Race Report | 2025 Scottish National Middle Distance Triathlon Championships

The Aberfeldy Middle Distance Triathlon, hosting the Scottish National Middle Distance Triathlon Championships, returned this year, drawing a field of approximately 350 athletes eager to test themselves against one of Scotland’s most scenic and demanding multisport routes. With nearly perfect weather gracing the day – a cool dawn giving way to a gorgeous summer day – the event was set for success.

Athletes began with a 1,900 m swim in the crystal-clear, cool waters of Loch Tay. The swim started at Loch Tay Marina, where the water measured a refreshing 17.4°C, making wetsuits optional. With the loch lying still and calm, conditions were ideal for strong, confident swimming.

Next, the 90 km bike leg took competitors along quiet, winding roads across the shoulder of Schiehallion and around Loch Rannoch – both thrilling in its challenge and breathtaking in its beauty. Athletes were rewarded with spectacular views, none more memorable than from the top of Schiehallion, where the sweeping Highland landscape unfolded. Throughout the day, the weather remained near perfect – sunny, dry, and with only the faintest breeze.

The final 21 km run was an undulating out-and-back route along the River Tay. Air temperatures rose from a cool 12°C at the start of the day to a balmy 27°C by the time most athletes took to the run, challenging endurance but delighting the spectators who lined the course to lend their support.

The winners on the day had to race hard take the spots on the podium. With such a packed field the leaders changed along the course.

In the open race, it was Jack Smith who set the early pace, emerging from the swim ahead of Ross Gale and Euan Marshall. A slick transition from all three and those chasing behind kept the contest tight. Peter Fenwick gradually made his way up the field throughout the bike section. Behind him, James Irvine and Angus Lindsay were also making their way up, all delivering a powerful rides to overhaul both Lindsay and Irvine and establish himself at the front of the field.

Carrying that momentum into the run, Fenwick sealed his victory in commanding style, clocking the fastest run split of the day in the open category (1:15:23) to secure the top step of the podium. Behind him, the battle for second and third remained fierce. Lindsay and Irvine entered T2 almost together, just three seconds apart, but it was Irvine’s rapid transition and marginally stronger run that earned him silver, with Lindsay taking a hard-fought and well-deserved third place.

The women’s race unfolded with similar drama. Grace Campbell showcased her swimming strength by leading out of the water, with Lyndsey Henderson and Jen Stewart following in close pursuit. It was on the bike, however, where the dynamic shifted. Heather Elder produced the standout ride of the women’s field, recording the fastest split (2:39:45) to erase early advantages from those out front and build a commanding four-minute lead heading into T2. Victoria Reid also made her way up through the field throughout the bike leg.

Elder’s advantage proved unassailable come the run section, and she held strong to claim victory. Behind her, Stewart dug deep to fend off Reid, the pair finishing less than a minute apart, with Stewart taking second and Reid rounding out a richly deserved podium.

The event organisation and commitment to sustainability was first rate. Local producers were showcased, offering food and drink options, while measures to reduce environmental impact included a significant reduction in single-use plastics and the introduction of high-quality, reusable transition dry bags supplied in partnership with Lomo Watersports. A shuttle bus service between Kenmore and the start proved invaluable for solo athletes, and thoughtful touches such as a car key drop and the provision of period products for athletes highlighted the organisers’ care and progressive approach – setting a positive example for races beyond Aberfeldy.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the event organiser, Still Going Strong, whose hard work and attention to detail ensured a smooth and memorable race. Gratitude is also due to the technical officials who upheld the highest standards of safety and fairness, and to the many volunteers whose dedication and enthusiasm created such a welcoming atmosphere. The encouragement of spectators added to the spirit of the day, and of course, the biggest thanks are reserved for the participants themselves, whose commitment and determination brought the Aberfeldy Middle Distance Triathlon to life.

Full results can be found here.