Dollar Academy Triathlon Programme

Dollar Academy is uniquely placed to offer a high-quality Triathlon Programme, with the surrounding landscape providing an ideal setting for swimming, cycling and running. The programme is led by Sean McFarlane, one of Scotland’s leading long-distance triathletes and adventure racers. With 23 Ironman races and multiple podium finishes, he brings extensive experience as both an elite athlete and a coach.

To support talented pupils, scholarship funding is available for boarding students who show strong triathlon ability and potential.

Overview

Dollar pupils have long excelled in swimming, cycling and running, and demand has grown for a more formal structure that builds on this strength. The Triathlon Programme aims to develop both athletic ability and lifelong fitness habits. Alongside excellent facilities, pupils gain access to global partner races and cost-effective warm-weather training camps, supported by Sean’s international coaching network.

Facilities

Dollar’s natural environment is central to the programme. Situated at the foot of the Ochil Hills, the school is surrounded by extensive running and cycling routes and has access to secluded lochs suitable for open-water swimming. Indoors, athletes benefit from two large sports halls, a swimming pool, a fitness suite and a newly expanded strength and conditioning gym. Support from nutritionists, lifestyle coaches and on-site physiotherapists further enhances training.

Programme Tiers

Elite Level

Designed for athletes aiming to compete at national or international level. Training focuses on improving performance across all three disciplines.

Guideline prerequisites:

• Swim 750m (25m pool) or 500m open water

• Cycle 30km on roads or 25km off-road

• Run 10km on flat terrain or 6km off-road

Annual cost: £750

Development Level

For pupils building skills across all disciplines, including those preparing for competitive racing.

Guideline prerequisites:

• Swim 300m

• Cycle 8km

• Run 2km

Annual cost: £500

Programme prerequisites are guidelines; individual circumstances can be discussed.

Benefits

The Triathlon Programme supports pupils seeking to improve their swimming, cycling and running while developing overall fitness. Participants benefit from:

• Specialist coaching in all disciplines

• Internationally renowned coaches

• Video analysis

• Full use of fitness and S&C facilities

• Warm-weather training camps

• Qualified nutritional support

• Training and race kit

• Physiotherapy