A PEEBLES triathlete has conquered Ben Nevis to defend his title at a gruelling event.

Iain Veitch, 42, crossed the line around 20 minutes before his nearest competitor at ROC Scotland on Saturday (October 5).

The race involved a run up the UK’s tallest mountain, a swim in Loch Leven and a bike journey along the West Highland Way to Fort William.

Veitch was defending his 2023 title, an event which saw him suffer from hyperthermia and spend several hours in an ambulance after crossing the line.

“Pre-race nerves about the weather and water temperature were almost as high as about the competition and racing,” said Veitch.

“The swim was reduced from 1.5k due to the water temperature being low but once we got going it wasn’t too bad.

“By the end I was only one minute back from the leader in about sixth place and feeling good. Also contributing to that has been attending Tuesday night masters sessions with Owen Sheftz in Peebles’ pool.

“After the first monster climb up onto the old military road I had worked my way into second place behind young GB athlete and Ciovita team-mate Lewis Williams. He had made his intentions clear in going for the win and I was looking forward to the upcoming battle.

“Sadly, Lewis punctured just as I made the catch. I gave him my repair kit but despite this his race for the win was over with the damage being too bad. He would go onto finish a still impressive fifth.

“The route is stunning with incredible views the whole way – possibly the most scenic bike race route I’ve done.”

Veitch secured a new course record on the bike and had a five-minute lead on second place.

“The run was tough but stunning with conditions being relatively mild,” said Veitch, who is sponsored by Orca, 361 and Ciovita. “Although not a lot of time to admire them, the views were incredible. It’s easy to see why Ben Nevis is such a draw even without perfect weather. By the end of the run the lead had increased to about 15 minutes.”

After heading back to Kinlochlevan on the bike via the same route in reverse, the Borderer then finished with a strong run to take the crown.

“Overall it was a fantastic race which should be a real bucket list event for anyone looking to push their limits and enjoy the best scenery Scotland has to offer,” he said.