Ipswich Triathlon Club has a proud and lively history dating back nearly four decades.
The original club was founded in 1986, when triathlon was still a new sport in the UK. Membership was small but enthusiastic with the most popular session being the weekly swims at Stowmarket Pool followed by a well-deserved drink in the bar. As interest in the sport grew elsewhere, the club unfortunately lost momentum and was eventually dissolved, spending its remaining funds on a farewell meal at Needham Mill. For a while, Ipswich athletes joined other clubs (including the A11 Triathletes), but it wasn’t long before a new Ipswich Triathlon Club was born.
Much of the credit for the revival in 1988 goes to John Gabriel, who having previously founded Felixstowe Tri Squad, later expanded the club to cover Ipswich. He was the organiser of many popular triathlons, including Culford, HMS Ganges, RHS Holbrook, Junior Triathlons at Woodbridge School, and the Alton Duathlon.
Training in those early years was informal, with regular runs, cycle sessions (including time trials), and small, friendly training triathlons just for members. These events became known as the “Sizzler Series,” due to the celebratory BBQs afterwards.
Over time, Ipswich Triathlon Club grew steadily. more training opportunities were added, and membership climbed towards 100. Summer run coaching sessions in Christchurch Park, led by Ian Duggan, became a highlight.
Simon Palmer, Dave Copland, and Matt Dye stepped up as race directors and the club developed a strong race calendar running Culford Triathlon, the Alton Duathlon, and the Framlingham Junior Triathlon for many years. A well-attended junior section thrived under Isabel Smith’s guidance, and the Sizzler Series continued to offer fun,
Ipswich Triathlon Club has had some outstanding athletes, including Ironman age group winners, commonwealth competitors and medallists, and a member who went on to secure a place in the GB Olympic squad.
Today the club has continued to thrive, welcoming everyone from beginners to seasoned Ironman athletes. The club offers weekly coached swim sessions, group rides, run training, and a supportive atmosphere, with a lively community both online and in person. The club’s history of hosting events continues including the popular Culford Sprint Triathlon and time trials, keeping the spirit of competition and camaraderie alive.