it!

 29 Nov 04 - John Crewe has now taken over as the RAFTA Mens' Team Manager and will be responsible for all mens' team matters, including Elite and Over 35s.  RAFTA will be entering mens' teams into the Inter-Service Duathlon Champs on 6 April, the Inter-Service Standard Distance Champs on 20 July, the BTA National Team Relays on 6 August and the Inter-Service Middle Distance Champs on 10 September.  Make sure those dates are etched in your diaries now.  John will be aiming to contact all RAFTA male members over the next couple of months outlining event details and the selection policies if applicable.  Also, keep an eye on news for kit orders as all team members are to be kitted out in the latest RAF kit (those of you with 2004 kit are OK) - it's excellent value stuff.  John can be contacted at RAF Waddington on 95771-8056.

 4 Nov 04 - Great Offer but be Quick.  Saucony have offered RAFTA members massive discount on old stock they are trying to shift.  The details are here.  If you want any of the kit, then email Steve 'the kit man!' asap.  It is on a strictly first come, first served basis and only while stock lasts!  Please don't be tempted to buy for friends and family - this deal is strictly for RAFTA members only.

 4 Nov 04 - Accommodation now available for Cosford Training Weekend and Coaching Course.  Initially we had been told that there was no accom at Cosford.  However, the home for sport boys have a trump card and we're in.  Accom requirements to Chris Sturgess please.  You can contact him on Ext 4021 at Cosford.  Or email him on eventcoord raftri.org.uk.

 2 Nov 04 - BBC 3 Hercules Competition. 

• Greg McDonald is taking part in the BBC3 tough guy series, Hercules.  Click here for further info.

 1 Nov 04 - The following decisions were made at today's committee meeting:

• The 2005 RAF Sprint Championships will be on 6 May 05.  Start training!
   

• The 2005 RAF Standard Distance Championships will be at the Dambuster (Rutland Water) at the end of Jun.  This event will also be a formal selection race for the Interservices.
   

• The committee will continue to try and find a replacement sponsor.  The hope is to find a sponsor before the end of the year.
   

• The AGM will be on 5 Feb 05 in conjunction with a training weekend.  Those attending the 2005 Tour MUST attend this AGM.
   

• The next kit order will be submitted on 7 Feb 05 (i.e the AGM is your last chance to order kit for 2005).  This includes Polo Shirts and fleeces.  RAF members will be entitled to a subsidy.
   

• The Middle Distance Interservices will be at the Vitruvian (Rutland Water) on 15 Sep 05.
   

• The next deadline for Triangles articles is 22 Nov 04.
   

• Membership fees will be increased to £10.00 for lottery members and £15.00 for civilians and non-lottery members with effect from 1 Jan 05.  Membership fees have not been increased for many years.  This increase has been forced upon us due to losing Naafi Financial sponsorship.

  10 Oct 04 - Details on the Forthcoming Trg Weekend (20-21 Nov 04) here.

  5 Oct 04 - Level 1 Triathlon Coaching Course 17-19 Nov 04 - Names needed NOW! 

Final details have arrived for the BTA Level 1 course, a letter and timetable is attached. If you are interested, you will need to contact Brad asap. Individuals will need to arrange their own accommodation in the relevant messes at RAF Cosford. To do the course you do need to be a BTA member, give them a ring on 01509 226161/228321.  There are also places available for the RN and the Army - their websites should include further details but feel free to contact Brad directly.

There will be a training weekend  following the course on the sat/sun, details to follow. This would be a good opportunity to practice some coaching skills under the guidance of our already qualified and experienced coaches!

  4 Oct 04 - Look who is mad enough to do an Deca Ironman.  Tom Sawyer is a senior rate on the Navy Sea Kings.  Many will know him from the Interservices. 

  4 Oct 04 - Is that Pete Russell in 220 Triathlon Magazine?  Cakes at the next training weekend please Pete!

  1 Oct 04 - Ladies Team Manager.  Lindsay is in the Middle East for 4 months and has handed over her RAFTA job temporarily to Debs Pratley.  Debs can be contacted on debs@raftri.org.uk or manager-ladies raftri.org.uk. 

  27 Sep 04 - RAF Sprint Champs.  Message from Chris Sturgess: Thanks to all who took part in the annual RAFTA Sprint Champs at Cosford on the 22 Sep 04. The race was a great success and the feedback received so far has been very positive. An extra special THANKS to those who came down especially to help out with the organization (You know who you are!) without you guys the race would not have gone ahead. The T Shirts arrived the day after-which is handy! I will be endeavouring to post them out over the next few weeks. I should have everyone's sizes from the application forms... If anyone has any suggestions/comments-good or bad then please let me know so that next years race can be even better. Click on the link for the short results...The split times will be available soon-as you can imagine its quite a big job inputting all the data especially when in the process of moving house!

  16 Sep 04 - Race Fees 2004.  The race fees for this year have been calculated and you can view them here.  However, no decision has yet been made on what % you will be refunded next year (it comes out of the 2005 budget).  Any errors or additions to deputymembership raftri.org.uk please.  Big thanks to Jim McFarlane for working it all out!

