Racing two Duathlons on consecutive days would not be on most athletes’ agenda, considering that by its very nature – combining the two disciplines of running and cycling – the duathlon is already taxing enough.

Yet, this is exactly what Dermot Galea, who is currently following an M.Sc in Exercise Physiology at Loughborough University, did last weekend.

On Saturday, Galea took part in the Ashbourne Duathlon (Run: 12km; Bike: 40km; Run: 4km), finishing seventh overall from a field of 138 competitors, in a time of 2hrs:15m:46s.

The following day he took part in the 1485 No Frills Duathlon in Bosworth. The distances were Run: 5km; Bike: 20km; Run: 5km. This time he managed a creditable third place Overall, among 84 competitors, just 22 seconds behind the winner.

On a similar note, Johanna Calleja, also following an MSc Course in Exercise and Nutrition at Chester University, has taken time off her studies in order to participate in the Winter League organised by the City of Chester Triathlon Club.

She is currently heading the series after she took part in three swimming races (placing fourth, third and fourth), one cycle race (placing third), two road-running races (winning one race and finishing eighth in the other) and one duathlon where she finished a very close second. Forty-five participants have so far taken part in this Winter League.

Both athletes are seeking to enhance their competitive edge through some triathlon racing in the coming months.