Glasgow 2014: Triathlon site ‘making progress’

GLASGOW 2014 Commonwealth Games organisers have unveiled for the first time the preparations taking place at Strathclyde Loch for the Triathlon Competition.

Paul Jukes of N Lanarkshire Council, Shona Robison, Scottish Triathlete Grant Sheldon, and David Grevemberg. Picture: Stuart Nicol

The triathlon takes place on July 24 and July 26, with three medal events including the new Mixed Team Relay.

Work has been carried out to prevent algae growth during the Games and ensure the Loch meets water quality regulations for a world-class Triathlon event.

Other improvements include creating a designated swim area, and treating the separate water with a phosphorous-reducing chemical.

The water in the Loch is monitored on a weekly basis in a bid to ensure the venue is at its best for an invitational Triathlon later this month.

Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive David Grevemberg, said: “We have worked hard to ensure that Strathclyde Park will prove an outstanding venue for the Triathlon Competition at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

“We are grateful to all our Partners and stakeholders, including the Scottish Government and North Lanarkshire Council, during a combined effort from all parties to prepare the Loch to international standards.

“I am truly excited at the prospect of world-class athletes striving for Gold and glory during the Games, which was the driving force for all the work done.”

Cabinet Secretary for Commonwealth Games and Sport Shona Robison, added: “Strathclyde Loch Country Park is an internationally renowned water sports area and is a fantastic venue for the Triathlon competition and we look forward to welcoming the world’s best athletes to this world class venue in July.

“The improvement works to the Park undertaken by North Lanarkshire Council and the Games organisers is providing a Legacy for future use and enjoyment of this beautiful location.  It is hoped the Triathlon being staged here will inspire local people - and those from further afield - to engage with Glasgow 2014, encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors and actively participate with many of the recreational sports and activities on offer.” 

Paul Jukes, Executive Director of Regeneration and Environmental Services for North Lanarkshire, said: “Strathclyde Park is an ideal venue for the 2014 triathlon events, both for the athletes and spectators as well as the thousands of visitors expected on the two days of competition. As a Proud Host Venue we want to deliver a first class facility, and our work to upgrade the roads and paths and achieve the required water quality standards has done just that.”