  1 Sep 04 - Long Distance Interservices.  Massive congratulations to Darren Sharpe who won the Long Distance Interservices for the RAF at HIMUK with a stunning time of 4hr 35mins.

  1 Sep 04 - New RN and RM Website online. www.rnrmtri.co.uk.

  31 Aug 04 - Training Page.  The training page has been updated.  We would love some more training articles, particularly if you have some favourite sessions.  Write to webmaster raftri.org.uk. 

  31 Aug 04 - Contact Details.  Mark Saggers needs to get in touch with the following people; please send him your email address, your rank and your Service No. to saggs raftri.org.uk.

Paul Breeze, Michael Masters, Kev Brock, Sean McHugh, Jim McFarlane

  31 Aug 04 - BTA Level 1 Coaching Course.  A BTA Level 1 Triathlon Coaching Course is due to be held at RAF Cosford on 14-16 Nov 04.  If you are interested (and you should be!) please contact Brad.  This course is open to all RAFTA members and is likely to be subsidised.  You don't have to be a great triathlete to make a great coach, especially at Level 1 where your aim is to get newcomers into the sport and teach them the basics.  It is also intended to hold a Level 2 Triathlon Coaching Course on 31 Jan 05 - 3 Feb 05 followed by the AGM and a training weekend.

  29 Aug 04 - RAF Standard Distance Champs - Wolverhampton 29 Aug 04.  Results are here.  Congratulations to Mat Stephenson and Vicki Webb the 2004 RAF champions.

  24 Aug 04 - HIMUK Results.  Click here.

  24 Aug 04 - RAF Champs - Update.  This race is now closed for entries.  The RAF have 22 entries, 20 male and 2 female.   The RAF list and further instructions can be found here.

  16 Aug 04 - RAF Standard Distance Champs - Wolverhampton 29 Aug 04.  Less than 2 weeks to go until the RAF Standard Distance Champs.  The race could be fiercely contested this year.  Its not too late to enter - click here.  Why not come along to watch if you are not competing?

  16 Aug 04 - Interservices 2005.  The Interservices for next year has provisionally been booked for 20  Jul 05 at Tallington Lakes.

  10 Aug 04 - RAF Sprint Champs @ RAF Cosford.  The Entry Form for the RAF Sprint Champs on 22  Sep 04 at RAF Cosford is here.  This is a fantastic event to make your first ever Tri.

  10 Aug 04 - 2005 Tour.  Details Here - Don't Miss It!

  10 Aug 04 - We have had the following offer from the Army to use their triathlon facilities:

Hi

We run swimming training for services athletes in the Aldershot.  In the past we have only advertised within Army circles but on reflection that is wrong.  The excellent facilities we use at the Garrison Sports Centre and at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) are Defence assets that the other services should be using.  With that in mind would you please advertise our training sessions on your website:

SWIMMING TRAINING FOR TRIATHLETES IN THE ALDERSHOT AREA

Monday 1800 to 1900 - Garrison Sports Centre Aldershot Coached swim session for £1.  60 mins session that caters for all standards from novice to elite.  Just turn up and introduce yourself to Lee the coach or Adrian who keeps the register.  Membership of RAFTA preferred. 

Wednesday 1830 to 2000 - Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in Camberley.  A swim session followed by an optional bike and run set all in the magificent grounds of RMAS.  Book in at the gate and ask for directions to the pool.  Friendly atmosphere with the pool soley for the use of triathlon swimming training.  Membership of RAFTA preferred. 

Thursday 1800 to 1900 - Garrison Sports Centre Aldershot coach planned swim session for £1.  60 mins session that caters for all standards from novice to elite.  Just turn up and introduce yourself and join in at the standard you are comfortable with.  Membership of RAFTA preferred.

For further details on this and other training in the Aldershot area speak with Major Adrian Clark on 01252 836509 (work).  Thanks very much.  If you can encourage any local RAF personnel to join in they would be welcome.

  24 Jul 04 - Interservices

Well done to all those who participated in the IS Triathlon at the Cotswold Water Park on 21 Jul. It was a great race and despite our lack of prize hall in the men's team events we had some great individual performances.  A massive cheer is deserved by the Ladies Team, who picked up the IS runners up! Matt Stephenson was overall winner in the over 35 (Old Boy) competition and Ed Headford in his first Olympic race for years came in as old runner up.  Brad (oh my thigh) Goggin and Lindsay Webber should also be thanked for their efforts as Team Mangers- not an easy task. The organization for next year now rests on the Base Support Team as it is an RAF lead.  IS 2004 Results will be posted on the web when we get them from the Army.  IS over for another year, the next focus is the RAF Olympic Champs on 29 Aug- entry form link below. Click on it, sign up and race!

RAF Champs

  19 Jul 04 - RAF Brize Sprint Distance Triathlon Results Here

  13 Jul 04 - The Latest Interservices Team List is here.  If you want a copy of the Interservices Admin Instruction please email Brad or the Sec.

  1 Jul 04 - Next Committee  Meeting.  The next RAFTA committee meeting takes place on 7 Jul 04.  If you have anything that you would like the committee to consider or discuss, please write to the Sec by 5 Jul 04.

