The Beastie
Bike: 3 larger laps
Run: 2 laps
Loch. Woods. Hills. Castle.
Know what’s coming.
Open water, proper off-road riding and park trails. Prepare for the terrain as well as the distance, then enjoy that finish in front of Balloch Castle.
Maps and laps
Find your way.
Choose your event’s route map and note its lap counts. For race distances, see the event comparison.
The Wee Beastie
Bike: 2 shorter laps
Run: 1 lap
The Bikeless Beastie Aquathlon
Bike: No cycling
Run: 2 laps
Follow the final athlete instructions, course markings and marshals if any arrangements change.
01 / Swim
Respect the loch.
Practise your race distance in supervised open water, including sighting, choppy conditions and swimming near others. Pool fitness helps, but time in the loch builds confidence.
Bring a wetsuit you’ve practised in. Wear your supplied race cap and enter the water only when directed by the swim team.
Wetsuit rules and water temperatures →02 / Mountain bike
A feel for the trails.
The Wee Beastie takes a shorter, less technical route, making it a welcoming introduction to off-road racing. Expect some uneven and muddy sections: practise braking, cornering, climbing and descending before race day.
Bring the right bike
Mountain bikes only: a serviceable hardtail or full-suspension bike. Road, gravel, hybrid and cyclocross bikes, traditional drop bars and clip-on aero bars are not permitted under our event policy.
Current British Triathlon cross-triathlon rules require 26–29-inch tyres, at least 1.5 inches wide, and plugged handlebar ends. Wear a correctly fitted, compliant helmet.
Check brakes, tyres and gears, and bring tools and spares for your own repairs. Unsure about your bike? Ask us before entering.
Read the equipment rules ↗Watch the bike courses
Get a rider’s-eye view before you train or race.
03 / Trail run
Save something for the castle.
Expect park trails, uneven surfaces and hills. Choose shoes with grip that suits the ground and weather, and practise running off the bike if you’re entering either triathlon.
The park stays open to the public. Pass other people considerately, follow marshal instructions and keep your awareness on the course. All three races finish in front of Balloch Castle.
Plan your transition and race-day kit →