THOSE that like fitness and adventure are getting ready to ‘storm the castle’ in Ludlow.

The three former Ludlow school friends behind the multi-sport concept have heralded its return with an even tougher challenge:

Race directors Dermott Hayes, Matt Green, and Matthew Morris hope to top the success of the first race - which saw 195 people take on a 10km run, 33km bike and 5km run - and turn it into a major fixture in the UK duathlon calendar.

Entry opened for adult competitors last September, with more than 300 having signed up so far - a maximum of 350 athletes can take part.

“We know how tough Storm The Castle is and that finishing is a huge achievement, but we decided to offer a little something extra,“ said Dermott, 40, who runs triathlon and multi-sport coaching company RG Active.

“A regal hierarchy status will define first time finishers as a peasant. Returning athletes will take the next step on the ladder and earn a new title each year that they complete the race – after completing five they will be a king or queen. We hope the bragging rights will give a competitive friendly edge to the event.”

The race route takes in some of Ludlow’s spectacular scenery and finishes in the grounds of Ludlow Castle itself, following a tough climb around the castle walls and Whitcliffe.

There is a bike route that runs through the beautiful and notoriously hilly countryside of south Shropshire before heading back to the town via the spectacular descent of High Vinnals and Whitcliffe.

The organisers hope to attract athletes of the highest abilities from across the globe with the more challenging aspects of the course, such as the ‘Lactic Ladder’ and ‘The Wall’

A junior event is also planned for children aged five to 16.

This local multisport event on Sunday, April 17 is up for a prestigious award and ‘Storm the Castle’ would love the local community to get behind them by casting their vote: http://www.220triathlon.com/competitions/220-triathlon-awards-2016---first-round-of-voting-now-open/380.html.