  1 Jul 04 - The Male RAF Team List has been announced for the Interservices at Cotswold Water Park on 21 Jul 04.   If you are on the list, you must ensure that Brad has the following details for you; Full name, Post Title, Work Address, Work Tel No, Email Address, Mobile No., RAFTA No., Age and Date of Birth.  If you are not on the list and think you ought to be (or want to be) or if you want to compete as an RAF guest, write to Brad or the Sec. 

  23 Jun 04 - Lossiemouth Triathlon, Friday 6 Aug 04 (500m swim, 20K bike, 6K run).  Entry Form here.

  23 Jun 04 - National Club Championships.  We are looking to enter teams into the National Relays. For those of you who don't know this is a team triathlon time trial up near Nottingham {and its a blast!}.  This is a top weekend, and a very good race. The race is on the Saturday and we intend to have a social on the Saturday night. Four in a team, mens, ladies, and mixed. Depending on the interest depends on which team events we will enter.  Contact Brad for more details.

  23 Jun 04 - RAF Standard Distance Champs - The RAF Standard Distance Champs take place at Wolverhampton on 29 Aug 04.  It will be a fantastic opportunity to do you first Olympic distance (1.5K Swim, 40K Bike and 10K Run).  The competition will be hot.  If you want to save some money, you'll need to get your application in before 1 Jul 04 to avoid paying more than £33 for entry.  After that it goes up to £37.  Don't forget all RAFTA members will have a good proportion of their race fees returned to them in 2005.

  19 Jun 04 - Odiham Sprint Results here

  16 Jun 04 - Mini Tour Guernsey 17-20 Sep 04.  There's not much time left to sign up - details here.

  16 Jun 04 - The RAF Brize Norton Sprint is the next RAF Sprint Series event.  This is a great event for novices.  Entry form here.

  16 Jun 04 - The Army is running the Standard Distance Interservice Triathlon this year.  The event will take place on 21 Jul 04 at Coswold Water Park.  The RAF team is somewhat depleted following the departure of Tom and Rick in the same year and we are always short of girls.  However, we still have some great talent in the team and we are definitely competitive.  That said, we need more team members.  If you are an RAF lady and you can (or think you can) complete the Standard Distance (1.5K Swim, 40K Bike, 10K Swim then contact the ladies team manager and  you're in!  To meet the criteria to join the men's team you really need to be racing at sub 2.20 but there are also limited guest slots available.  If you would like to race for the RAF contact Brad.  Final point is that if you are a member of a University Air Squadron, you qualify to race for the RAF, so get in touch.

  14 Jun 04 -  The next RAFTA committee meeting is on 7 Jul 04 at Brize.  Any items for the Agenda (from anyone - gripes or positive comments accepted!) to the Sec please on sec raftri.org.uk.

  14 Jun 04 - The boys and girls did great at Windsor yesterday.  The results can be found here.  Fantastic result by Andy Fisher with a 2.07 - awesome.  He was 3rd in his age group and 14th overall.  Brad did well too with a top 25 place.  Our top girl was Debs Pratley on her first ever Standard distance with a 2.46.  It was a hot day with the sun beating down on us; a great event as usual with really uplifting spectator support. AJ crossed the line a good half hour after the webmaster by the way (well he might of started a bit later).

  9 Jun 04 - The next RAF Sprint Event is at RAF Odiham on 16 Jun 04.  Entry Form Here. Over 50 entered already.  Anyone in the RAF can claim transport to the event.

  9 Jun 04 - RAFTA's next event is Windsor 2004 on 13 Jun 04.  At the last count there were 10 RAFTA members entered.  Let's try and meet at 1400 hrs on the Saturday at the helmet checking area. 

  9 Jun 04 - Website back up and running.  A thousand apologies from the webmaster that this site has been inactive for quite sometime.  Having moved house and jobs, I was blessed with a hard drive crash that was unrecoverable and that 'oh, it will never happen to me' mentality lead me to totally ignore people who said, "you really should back up your data".  Its been a nightmare but now I've got a new computer and a new copy of Frontpage, the site is finally back up and running.  Unfortunately, it is going to take me a while to catch up but I'll get there.  Do write to the messageboard if you want to ask any questions of the committee or share news.

  28 Apr 04 - Firstly except our apologies for the delay in updating the website. The webmaster computer has suffer a terminal disease and is waiting to be put out of its misery.   If you have messages for the message board or comments please inform Jim

  28 Apr 04 - The sports board have approved the list of events and travel authority is hereby granted. Please quote RAF/299001/5/1/1/DSB(RAF) Dated 16 Apr 04.

  28 Apr 04 - Due to unforeseen circumstances the RAF Cosford sprint Champs due to be held on the 2nd of Jun has had to be postponed. This is because of the refurbishment of the Cosford Pool.  The committee are currently looking at reorganising the event towards the end of September, date to be finalised. Please watch this space closely for more information.

  16 Mar 04 - The Interservice Duathlon Champs is now confirmed as 28 Apr 04 at Hullavington.  If you want to race for the RAF or as a guest, let brad know. 

