having now done a couple of smaller events looking to do a half distance in June or July next year with possibility of Big Woody in September (subject to fitness). anyone recommend either of the above events

i did trentham last year great race well organised.

but the swim is AWFUL. In one part of the course the water was about 18" deep with a foot of mud. NOT THE BEST FOR SWIMMING IN.

on each lap i ended up walking for about 100m each time and cut my feet up.

but like i said the rest of the race is brilliant.

hope that's of some help.

I too cut my foot badly (2004) at Trentham, with visit to the local hospital and a week off work as a result. The water is awful, cannot advise on Uk 70.3, as I've never done it.
There are a couple of Welsh middle distances in June, which I and many on here can comment on, The Pembroke half and Bala Middle these are both excellent races, and offer good value for money when compared against 70.3. Bala has to be one of the most picturesque venues in Britain, the water quality is far superior to Trentham, and the roads are quieter and defo smoother, with the run being secenic to say the least, by far a better race. Hope that helps

thanks bala is nearer to me so i may well opt for that

Bala is a smashin race and theres loadsa pirates . Trentham the swim was 4 lapped this yr I also cut my feet in 2005 and was much better . Bala probably best choice for first half as it is also tad shorter than Trentham though the run is hilly.

Its worth noting that Trentham is a race run by pro race organisers , Bala is an exceptional example of a club race and UKIM and 70.3 are run by a business who main business is neither of the above.