ORGANISERS of York's first triathlon say the event was a huge success - and they can't wait to return next year for another such event.

The triathlon, held on Sunday at York Sport Village in the grounds of the University of York, involved more than 300 competitors.

A spokeswoman for organisers UK Triathlon said participants ranged from pro triathletes and enthusiastic fitness fanatics to first time entrants and charity fundraisers.

"The event was a huge success but we got it right limiting entries for the first year to enable any necessary changes to be made for a larger competitor field next year," she said.

"We are overwhelmed by the amount of positive feedback we have already received. The spectator friendly venue is perfect for crowds to cheer on competitors and create a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

"With the superb modern facilities on offer at York Sport Village, we can’t wait to return next year and look forward to opening entries for the 2015 City of York Triathlon very soon."

She said Sunday's swim took place first in the village's 'outstanding' 25 metre pool and started with sprint male competitors entering the pool at 30 second intervals to complete their 400m swim - 16 lengths - before heading off to collect their bike and take part in the next discipline.

"Competitors put on their cycling gear and made for the bike mount line where, depending on their chosen distance, they embarked on either six laps (18k) or three laps (9k) of the bike course," she said.

The event finished with a four lap run of 5kilometre or a two lap run of 2.5k around the course. First place went to Jack Willis, who crossed the finish line in 52 minutes 42 seconds, while sprint female first place went to Emily Legg, who achieved a time of 01h 03m 21s and the overall winning relay team was Team Econ, finishing in 01h 01m 04s.