"It could be the best thing you do this year": Entries for Stockton Duathlon now open!

Whether you're an elite athlete or a complete beginner, Stockton Duathlon could be an ideal challenge to take on in 2020.

Entries are now open for competitors of all abilities to take part in the popular event, which takes place on Sunday April 26.

All courses follow a run-cycle-run format, on fully closed roads, along the picturesque banks of the River Tees.

Participants can choose from three distances:

• Go-Tri distance - 2k run, 10k cycle, 1k run
   
• Sprint distance - 5k run, 20k cycle, 2.5k run
   
• Standard distance - 10k run, 40k cycle, 5k run

There is also an option to compete in the Standard race in a relay format, involving one or two runners and a cyclist.

Go-Tri and Sprint distances are open to anyone aged over 15 and the Standard distance is open to anyone 17 years and over.

Races cost between £25 and £49 to enter. Spectators can enjoy the event for free.

Councillor Jim Beall, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Leisure and Culture, said: "Stockton Duathlon is a fantastic event to get involved in, regardless of your ability. The beginner course is particularly ideal for a very first try.

"Stockton Riverside is a beautiful part of our Borough and the multi-lap format of the races mean spectators can see the bikes up to four times per lap. It promises to be a great spectacle.

"Get yourself booked in now and don't miss out. It could be the best thing you do this year!"

The Sprint is a World Championships qualification race, whilst the Standard is a European Championships qualification race and will also play host to the Triathlon England National Championships. To be considered for qualification you must be a full British Triathlon member at least three days before the event.

Cash prizes are up for grabs for the first (£500), second (£300) and third (£200) placed males and females in the Standard distance race.

All participants will receive a t-shirt, medal and goodie bag, as well as free downloadable high-resolution photographs.

Stockton Duathlon is hosted by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council in partnership with TriHard and is supported by British Triathlon.