INTREPID athletes are invited to 'take the plunge' this summer as an exhilarating series of triathlons return to the bonnie banks.

Entries are now open for the famous 'Beastie Triathlons' which will be held in Balloch Castle Country Park on Saturday, July 29.

People of all abilities are encouraged to sign up as there are three exciting events including a swim/run and two triathlons.

Organised by Lomond Swimming and Triathlon Club, the event has become more popular than ever since it began 17 years ago.

This year it will host the Scottish National Championship Aquathlon.

Club president Craig Walker, hopes to entice people of all levels to sign up.

He said: "Set in some of the most spectacular and inspirational landscape Scotland has to offer, the beastie triathlons are one of the highlights of the tri calendar.

"We are so lucky to be able to host such an amazing event.

"It's all about the achievement, so whether your a seasoned athlete or somebody looking for a unique challenge come along and give it a go, or just be here with our barmy army

of marshals to share the excitement and cheer everyone along."

The Beastie Triathlons are novice and sprint triathlons that feature open water swims and off-road routes for the cycling and running.

These include the 'Beastie Sprint Triathlon' which features a 750m open water swim, a 17K off-road cycle and a 5k run.

The 'Wee Beastie Novice Triathlon' is a 400m open water swim, a 9K off-road cycle and a 3k run.

This year there is also the 'Bikeless Beastie' - a 750m open water swim and a 5k run.

The Scottish National Championship Aquathlon will be incorporated into the Bikeless Beastie - meaning there are a few extra prizes up for grabs if participants are members of

Triathlon Scotland.

All entrants will receive a goodie bag at the finish line to mark their achievement.

To sign up go to https://www.entrycentral.com/beastie-triathlons or enter via the Lomond Swimming and Triathlon Facebook page.