St Neots: Mayor v deputy Olympic Triathlon raises £2,000

The battle between now former mayor, Cllr Ben Pitt, and the deputy mayor, Cllr Richard Slade, was rescheduled to take place on May 7 to allow Cllr Pitt to recover from a broken collarbone sustained back in October.

Undeterred by the setback, both went head-to-head during a 1500-metre open-water swim near Paxton Pits, a 40km cycle, and a 10km run through St Neots, all for a great cause.

The sun was shining as Cllr Slade and Cllr Pitt started their Olympic Triathlon with a 1,500m ope-water swim. (Image: Ben Pitt)

Cllr Ben Pittt said: "I'm delighted to say that we made our £2,000 target, raising funds for three brilliant charities that do amazing work in St Neots: Disability Huntingdonshire, Money Advice St Neots and Young People's Counselling Service.

"Along with all the other events that have supported the Mayor's Charities this year, we have raised £14,883."

After months of rigorous training, Cllr Pitt and Cllr Slade completed the gruelling challenge together, and with the result too close to call, both settled for a draw.

Cllr Slade and Cllr Pitt were all smiles at the end of the gruelling challenge. (Image: Ben Pitt)

Cllr Pitt said he wanted to do the challenge to really push himself, and despite saying his legs went jelly-like on the run, both managed to drag themselves around St Neots and even threw in a few victory laps around the Market Square.

READ MORE: Mayor and deputy triathlon challenge to be rearranged

Cllr Ben Pitt said: "It was a fitting end to an amazing year for me as mayor of St Neots.

"It's been a real honour to represent and serve our town. I've learned so much and met hundreds, if not thousands, of amazing people.

"I wish the very best of luck to Cllr Rob Simonis, who took over as mayor on May 9, with Cllr Richard Slade continuing in the role of Deputy Mayor.

"I know they'll both do a fantastic job.

If you still wish to make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ben-pitt.