THE 2004 British Triathlon South West Tri Star series finished on a high note for Tri Team Glos Young Triathletes, who scooped top places in all age groups - with one first, five second and three third positions.

To be eligible for the series triathletes have to complete at least four events of which two must be triathlons (swim, bike, run) and two duathlons (run, bike, run) or aquathlons (swim, run).

In the boys' Tri Stars One group (nine to ten) novice triathlete Jack Hume from Quedgeley took part in just two events but finished a promising tenth with 16,549 points. In the same age group for the girls Alice Mayo from Harescombe despite missing two events finished with a healthy score of 33,052 points.

Bertie Vidgen's (Amberley) second place in the Tri Stars Three (13 to 14) earned him a place in the BTA regional triathlon championships. This fine performance helped the South West regional team home to a fourth place out of 12 teams, the highest the region has ever scored.

In the 2004 series Vidgen was just 234 points behind the winner with 38,878. Vidgen was one of the youngest in his age group, so whilst some of the stronger athletes will be moving up an age group next year Vidgen will be in a good position to consolidate this year's achievements and aim for the top spot in 2005.

In the same age group Rachel Gardner of Bisley managed a solid fifth spot with 28,276. Tri Team Glos Young Triathletes are now looking forward to some serious training over the winter months to emerge even stronger for next year's triathlon season.

There are still a few places left on the team, should anyone be interested in joining. You need to be between eight and 14 years of age, be able to swim 50 metres, be committed and enthusiastic, with a view to taking part in races in 2005.

Contact Inger Baud for further information and to arrange a taster session, on 01452 520849 or email ingerbaud@hotmail.com