Southampton is gearing up for an influx of triathletes tomorrow as the city hosts the first Hampshire Tri Expo.

The one-day event, hosted by the Decathlon store on WestQuay Retail Park, is the brainchild of local coach and former Commonwealth Games athlete Dave Savage.

A host of leading brands are descending on the store to offer discounted products, tips and advice while there will also be a full programme of seminars, with the star attraction being triple Paralympic gold medal winning swimmer Peter Hull.

Savage said: “I have been delighted by the response from both the public and the exhibitors we have approached.

“In attendance, we have huge brand leaders such as Speedo and Science in Sport, a three-time Olympic Paralympian and governing bodies Triathlon England and British Time Trial Association.

“Also on offer will be free chiropractic checkups, the opportunity to join my new ‘Savage Triathlon Club’ free of charge and a host of other educational and fun activities.

“It will be a great day in which people of all ages and can come along, get involved with the interactive stands, pick up their free goodie bags, enjoy a welcome drink, enter competitions, win prizes, mingle with likeminded folk and listen in to the range of educational seminars on offer.

“I can assure those who come along will learn, have fun and have the opportunity to pick up a bargain.”

There will be plenty of other things such as gait analysis, massage, VO2 max testing and sweat testing.

In addition, The Quays are offering four 30-minute coached ‘swim fit discover’ taster sessions between 1-2pm and 3-4pm.

“The Expo has captured the imagination of local businesses and has further enhanced the growing reputation of the sport that has changed so much since I got involved 20 years ago. Fortunately, the lycra and helmets are nothing like they were,” smiled Savaged.

“For the kids, look out for the Hampshire and IOW Roadshow by the front door and get involved in the Hula Hoop, Crazy Catch and Kayak Urgos.

“Hampshire Police will be promoting a bike safety and security scheme called ‘Immobilise’.

“This is a free registration service for items with a serial number such as bikes and phones.

“There were 1,200 bikes stolen in Southampton last year. 800 were recovered but could not be traced to their owners because there was no recorded serial number. “Definitely bring your bikes along.

“To have had such positive responses has been fantastic and a reflection on the sport of triathlon.”

The event takes place from 10am-4pm and is free to enter, but to qualify for a free goodie bag while stocks last those attending need to complete a flier.

They are available at Decathlon