Local Triathletes Bid for Success

We hear directly from local resident Trish Deykin.

As I’m typing this my arms and legs are aching after my hard training session from this morning. But all the hard work is worth it. I recently competed in the GB team for my age group in the European Triathlon Championships in Athlone, Ireland. The race consisted of a 1500m swim in the river Shannon, a 40k cycle with a full on headwind and heavy rain followed by a 10k run around the town.

I finished 8th and beat last years bronze medallist. Not bad considering I also suffer from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and to be honest I had not been well at all at the beginning of the year. 

When I was first diagnosed six years ago, I was told to stop competing in Triathlons – but now the MS nurses think that triathlons are keeping my MS at bay. Sure, I have my bad days/weeks when my training is put on hold, but training and competing gives me hope and determination.

This determination has paid off in recent years with numerous 1st, 2nd and 3rd results at triathlons locally and further a field.

I’m hoping to qualify for next years European Championships in Spain and I’m determined to be on the winning podium.

The problem is that I’m up against fellow competitors who are on £3000 carbon fibre bikes which are far quicker. In order to be on the podium I need sponsorship.

I have the backing from the MS society, but being a charity they are unable to help with costs.

Alex Cole (Coles of Edburton) came up with a brilliant idea where different companies/donators pay for parts of the bike i.e one pays for the frame, one pays for the wheels etc. Alex generously said he would be part of this co-operative.

If anyone is able to help me become a medal winner at the 2011 European Championships, please contact me on 07779326895 or email: trishthefish@btinternet.com.

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