A major triathlon event is set to attract thousands of competitors.

The Supertri competition at Blenheim Palace will take place on June 6 and 7 at the historic estate, marking the only swim-bike-run festival worldwide held within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Around 7,000 athletes are expected to take part over the weekend at the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

Gemma, a mother of eight-year-old twins, will attempt her first triathlon despite having feared water her entire life.

Gemma, 41, from Swindon, said she hopes to prove to her twins that any goal can be reached. She added that demonstrating resilience by pushing beyond one’s comfort zone sets a powerful example.

Her journey has included losing 10 stone and completing an extensive round of IVF with her husband before their twins were born.

She signed up through Supertri’s beginner programme, which offers newcomers 12 weeks of free personalised triathlon training, interactive online sessions, and expert support for first-timers on race day.

Michael D’hulst, Supertri’s Chief Executive, said Blenheim Palace is a key fixture in Britain’s triathlon calendar. He noted that with 50 days to go, they look forward to welcoming athletes of all skill levels to compete in such an extraordinary setting. He advised that spots are filling quickly and encouraged people to register without delay to guarantee their place on race day.