  16 Mar 04 - You need to get your order in for the new 2004 kit very soon - the deadline is 1 Apr 04.  No cheque, no order. 

  16 Mar 04 -  The UK Ironman Office report the following:

  26 Feb 04 - The RAF Duathlon Champs take place at RAF Lossiemouth on 4 Apr 04.  Details are available at www.raftri.org.uk/scotland/races.htm

  26 Feb 04 - Simon Bellamy has posted a couple of messages on the message board in regard to upcoming races.  The one I want to bring to your attention is our first Triathlon of the season, the Springfield Sprint Tri on 3 May 04.  The race is very popular and is therefore FULL.  However, Simon has negotiated with the organiser for RAFTA to have 20 guaranteed slots.  So the bottom line is, we need to use them!  It will be a good opportunity to meet up and a great triathlon for you first timers.  The application form is here, but please tell Simon if you have entered so he can keep track of the slots left. His email is basesupport raftri.org.uk

  26 Feb 04 - It looks like the Interservice Duathlon will now be 28 Apr 04.  I hope we can confirm the date very soon.

  21 Feb 04 - Important News on the New Kit here.  Deadline for orders is 1 Apr 04.  There will be a 50% subsidy for all paid up RAFTA members.  Kit can only be delivered to Service addresses.

  15 Feb 04 - The webmaster has been on tour, so sorry page hasn't been updated for a while!  The tour to Lanzarote was quite amazing and I wouldn't mind betting that we'll be going back in Mar 05.  Brad and Simon beasted us all week and now we're all fit and ready to take on anyone!  We had quite a few novices with us who did great - well better than great actually, they were incredible, especially as a few of the training sessions turned into unscheduled races! 

News on the streets is that the Interservices Duathlon may be moved from 14 Apr to 21 28 Apr to get a better attendance - watch this space.  Also, for those who noticed in their BTA booklet that we got missed out this year (so did the Army - we're not happy with the BTA!), you can be assured that we are still an affiliated club. 

Finally, some of you will be waiting on tender-hooks to find out what the sanctioned RAFTA races are for this year. The hold up is that the BTA have still not finalised where or when the National Age Group Champs are taking place.  We'll get word to you asap once the RAFTA list is finalised. 

  4 Feb 04 - Both the Army and Navy are doing some good training weekends for the Pre-season.  There may be some slots for the RAF to join in.  For the Army details see their website, www.armytriathlon.co.uk.  The Royal Navy's dates are as follows:

>21/22 Feb  HMS Temeraire (Portsmouth)
>27/28 Mar RNAS Yeovilton

The Royal Navy don't have a website, so if you are interested contact sec raftri.org.uk  and I'll put you in touch with a knowledgeable Sailor!

  4 Feb 04 -  Triangles Announcement on Unpaid Dues:

  4 Feb 04 - We have received the following prices for 2004 kit which this year we are going to buy from Freedom Sport.  They are great prices and we are going to subsidise kit by 50% (for a limited period) for RAFTA members.  The prices you see below are WITHOUT that subsidy.  We will soon be collecting orders and we'll let you know soon.  We are also trying to get some photos.  The lead-time for the kit is 7-8 weeks.    Any questions then please write to the messageboard.

Tri Vest - £25.95
Iornman vest - £28.95
Tri Brief - 19.95 (No print)
Tri short - 23.50 (No print)
Mens Unitard - 47.50
Speed Suit - 49.50 (Sponsors logo only)
Duathlon top - 31.50
Run Vest - 25.50

LADIES

High neck tri suit - 40.95
Candour tri suit - 39.45
Crop top - 24.45
tri knickers - 19.95

  18 Jan 04 - Due to the closure of the swimming pool at RAF Cosford for refurbishment the date of the RAF Sprint Championship has had to be delayed by 2 weeks.  The event will now take place on 2 Jun 04.

  18 Jan 04 - Wow - what a fantastic AGM and Training Weekend we just had!  For those who weren't there, I have prepared a summary of decisions here.

  16 Jan 04 - Today's ECM has been cancelled.  The rest of the Training weekend remains unchanged.  AGM

  11 Jan 04 - 2004 Interservice Events:

2004 Interservice events are as follows:

• 14 Apr - Duathlon at Hullavington

• 21 Jul -   Triathlon Standard Distance at Cotswold Water Park

• 22 Aug - Triathlon Long Distance Championships in conjunction with  HIMUK, Sherborne, Dorset.

If you would like to represent the Royal Air Force this year, there are plenty of slots up for grabs.  Register your interest with Brad. 

  7 Jan 04 - A BTA Level 2 course is to be held week commencing 19 Apr 04.  Contact Brad for more details.

  7 Jan 04 - AGM Agenda here.  Items for AOB to sec raftri.org.uk before the meeting.

  7 Jan 04 - We currently have a spare space for our RAFTA Tour next month.  First come, first served.  Contact commsdirector raftri.org.uk if you are interested.

  7 Jan 04 - Are Your Contact Details Up to Date?  We are currently updating our membership list - might your details be out of date?  If you think they might be, please pass the following details to deputymembership raftri.org.uk; Full Name, Work Address, Email Address, Work Tel No and finally state whether you are a Sports Lottery Member.  It is in your interest to do this as free T-Shirts will soon be sent out to all current RAFTA members.  Those of you attending the AGM on 17 Jan 04 will get theirs in person.

