THE Henley-on-Mersey festival was the backdrop for race two of the Tasmanian Triathlon Series yesterday.

The event, which was hosted by the Cradle Coast Triathlon and Multisport Club, has enjoyed a strong partnership with the Henley-on-Mersey committee and has proven to be a popular part of the festival with spectators lining the course and provided encouragement to all competitors.

This year the events were well supported with the largest number of competitors taking part in several years.

Launceston-based athlete Dylan Evans was outstanding in winning the open event. Evans lead off the bike and held on to win from Devonport's Fraser Lyon. Jonathon Butler, of Launceston, finished third.

Ulverstone's Andrew Watson took out the junior division from Gabe Dennison, of Burnie, and Kier Crooks, of Launceston.

Launceston's Anthony Manshanden continued his outstanding early season for  a win in the veteran males' category from Paul Bidgood, of Ulverstone, and Rodney Boxhall, of Launceston.

In the women's race it was Launceston's Kate Pedley's debut race for the season.

Pedley lead from start to finish in a dominant display with the consistent Melissa Clark, of Launceston, finishing in second and Devonport's Emma Smith in third. Ulverstone's Frances Roberts took out the junior female category and Hobart's Sheila Barrett won the women's veteran category from Launceston's Narelle Wynwood and Meg Lade.

Racing started early with the Trystars events for seven to 11-year-olds.

Ulverstone's Tom Roberts and Devonport's Inighion Quinn won the super sprint novice race.