MORE than 200 athletes representing 46 of the region’s schools took part in the South West Schools Biathle Championships at Leweston School, Sherborne.

Dorset Pentathletes and schools from the local area enjoyed great success, winning seven individual gold, six silver and seven bronze medals.

The host school also claimed four gold, one silver and two bronze medals in the team events.

The event consisted of a run/swim/run competition with distances comprising of 400m to 500m for the run and 40m to 100m for the swim – distances covered varied with each school year.

This was the second time that a south west schools biathle race had taken place, with Leweston School hosting the event in conjunction with Dorset Pentathletes.

On a sunny day, the event saw one of the biggest biathle entries in the country.

And the standard of competition was very high with all the athletes giving 100 per cent in their bid for glory – some age groups had heats and finals.

Team coach Michael Flaherty said: “This was another excellent event for the Dorset Pentathletes biathle team and local schools, with 22 athletes taking part in their first competition and all the team doing well.

“Once again, the team gave each other great support throughout the event.

“Leweston School carried on their success from the Dorset Schools Relays to once again be the top-placed school team.

“The team is looking in good shape for the next schools event which is the National Schools Biathle at Leweston School on June 22.

For information on training, or to get involved in biathle, contact Mick Flaherty at flaherty121@aol.com or go to Dorset Pentathletes’ website at dorsetpentathletes.co.uk