Around 1,000 athletes, aged from 16 to 78, are in Pembrokeshire today, Sunday June 9,  to take part in the Challenge Wales triathlon.

The popular middle distance event features a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile cycle, and 13.1-mile run.

Entries for this year's event have doubled since last year, increasing to a record 1,000 for 2024, up 650 from last year.

And they're off! The 1.2 mile swim was the first discipline in the event.And they're off! The 1.2 mile swim was the first discipline in the event. (Image: Western Telegraph)

There are road closures throughout the area while the event takes place

The day began at 10am with swimmers entering the water from the Parrog slipway.

The pro men and women led the field, followed by the amateurs, and they completed two laps of the course before heading through the transition area to pick up their bikes.

Running up the slipway under the Activity Wales Events arch.Running up the slipway under the Activity Wales Events arch. (Image: Western Telegraph)

The 56-mile closed road cycle course takes in two laps between Fishguard and St Davids.

Swimmers sprint in for their second sea lap.Swimmers sprint in for their second sea lap. (Image: Western Telegraph)

Once off the bikes, the athletes embark on their 13.1 mile scenic run over three laps, and there is sure to be lots of spectator support as the runners make its way through Fishguard town centre.

The swim completed and the athletes make their way to pick up their bikes.The swim completed and the athletes make their way to pick up their bikes. (Image: Western Telegraph)

Crowds who have turned out in force to support the event are appreciating the bars and activities provided by local establishments along the route.

Challenge Wales is organised by Pembrokeshire-based Activity Wales Events.

Everyone was eager to get in the water!Everyone was eager to get in the water! (Image: Western Telegraph)

And at the the finish line on Goodwick Parrog,  an expo, food trucks, live music, massages, and a bar will keep the atmosphere pumping from the first athlete to the last