White Rose Triathletes, the York-based triathlon club, have been awarded STAR club status by British Triathlon, the national governing body for the sport.

White Rose are one of the first triathlon clubs in the country, and the only club in Yorkshire and Humberside, to receive the honour.

The STAR accreditation is awarded only to senior clubs that operate within regulated guidelines laid down by British Triathlon. These guidelines govern such topics as coaching standards, equity policy, members' welfare, financial integrity and raising the profile of the sport.

Members of White Rose have spent the past year preparing for this award. They now boast their own club premises at Wigginton playing fields, have four level two coaches who take a number of weekly training sessions, three level two qualified race referees, a qualified welfare officer and a regular newsletter to keep members informed of club activities.

In December, members of White Rose, along with staff from Courtney's Gym, raised more than £1,200 for the British Heart Foundation by completing a continuous 24-hour indoor relay triathlon.

Last weekend the club hosted the first of two one day triathlon training workshops for budding triathletes which attracted ten newcomers. The next workshop is planned for March 12, with a mini-triathlon on April 16.

White Rose are now working towards the Sport England Clubmark award which is given to junior sports clubs which achieve quality operating standards. "This will be a great boost to our junior club," said club secretary Peter Mathieson.

White Rose are keen to attract new members of all ages and abilities. Details can be found on the website www.whiterosetri.co.uk or from Mathieson on 07941 972059.

Updated: 11:16 Friday, February 25, 2005