Gayle Lindsay On Triangle Half Challenge
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Gayle Lindsay is set to defend her crown in the Chubb Bermuda Triangle Half Challenge, which gets underway with the Butterfield Mile on Friday [January 17].
Lindsay claimed the women’s title last year, with a combined time of 2hr 12min 39sec after winning the BF&M 10K and PwC Half-Marathon and finishing second in the Front Street Mile.
Despite the success of last year’s campaign, Lindsay’s focus this time is not on defending her title but on personal improvement.
“The breadth of local talent, combined with the participation of athletes from overseas, makes it very difficult to know where I’ll place on the leaderboard,” Lindsay told Bernews.
“My main focus is on achieving my best times rather than my overall position.”
Reflecting on her triumph last year, she added: “Winning the title last year was a tremendous honour, and regardless of the outcome this weekend, I’m incredibly proud to be part of the race’s winning history.”
Although Lindsay, 36, gravitates towards longer-distance events, she revealed that the Front Street Mile holds a unique allure for her.
“As I get older, I find the shorter distance more challenging and feel better suited to longer races, but there’s something about stepping onto Front Street on Friday night that always excites me,” she said.
“The atmosphere and crowds are always amazing, and it’s one of the main reasons the weekend is so special.
“There’s a real sense of excitement and energy among the runners, both before and after each race.”
The Triangle Challenge is known for its rigorous demands, testing participants across three races over consecutive days.
Lindsay acknowledged the physical and mental toll the event takes on competitors.
“Anyone who has completed the Triangle Challenge knows just how demanding it is,” she said.
“People often underestimate how much the mile can drain your legs, and with such a short recovery before the 10k the next morning, it’s a tough turnaround.
“The final day is the ultimate test of endurance, running the longest distance on tired legs. But that makes it so rewarding—the bigger the challenge, the greater the sense of achievement!”
This year’s event carries special meaning for Lindsay, as her sister, Katrina, will fly in to compete in the half challenge.
“I’m especially excited for her to experience it first-hand,” Lindsay said.
As race day approaches Lindsay said she is satisfied with her preparation while acknowledging the familiar pre-race jitters.
“It’s normal to feel like there’s more you could do leading up to a race, but overall, I’m happy with my preparations,” the Scot said.
“I still look forward to lacing up my trainers just as much now as I did ten years ago.”
Lindsay also took the opportunity to express her gratitude to those behind the scenes who help the event run smoothly.
“I sincerely thank the race organisers and volunteers for making it all possible,” she added.
“To everyone competing in the races, I wish them the best of luck!”
