ABOUT 2,000 competitors took part in the Castle Howard Triathlon over the weekend, including about 400 children racing on Saturday afternoon.

The event was staged in glorious weather within the beautiful 10,000 acres of castle grounds and surrounding area of stunning rural Yorkshire.

More than 160 competitors signed up for a new half iron distance race, called The Gauntlet, which was hosted at the triathlon and consisted of a 1.9km swim, 90km cycle and a 21km run - perfect for those who wanted to upgrade from the Olympic distance or simply take on a new challenge.

Former Royal Marines Commando Brian Adcock, race director of the Castle Triathlon Series and the brainchild behind The Gauntlet, said beforehand that he had been inundated with inquiries and interest since word about the Gauntlet race began to spread.

The Castle Howard Triathlon was part of the Castle Triathlon Series, festival events for all levels from seven-year- olds to 70-year-olds at five beautiful castles around Europe. The event partnered with local charity, York Against Cancer.