  5 Jan 04 - Important 'Base Support' Update here.

  5 Jan 04 - Happy new year everyone, lets hope 2004 will be a blinder for       
                           everyone.

  16 Dec 03 - The AGM and Training Weekend is confirmed as 17th and 18th January 2004.  It will be held at RAF Cosford and the training will be led by our newly trained coaches - not to be missed.  Travel is authorised for Serving personnel.  Further details available here.

  28 Nov 03 - The Contacts page has been updated to list our 7 new
                              BTA Level 1 Coaches.

  29 Oct 03 - Training Page has been updated.

  24 Oct 03 - RACE FEES.  You need to submit your claim for 2003 Race Fees to the treasurer at treasurer raftri.org.uk by 30 Nov 03.  Email is fine but provide full name, contact details, work address, RAFTA No., which races you competed in and the cost.  This is a claim is for Race Fees only and you will only receive a percentage back depending on available funds.  You can only claim if you raced under the RAFTA banner and wore RAFTA kit*.  Also be careful that you only claim for those races you were entitled to attend under RAFTA funding.  Any doubt, check here.

*Exceptions will be made for those who did not receive their kit until late Jul.  This will be strictly enforced for 2004 - you have been warned!  The next order for kit will be Feb 04.

  24 Oct 03 - The 2004 RAF Sprint Champs are confirmed for 19 May 04.  Entry details will be available early in 2004.  Any immediate questions can be directed to eventscoord raftri.org.uk. 

  9 Oct 03 - Kit.  Get yourself a bargain on some old (but never worn) RAFTA kit.  Click here.  We have also managed to renew our awesome Saucony deal.  See Triangles for more details.

  9 Oct 03 - Ladies Training Weekend - 25/26 Oct 03.   RAF Odiham will be holding an informal Triathlon Training Weekend on 25/26 Oct 03 for all levels from beginners through to the more experienced. The training weekend will be an excellent opportunity to share training advice, receive some expert tuition, construct a personal programme and meet other like-minded people. We will meet at 1200 at RAF Odiham gym on Sat 25 and finish 1330 Sun 26 Oct. Everyone is welcome so please pass this on to others you think may be interested.  If you would like more information and/or would like to attend please contact Lyndsay Webber at ladiesmanager raftri.org.uk  to secure your place.

  6 Oct 03 - BTA Coaching Course Level 1.  The latest is that the coaching course will now take place at RAF Cosford on 25-27 Nov 03.  This is usually a very expensive course but if you are a RAFTA member and you are prepared to put something back into the organisation, we'll cover your costs - completely!  We should stress that you don't have to be winning races to teach the basics to beginners - so you are good enough - nuff said!   Let Brad know asap if you want to be counted in - its going to be a great few days.

  5 Oct 03 - We now have a new Chairman - Nigel Gorman, who is currently based at Brize Norton.  Welcome to the association Nige.  Rumour has it that Nige has a 52mins to his name for 25-mile TT!

  15 Sep 03 - BTA Coaching Course Level 1.  Brad is organising a Level 1 BTA Coaching Course to be held in the near future at RAF Cosford.  Who is interested?  You don't have to be an elite athlete to be a coach by any means.  Most of you out there are quite capable of teaching youth, novices etc.  It will be a 3-day course.  If you are interested please email Brad at brad raftri.org.uk.  If we don't fill all the places, we'll be offering the spare slots to the Army and Navy, so don't delay. 

By the way, keep Brad in your thoughts and prayers.  All he can do with his leg in plaster is one legged cycle and swim tied to the pool wall with his leg in a waterproof bag!

  5 Sep 03 - With only Bala to go now, it is time to start collecting our thoughts on how this season has gone.  How has it gone for you?  How has it gone for the RAF?  What changes to we need to put in place?  More Olympic size events or more Sprint events?  Any good events that we missed?  How do we encourage more women into the sport? Please write to the message board with your thoughts at messageboard raftri.org.uk.

  1 Sep 03 - The Royal Navy won the Long Distance Triathlon Inter Services Championships yesterday at Sherborne.  We'll 'av 'em next year! More details of the race to follow soon.  Results will soon be available at www.ironmanuk.com.

  1 Sep 03 - The K1 Triathlon Club in Cyprus now have their own webpage.  It can be found at www.k1triathlonclub.org.cy.  Welcome to cyberworld you guys!

  14 Aug 03 - IMPORTANT NEWS ON KIT

Get your orders in for Winter RAFTA Kit by 1 Sep 03 to the kit manager at kit raftri.org.uk and follow your email up with a cheque payable to RAFTA.  No check, no order!  The next order after this one will be 1 Jan 04!

  11 Aug 03 - RAF Classic Distance Championships - Northampton 10 Aug 03

Congratulations to the new RAF Champion, Nige Porter who won with a time of 2:03:53 and came 14th overall.  Congratulations also to our first female Champion for a few years; Jo Bradford had an outstanding race finishing in a time of 2:27:40

Results - click here. 

