Event Overview
Outlaw X is the prestigious season-closer of the Outlaw Triathlon Series, typically held in late September at the stunning Thoresby Park in North Nottinghamshire. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Outlaw Half, this 'X' version (70.3 distance) has quickly become a cult favorite in the UK triathlon scene. The event is centered around the Grade I listed Thoresby Hall, providing a backdrop of aristocratic elegance to a day of grit and endurance. The atmosphere is quintessential 'Outlaw'—friendly, meticulously organized, and highly competitive at the front end, making it a perfect end-of-summer goal for UK triathletes.
Course Details & Terrain
The Swim (1.2 Miles): The race begins with a single-lap swim in the Thoresby Park lake. In late September, the water is crisp, usually hovering around 14-16°C. The lake is relatively sheltered, meaning choppy water is rarely an issue, though sightings can be tricky if the morning mist hasn't cleared.
The Bike (56 Miles): The bike course is a single loop through the rolling countryside of North Nottinghamshire. While it isn't 'mountainous,' it is deceptively taxing. The terrain is characterized by constant undulations—'power climbs'—that require frequent gear changes. The road surfaces are generally good, but the technical nature of the country lanes means you must stay focused on your line and cornering.
The Run (13.1 Miles): The run is a multi-lap course entirely within the grounds of Thoresby Park. It features a mix of tarmac and hard-packed gravel paths. It is not a pancake-flat run; there are several steady climbs through the wooded areas that will test your legs after the rolling bike leg. The benefit is the high density of spectators at the central hub, whom you will pass multiple times.
Who Should Enter? (Beginners vs. Experienced)
For Beginners: If you are stepping up to the middle distance for the first time, Outlaw X is an excellent choice. The closed-road feel of the park and the supportive crew take much of the stress out of the day. The cut-off times are fair, and the community vibe helps ease the 'half-iron' nerves.
For Experienced Athletes: For the seasoned triathlete, this is a 'strength' course. There are no massive mountains, but the constant rolling terrain on the bike rewards those with high sustained power. It’s a great race to test your end-of-season fitness and see how much your summer training has paid off before the winter off-season begins.
Coach Raye's Race-Day Pro Tips
- Layer Up for Transition: September mornings in Nottinghamshire can be near freezing before the sun comes up. Don't just think about the race; think about the 90 minutes before the start. Wear a disposable warm layer and consider neoprene socks if you're prone to cold feet in the water.
- Attack the 'Rollers' Wisely: On the bike, the temptation is to hammer every small incline. Instead, aim for a steady power output. Pushing 120% of your target power on every hill will leave your quads empty for the run. Use your momentum from the descents to carry you halfway up the next rise.
- Shoe Choice Matters: Because the run includes gravel paths and potentially damp grass sections, avoid super-thin racing flats. A shoe with a bit of 'structure' and decent grip will serve you better on the mixed terrain of Thoresby Park, especially if it has rained in the days leading up to the event.
How to Train for This Event
Outlaw X requires a blend of cold-water tolerance and 'punchy' bike power. At Raye.app, I specialize in preparing athletes for the unique demands of UK racing. My adaptive WhatsApp plans include specific 'strength-endurance' bike sessions that mimic the rolling hills of Nottinghamshire and transition runs designed to prepare your legs for the mixed-surface parkland. Ready to end your season with a new 70.3 PB? Let's build the plan that gets you there.