THE deadline for registering for the 10th edition of Montgomery Canal Triathlon is fast approaching, according to organisers.

The popular event, organised by the Friends of the Montgomery Canal and is supported by the Canal and River Trust in aid of its restoration fund, starts in Newtown in Wales and ending in Shropshire on May 7.

Booking for the triathlon closes on Saturday, April 9 and Christine Palin, chairman of the Friends of the Montgomery Canal, said they were looking forward to this year's event, which will again be a 'marathon' length of 27 miles.

“We hope that this year it will not be affected by any restrictions," she said.

"Conditions last year meant we had to move the event to the autumn.

"There has been so much interest already, even before bookings have opened, that we hope we won’t have to limit the numbers taking part.

“Last year’s alternative format was enjoyed by many who took part so we shall repeat that, starting again from the new Open Newtown base – we hope that exciting project will be finished by May.

"The new arrangements mean canoeing through the centre of Welshpool which draws attention to what the canal will bring the town when it is connected to the rest of the waterway system.

“The event also shows what has been achieved in reopening the canal so far.

"After closure many road bridges were removed, blocking the canal: the cycling section includes five of these crossings; by contrast, canoeists will see the bridges north and south of Welshpool which are again open for navigation.

"The final section on foot, over the section to the Welsh border and through Llanymynech includes the four road blockages which can be reopened with recently-announced government grants as well as Schoolhouse Bridge to be rebuilt this year as one of the most exciting projects of the restoration.

“The Montgomery Canal Triathlon has always been very successful in raising funds for restoration.

“The Triathlon is popular with families as well as the more athletic with entrants aged from eight to 80 coming from across the country – and occasionally beyond.

"We are sure this year’s will be as enjoyable.”

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After restrictions forced 2021's event to be 27 miles, organisers are again following the format with a 12-mile cycling section from Newtown to Belan, 5.5 miles by canoe through Welshpool to Pool Quay and 9.5 miles on foot to the finish at Crickheath.

To book, head to www.themontgomerycanal.org.uk/friends/montgomery-canal-triathlon/