A record number of young athletes took part in this year’s Bedford Junior Aquathlon, with 173 children swimming and running their way through the 2025 event at Robinson Pools & Fitness and Bedford Park.
Now in its 19th year, the Aquathlon, held on Sunday, 30 March, welcomed school-aged participants from Years 3 to 11, making it the biggest turnout in the event’s history.
Organised by Bedford Borough Council’s Sports Development Team, the event featured a mix of swim and run distances tailored by age.
For younger participants, the course included a 66-metre swim and 600-metre run, while older age groups tackled a 400-metre swim and 2.8-kilometre run.
Cllr Sarah Gallagher, (Conservative, Shortstown) portfolio holder for customer experience, leisure and culture, praised the event’s impact, “It’s a fantastic record-breaking success for this year’s Bedford Junior Aquathlon.
“It’s great to see so many young people from our community embracing active lifestyles and challenging themselves in such a fun and inclusive event.”
Trophies were awarded to the top three finishers in each category, but every athlete received a medal to mark their achievement.
One parent said: “All the staff were very friendly and the whole atmosphere was buzzing, but at the same time friendly and relaxed. Such a super event and we’re very lucky to have it run in our lovely town.”
Sports Development Officer Amy Stevens, who coordinated the event, added, “Witnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of our young athletes was truly inspiring.
“The success of this event is a testament to the hard work of our team, volunteers, and the families who took part.”
The Council has confirmed the next Junior Aquathlon will take place on Sunday, 12 October 2025, with bookings opening in September.
Full results from the March event are available at: www.bedford.gov.uk/aquathlon.