  5 Aug 03 - 2003 Inter Service Results click here

  5 Aug 03 - RAF Standard Distance Championships - Northampton 10 Aug

Are you ready?  Its going to be a hot one I think.  I would love to know who is doing it as their first Standard Distance - please email me at sec raftri.org.uk.  According to the entrance list (which may be out of date) there are 11 of us racing for RAFTA.  It might not be too late to enter - try here - http://www.justracinguk.com/nts/CLASSIC/classic_2003.htm

It would be great to all meet up.  When you get there Sunday morning you will come into a huge car park - make sure you park in the corner near the Burger King (or McDs?).  Its a bit further to walk but that way we stand a chance of all seeing each other.  Also, please make sure you wear something with RAFTA on it (kit or polo shirt) so we can spot each other.
Piggy backing onto a civilian event is the only way we can do this distance but it has the big disadvantage of being 'just another event'.  So it is up to all of us to try and generate the camaraderie. 

Do you know where you are staying overnight yet?  I stayed in B&B last year as the Service options are limited.  I might stay at Brize this year but it is an early start if you do that.  Any other ideas post to the message board.  Have a good race!

  30 Jul 03 - Kit.  Steve has received the Imp Sport kit order finally.  If you ordered any RAFTA kit and you didn't manage to pick it up at Sherborne, it will be in the post to you soon!  The next order will be submitted on 1 Sep 03 (eight week turnaround time), so if you want to order some winter training kit the 50% offer is still on until the subsidy money runs out - first come, first served.  Orders have to be backed up with a cheque.  Any queries contact Steve at kit raftri.org.uk. 

  30 Jul 03 - Initial Inter Service Report.

Hills, hills, hills!  What a fantastic time we all had at Sherborne.  Congratulations to the Navy for putting on such an outstanding event.  But oh man, those hills!  Unfortunately the RAF had to give their crown over to the Army this year who won the male team event.  The Army also won the ladies team trophy.  Congratulations to them.  Our girls put in a terrific effort.  Four of our team of 5 girls had never done an Olympic distance triathlon before today!  They all completed the event which was one of the hardest Olympic triathlons they will ever have to do!  Well done to all who competed.

Results and full report to follow soon - stay posted!

23 Jul 03 - Arrangements for Inter Services:

Meet at 13.00hrs at 'Jesters' at RNAS Yeovilton.  You should all be able to book in with Military ID cards.  The easiest route into Jesters is to enter by the last gate on the left on the way to Ilchester (not the gate with the Harrier outside).  After booking in turn left at first roundabout and Jesters is on your left.

 

13.15 (prompt!) Start RAFTA Meeting - non committee members welcome

 

15.30 Drive to Sherborne in our own cars for a course recce

 

18.00 Pasta meal in Jesters

 

19.30 Rest of evening free

0700-0800 Registration at Sherborne Castle

 

0900 Race Start

 

PM - Inter Service Meeting - exact time, location tbd (who attends will be decided at our ECM on the 29th)

 

   21 Jul 03 - From our Scottish Rep, Mick Pullin:

   14 Jul 03 - Our Kit Manager, Steve, has negotiated an awesome deal with American Bicycles on the Litespeed Sirius Frameset.  It involves 2 or more people getting together.  The deal is only valid until 31 Jul.  If you are interested email him straight away at kit raftri.org.uk.

   11 Jul 03 - Inter Services are on 30 Jul 03 at Sherborne.

The signal has gone out detailing the team.  Its a massive list but experience tells us that it'll soon whittle down to our 36 places.  If you are not on the Signal but you would still like to compete, contact nige raftri.org.uk.  We are trying to encourage everyone to get down to Yeovilton for 1300hrs on the 29th so that we can all do a course recce.  Transit accommodation is available but we need to know this week.  We will have a meeting and a Pasta meal on the evening of 29th.  After the race there will be an Inter Service meeting for select few. 

It is going to be a great race and we've all got our fingers crossed for the RAF!

   2 Jul 03 - News from Steve Hyett

   2 Jul 03 - News from Mike Pullin

   18 Jun 03 - Representing the RAF.  If you think you've got what it takes to make the
                             RAF team for either the Classic Distance Interservice Champs (30 Jul) or
                             the Long Distance Interservice Champs (31 Aug), both at Sherborne,
                             Dorset, please let Brad or Nige know asap at brad raftri.org.uk and
                             nige raftri.org.uk.

   18 Jun 03 - Fred Harbottle has just received a phone call from a retired RAF friend
                             who works for a national charity and is offering 5 places for the London
                             Tri.  The catch is you will need to raise 500 pounds in sponsorship to get
                             one of the places.  The charity is the Willow Foundation which was
                             founded by the ex-Arsenal goalie Bob Wilson.  It aims to give terminally ill
                             people from 16 to 35 one special day of their choice before they die. 
                             It's a great cause and a good opportunity.  Let Fred know if your are
                             interested at commsdirector raftri.org.uk.   As a reminder, the London
                             event is on 3 Aug. 

