Hundreds take part in gruelling Ely Monster Races that saw competitors swim, cycle and run

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

The racers were set off by Mike Rouse, Mayor of Ely, on Sunday, August 19 at 7am with a second race launched at 7.30am.

On social media, Mr Rouse said: “What a way to send a Sunday morning, glad I only had to press the klaxon.”

Competitors spotted a problem during the race. One of the guide buoys had drifted, making them swim further than planned. However no one seemed to mind.

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

One competitor said: “Thank you for a fantastic event! OK, so we swam a bit further than planned but these things happen.”

Another added: Great race anyway - really good atmosphere and the river is nice to swim in - which is just as well given we were in there ages. Would recommend ya.”

Nathan Ford, 34, of the Nathan Ford Triathlon Coaching club claimed first place in the Monster Middle race with a total time of 4 hours 25 minutes and 27 seconds.

Hundreds of athletes took part in the Ely Monster Races held on Sunday, August 19. Picture: Mike Rouse (Image: Mike Rouse)

Ben Redman, 42, of the Cambridge Triathlon Club was first in the Monster Standard race with a total time of 2 hours 17 minutes and 21 seconds.

Hundreds of athletes took part in the Ely Monster Races held on Sunday, August 19. Picture: Mike Rouse (Image: Mike Rouse)

Hundreds of athletes took part in the Ely Monster Races held on Sunday, August 19. Picture: Mike Rouse (Image: Mike Rouse)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Hundreds of athletes took part in the Ely Monster Races held on Sunday, August 19. Picture: Mike Rouse (Image: Mike Rouse)

Hundreds of athletes took part in the Ely Monster Races held on Sunday, August 19. Picture: Mike Rouse (Image: Mike Rouse)

Hundreds of athletes took part in the Ely Monster Races held on Sunday, August 19. Picture: Mike Rouse (Image: Mike Rouse)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)

Ely Monster Racing. PHOTO: Michael Bennett/Shoot To Thrill. (Image: Archant)