Thomas Elsdon achieved an impressive result on his international debut after representing Great Britain at the European Multisport Championships Aquathlon in Banyoles, Spain.
Competing against some of Europe’s best young athletes in sweltering temperatures that reached 34°C, the Cambridge Triathlon Club member finished 23rd overall, sixth in the Under-20 category, and was the second British athlete home in his age group.
For Elsdon, 15, wearing the Great Britain tri-suit for the first time was the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.
Thomas Elsdon crosses the finishing line in Spain
“It felt good,” he said. “I have wanted to wear a GBR tri-suit since competing at the regional junior races for the last few years.
“It was very exciting to be among all the European athletes, including lots of GBR athletes.”
The aquathlon, which combines swimming and running, was held in the picturesque lakeside town of Banyoles.
Despite the intense heat and warm lake temperatures, Thomas produced a composed performance, particularly during the run section, which he regards as his strongest discipline.
“I paced myself to the conditions,” he explained. “The water was hot to swim in, but I took cold water at each station to make sure I was still able to run strong through the whole race.”
Although making his debut at this level, North Wootton-based Elsdon kept his approach simple.
“My plan was to enjoy the experience and try my best. I went with how my body felt because I hadn’t raced in those conditions or at that level before.”
His journey in triathlon began seven years ago when he entered his first race as an eight-year-old.
Already enjoying swimming and running, he was encouraged to try multisport by family friends and quickly discovered a passion for the sport.
A memorable birthday present two years later provided extra inspiration.
“When I was 10, I received a signed photo from the Brownlee brothers with a note saying, ‘Keep enjoying the training and hope to see you in a GB vest one day.’ That inspired me to achieve more in the sport.”
Representing Great Britain at just 15-years-old has only strengthened his determination to compete on the international stage again.
“It has made me think about wanting to do it more,” he said.
“Travelling and seeing Banyoles was great. Meeting athletes of different ages was fantastic and everyone was so supportive. I wanted to do well and I feel I did. I’m proud of how it all went.”
Away from the race course, one of Thomas’s highlights was the championship venue itself.
“The whole experience was fantastic. Swimming in the lake multiple times for training, racing and fun was just incredible.”
The King Edward VII Academy student is quick to acknowledge the support network that has helped him reach this level.
“My mum and dad have supported me and love watching me race.
“I’m a member of Cambridge Triathlon Club and they are great for encouraging me.
“ I also swim for West Norfolk Swim Club, and the coaching and training there really help too.”
With his first European Championships now behind him, Thomas is already looking ahead to the next challenge.
He hopes to improve on previous performances at this weekend’s Outlaw Sprint Triathlon and has ambitious long-term goals.
“I would like to represent Great Britain again and qualify for European and World Triathlon events,” he said.
After an outstanding debut on the European stage, there is little doubt that Thomas’s ambition has only grown stronger.
“Most definitely,” he said when asked if the experience had increased his desire to compete at a higher level in the future.
Thomas Elsdon during the run discipline
We have launched a twice-weekly newsletter covering sport in Fenland and West Norfolk.
To subscribe, visit: https://www.lynnnews.co.uk/newsletter