How many people does it take to get one 57-year-old to wobble around the Rossendale Triathlon course?

Answer: Three trainers, and numerous helpers.

On Sunday I managed to wobble my way around the Rossendale Triathlon course. I admit it was not the fastest time and I came 189th out of 199 starters – but I was the 10th oldest entrant.

I’m very proud of my efforts, as just six months ago I couldn’t even manage one length of the pool.

And so I will take this opportunity to say some thank yous: Firstly, Steve Fox from Peel Street garage, who has been teaching me to swim every Friday since January.

He has the patience of a saint and is a fabulous teacher.

Secondly to Paul, the coach at Rossendale Triathlon Club (a real disciplinarian), and the club’s members who have been so great with me.

Finally, on the coaching front, Dave Bell from the wonderful Performance centre and his business partner Sam who have worked their magic on me and got me into condition.

Thanks also go to my brother-in-law John, who lent me a half-decent bike – riding on the roads has got a lot scarier since I was a kid.

Mrs B has been a real tour de force; supporting me throughout, and running the last three miles with me on Sunday to keep me going.

I also have to take my hat off to Rossendale Leisure Trust which organised a superb event.

Commiserations go to the French bloke who got disqualified for riding through the lights at the Rams Head, after ignoring three marshals waving great big red flags... Tee, hee hee!

I really have got the bug now and intend to do a few more triathlons before building up to an ‘Ironman’ for my 60th birthday.

I know that that sounds a little ambitious as it is a 2.5-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride finished off with a marathon.

Maybe I’m still on an adrenaline high but you never know, I have got three years to get ready.