The popular Ilkley Triathlon, a club run sprint distance event now in its 26th year, is welcoming a new sponsor, All Terrain Cycles, as it prepares for the launch of the 2018 event tomorrow.

The Yorkshire cycling retailer, which has superstores in Saltaire and Wetherby, will provide mechanical assistance at the triathlon on September 23, which is organised by the Leeds and Bradford Triathlon Club.

It will also donate vouchers as prizes for the winning competitors and for the event’s charity raffle.

Entries will go live at 6am tomorrow and will be open to 360 individual entrants and 30 teams. Starting from Ilkley Pool and Lido, it includes a 500m indoor swim, a 14.5km cycle and a 4.8m run.

Tony Booth, managing director of All Terrain Cycles, said: “With previous competitors including the Brownlee Brothers, the Ilkley Tri is one of the most popular in the racing calendar - not only is it a great challenge, it is set in stunning Yorkshire countryside.

"We are really proud to be supporting the event which does a great job of encouraging more people to get involved in this fantastic sport.”

Louise Hanley of Baildon, who is Ilkley Tri event organiser and is also a member of the All Terrain race team, started competing in triathlons 15 years ago.

She commented: “It’s always good to join forces with local businesses and as many of our members and entrants are customers of All Terrain, it’s a great fit.

“Having been a member of the All Terrain race team off and on for about 12 years, I know that the guys in the stores have the kit and the expert knowledge to really help enthusiasts, whatever their level.

"Whether you need a time trial bike, tri bars or a specialist tri bike fitting, All Terrain can help.

“Although, as an organiser, I’ll be too busy on the day to take part myself, I’m hoping that some of the other All Terrain team will fly the flag for us – although most of them seem to be happier on a bike than in the water!”

If you’d like to take part in the Ilkley Tri, visit: http://lbt.org.uk/IlkleyTriathlon.aspx at 6am tomorrow to book your place.