Leeds Triathlon: The colour, sweat and tears of joy as Leeds shows off its sporting best

Youths start the swim in Roundhay Park taking part in one of the many amatuer races in Triathlon Leeds prior to the main event over the weekend, the 2016 ITU World Triathlon Leeds. Picture Tony Johnson

A city no stranger to hosting major events, it seemed the natural home for a Columbia Threadneedle World Triathlon stage.

And, as the crowds packing Leeds city centre awaited the arrival of the elite women’s and men’s races, there was much to cheer as thousands of amateur triathletes took the course on.

Leeds Triathlon: Elite athletes from across the globe gear up as novices celebrate finishing gruelling amateur race

The support for these heroes - some from Leeds, and other parts of Yorkshire and beyond - was increcible to see - reminiscent of the Leeds Half Marathon and, dare we say it, the excitement felt when the city hosted the 2014 Tour de France Grand Depart.

One excited supporter told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “It’s not an event I’m very familiar with, but it’s exciting to see everyone cheering and urging them on.”

Families, colleagues and friends were out to support, and two of the Yorkshire Evening Post’s own took part.

A relieved Rob Parsons and Jonathan Brown took to twitter after their triathlon effort.

Jonathan said: “Brilliant day (minus panicking in the lake + falling off my bike) Raised £500 for @maggiesyorks”

The building excitement set the scene for the impending arrival of home favourites Alistair and Jonny, due to set off in the Men’s elite race, which begins at Roundhay Park at 3.45pm.