   17 Jun 03 - NEW!  Message Board - click here.  This operates by emailing me at
                             messageboard raftri.org.uk and I post them when I get a chance.  We
                             might look at some automatic message board if it becomes popular.  I   
                             reserve the right to not publish messages - especially those from the
                             Army!

   17 Jun 03 - The Windsor results can be viewed here.  Well done to Steve Hyett who beat
                             his PB by 5 mins!  And well done to me (webmaster) for breaking the 2.30
                             mark for the first time!!!  Brad is injured so only did the swim and the bike. 
                             All the Elite Men except the back 3 got disqualified for swimming around the
                             wrong buoy - whoops!

   17 Jun 03 - Some bad news on the RAFTA kit front I'm afraid.  Imp Sport have told
                             us that their turnaround time is 8 weeks at the moment.  We are trying to
                             put pressure on to take delivery of the kit before the Interservices but it is
                             going to be tight.  Contact Steve directly for more details at
                             kit raftri.org.uk.

   14 Jun 03 - Rick Collard had a great result at the Vets National Age Group
                             Championships in Shropshire last weekend coming 3rd in his age group. 
                             He was pipped for 2nd by our old friend and ex-RAFTA member, Tom
                             Doughty (who apparently is now sporting a rather sporting Tim Don
                             hairstyle!)  Although not an official RAFTA race for the other age groups,
                             Andy Fisher came a stunning 1st in his 31-34 age group with a time of
                             1.57.  He was 2nd overall.  Well done Andy!

   14 Jun 03 - Fourteen RAFTA members are entered for tomorrow's Royal Windsor. 
                             That's a great turnout and it looks like being a great weekend.  We'll let
                             you know how they do in a couple of days.  

   5 Jun 03 - Who'd like to see a message board on this website?  If you would, send me
                            some messages or sales/wants or training tips or questions and I'll start
                            one.

   5 Jun 03 - Are you gearing yourself up for your first Olympic distance?  Let me know
                           how it's going.  Don't forget the RAF Standard Distance Champs are at
                           Northampton on 10 Aug 03.

   5 Jun 03 - The RAFTA Kit subsidy (50%) has been extended until 30 Jun 03.  This
                           is a cracking offer.  Make sure you get your RAFTA Kit orders into the
                           kit manager asap.

   29 May 03 - Massive Sale on left over RAFTA Kit - here

   20 May 03 - Cosford Results (including splits) here

   15 May 03 - Interservice Duathlon Champs 9 Apr 03 - results here.

   14 May 03 - Just got home after a fantastic day.  Wow 111 competitors at Cosford,
           that is absolutely brilliant.  Many thanks to all  involved in organising the event so well. 
           We'll publish the results as soon as they are collated by Nige.  Now its time to train
           for your first Olympic Distance.  Don't forget the RAF Classic Distance Champs are
           at Northampton on 10 Aug 03.

   14 May 03 - Don''t forget to order your RAFTA kit by 30 May 03 to take advantage
           of the 50%-off offer.

   14 May 03 - You only have 2 more days to take up a place on the RAFTA tour to
           California 16-25 Jun 03.  Write to commsdirector raftri.org.uk for more details.

   14 May 03 - I'll try and put the new Triangles on the Internet soon.  If you can get
           your hands on a paper copy it's a fantastic read - well done Mike.  Don't forget to get
           your articles into Mike for the next edition.  Write to triangleseditor raftri.org.uk.

   4 May 03 -  How did you do at Cosford last year?  Click Here

   2 May 03 -  Good News.  The Sports Board have authorised us an extra event to
                              attend the National Age Group Championships for your category.  The
                              National Age Group Championships were due to be held at the
                              Dambuster but at the last minute the numbers were capped by the local
                              council. This forced the BTA to split the National Age Group
                              Championships across 3 events.  The events are as follows:

9 Jun - Shropshire - Vets
29 Jun - Chester Deva - Ladies Only
19 Jul - Senior Men (under 40)

Obviously, personnel will only be authorised to claim travel against one of these races.  The Dambuster remains on the calendar as a World Qualifier. More details here.

   1 May 03 - Nige Porter has moved.  If you want to enter the RAF Sprint Champs at
                             Cosford on 14 May, please use the new form here. You will need to print
                             it out and send it in to his new address pronto!

   1 May 03 - Sports Board Travel Auth here (pdf - takes a while to download)

   26 Apr 03 - News from the K1 Club at RAF Akrotiri here.

   25 Apr 03 - A letter from our Kit Manager here.

   17 Apr 03 - 2003's races have been submitted to the Sports board.  The schedule
           including all the regional sprint races can be found here (the hyperlinks are not all done
           yet but they will be soon). 

   3 Apr 03 - What came out of today's Committee Meeting?  See below:

             TOUR 2003 - We are going to California!  Yes, the committee agreed
                   (provided we can get at least 15 people interested) that this year's tour can be to
                   California for the World Military Championships at the Naval Base Ventura
                   County just 45 mins from LA.  The provisional dates are 16 - 25 Jun 03. 
                   Names and deposit cheques for 100 pounds are required to the treasurer by
                   16 May, preferably sooner.  

