Every September since 2002 we've run the Awesome Foursome Quadrathlon, an extreme multi-sport race for individuals, pairs and relay teams to enter. This is an established event in the British and European Quadrathlon calendar regularly being a World Cup ranking event or the European Short Course Championships.
The race makes the very most of Bude's geography and features. The open water swim takes place within the shelter of Bude's breakwater. The cycle ride includes some amazing coastal hills (including the 1 in 3 climb at Millook). The kayak leg takes place on the tranquil Bude canal. And the final run follows the canal towpath onto the coastal path and back to Bude. The fastest athletes will take around 3 hours to complete the course with most finished within 4 hours.
Entries must be received in advance. You can do this by downloading an application form and following the instructions or by using our On-Line entry system below.
Route Description on YouTube
The Race starts and finishes at the Lower Wharf, Bude Canal. To get to us drive down into Bude from the A39. At the mini-roundabout next to the river turn left towards Widemouth Bay, crossing the river and then take the immediate left turn into the Crescent Car Park. Park here - ticket required. Check in on the other side of the road next to the canal. Toilets close by.
The event starts with an 800 m sea swim, a double loop within Summerleaze bay, protected by the breakwater. Next a 30 km cycle following the coast road to Widemouth, Wanson Mouth and Millook before meeting the A39 at Wainhouse Corner and returning to Bude. Then a 10 km Kayak paddle, which is a double loop of the Bude canal. And finally a 10 km run along the canal towpath to Helebridge, following the marked footpath across the fields to Widemouth and returning to Bude via the coastal path. The course has stayed the same since we first ran it in 2002.
This is an extreme event where each discipline should only be attempted by competent athletes. The event can be completed by individuals, as a pair each completing any 2 disciplines or as a relay team where each team member completes a single discipline.
Swimmers can wear wetsuits and should be competent in open water conditions. Cyclists must wear approved helmets and abide by the rules of the road, beyond Widemouth the route becomes extremely hilly, low gears are essential. Paddlers will be allowed to use any type of Kayak or Ski, Under 18’s will have to wear a buoyancy jacket. The route will be marked and marshalled, however route finding is the competitors responsibility, bring a map and familiarise yourself with the route and the area.
We have a range of Kayaks that we are happy to hire out for a small fee. Contact Simon directly if you are interested and to check availability. Tel 01288 354039 or email info@shorelineactivities.co.uk