             RAFTA KIT.  We want EVERYONE, and we mean every single RAFTA
                   member to wear RAFTA kit at their races (and for training!).  We want you to
                   wear the kit so bad we are offering brand new kit at an incredible 50% off.  This
                   is a genuine saving to you.  Put it another way, for every piece of RAFTA kit you
                   order, RAFTA will pay for half of it.  This is a very limited offer - to take
                   advantage your order has to be into the Kit Manager (Steve Warner at
                   Uxbridge) by 31 May 03. 

                   As well as the carrot, there's also a bit of a stick (but a fair one!).  We have
                   decided that if you are competing in the name of RAFTA and you are not
                   wearing the kit, you will not be able to claim the race fee subsidy. Hard rules!

            SPONSORSHIP DEALS.  Our main sponsor is NAAFI Financial.  They pay
                  us a generous sum each year and even more if you buy their products in the name
                  of RAFTA.  However, did you know that we also have great deals with
                  Saucony, SIS and American Bicycles (inc Quintana Roo) who offer us massive
                  savings on their products.  Contact the Kit Manager for more details. 

            MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL.  Are you up to date with your membership? 
                  Please check with the Membership Secretary, Tony Walber at Lossiemouth.  By
                  far the easiest way is to fill out a Standing Order Form and send it in.  The last
                  edition of Triangles should have the form you need.

   2 Apr 03 - The date of the Interservices (Olympic Distance) has changed to
       30 Jul 03.  The event will still be at Sherborne, Dorset.

   15 Mar 03 - The new Triangles is out on the streets - click here

   15 Mar 03 - The Entry Form for the RAF Triathlon Sprint Championships at
           RAF Cosford on 14 May 03 is now available here
           (regrets but you cannot enter online)

   13 Mar 03 - The Interservice Duathlon Champs are to be held at Hullavington on
           9 Apr 03.  Unfortunately this is very close to our own RAF Champs but we are only
           just receiving details - more soon.

   13 Mar 03 - A special edition Triangles is being circulated to see how many would
           be interested in going to the USA Armed Forces Interservice Triathlon
           Championships in California this June.  Keep an eye on the website too and we'll
           give you more details when they have been finalised.

   13 Mar 03 - A correction has been made to the RAF Duathlon Champs Entry Form. 
           Cheques should be made payable to SFAS RAF Lossiemouth (not NONPAS) 
           click here.

    2 Mar 03  - Enter the RAF Duathlon Championships 5 Apr 03 click here

     9 Feb 03 - The 2003 Race Schedule was sanctioned at the AGM click here

     4 Feb 03 - You can view the AGM Agenda and the Training Weekend
            Schedule for 8/9 Feb 03 Here

      14 Jan 03 - This year's Olympic Distance Interservices will be 23 Jul 03 at
             Sherborne, Dorset, and will be run by the Navy.

     13 Jan 03 - You can view Triangles here

     13 Jan 03 - The AGM and Training Weekend is confirmed for 8/9 Feb 03 at
             RAF Cosford.  See your SROs for details.  We need to know who is coming
             asap!  Contact Chris Sturgess on Ext 4557 at RAF Cosford or Pete Daulby. 
             They'll be a free curry on the Saturday night after the AGM.

     16 Dec 02 - Great News!  Our sponsors, NAAFI Financial have decided           
             to support us in 2003.  You can visit their website here.

     11 Dec 02 - If you want to suggest an event for our 2003 schedule, either National
             or Regional write to me at sec@raftri.org.uk and like any good committee member
             I'll completely ignore your input.  NO, NO, I WON'T PROMISE!  (Don't worry
             Windsor and the Half Ironman at Sherborne will definitely be on the list so you can
             apply for them now).

     11 Dec 02 - The RAFTA AGM will take place at Cosford 1600 hrs on
         8 Feb 03.  The 8/9 Feb 03 is also a training weekend at Cosford.   
             Maximum attendance is encouraged.  Drop all other plans and be there!

      11 Dec 02 - I've added some photos to the website click here

      11 Dec 02 - The 2003 RAF Sprint Champs will take place on 14 May 03

       6 Dec 02 - The move to www.raftri.org.uk!  Comments can be forwarded to  
              webmaster raftri.org.uk

  3 Dec 02 - You will have to register like lightening for the IRONMAN UK.  As of 3 Dec, the Race Office had received 1675 pre-register entries for 1250 slots.  If you pre-register you will receive news of the event going live 48 hrs ahead of the populous.

  15 Nov 02 - IRONMANUK have announced on their website that next years event will definitely be at Sherborne Castle in Dorset.  However, they have still not decided whether or not to make it a full IRONMAN or a half.  Their website is www.ironmanuk.com. 

  The next ECM will take place on 22 Nov 02 at Boscombe Down, Conference Room Bldg 799 at 10.00hrs.  Contact the Sec daulby onetel.net.uk for more details.

  The next RAFTA AGM will be in January along with the first training weekend.  Shake off that Turkey!  We'll let you  know the date and location soon.

   Unfortunately the Duathlon has had to be postponed.  It will probably be rescheduled for Mar/Apr.  Let us have your views daulby onetel.net.uk

  Website goes online 4 Nov 02!

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