![\"Thomas](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ULE3NKHIGELRGQSH24MO.jpg\")
Thomas Elsdon crosses the finishing line in Spain<\/p>\nThomas Elsdon achieved an impressive result on his international debut after representing Great Britain at the European Multisport Championships Aquathlon in Banyoles, Spain.<\/p>\n
Competing against some of Europe\u2019s best young athletes in sweltering temperatures that reached 34\u00b0C, 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.<\/p>\n
For Elsdon, 15, wearing the Great Britain tri-suit for the first time was the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.<\/p>\n
Thomas Elsdon crosses the finishing line in Spain<\/p>\n
\u201cIt felt good,\u201d he said. \u201cI have wanted to wear a GBR tri-suit since competing at the regional junior races for the last few years.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was very exciting to be among all the European athletes, including lots of GBR athletes.\u201d<\/p>\n
The aquathlon, which combines swimming and running, was held in the picturesque lakeside town of Banyoles.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cI paced myself to the conditions,\u201d he explained. \u201cThe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Although making his debut at this level, North Wootton-based Elsdon kept his approach simple.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy plan was to enjoy the experience and try my best. I went with how my body felt because I hadn\u2019t raced in those conditions or at that level before.\u201d<\/p>\n
His journey in triathlon began seven years ago when he entered his first race as an eight-year-old.<\/p>\n
Already enjoying swimming and running, he was encouraged to try multisport by family friends and quickly discovered a passion for the sport.<\/p>\n
A memorable birthday present two years later provided extra inspiration.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I was 10, I received a signed photo from the Brownlee brothers with a note saying, \u2018Keep enjoying the training and hope to see you in a GB vest one day.\u2019 That inspired me to achieve more in the sport.\u201d<\/p>\n
Representing Great Britain at just 15-years-old has only strengthened his determination to compete on the international stage again.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has made me think about wanting to do it more,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cTravelling 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\u2019m proud of how it all went.\u201d<\/p>\n
Away from the race course, one of Thomas\u2019s highlights was the championship venue itself.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe whole experience was fantastic. Swimming in the lake multiple times for training, racing and fun was just incredible.\u201d<\/p>\n
The King Edward VII Academy student is quick to acknowledge the support network that has helped him reach this level.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy mum and dad have supported me and love watching me race.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m a member of Cambridge Triathlon Club and they are great for encouraging me.<\/p>\n
\u201c I also swim for West Norfolk Swim Club, and the coaching and training there really help too.\u201d<\/p>\n
With his first European Championships now behind him, Thomas is already looking ahead to the next challenge.<\/p>\n
He hopes to improve on previous performances at this weekend\u2019s Outlaw Sprint Triathlon and has ambitious long-term goals.<\/p>\n
\u201cI would like to represent Great Britain again and qualify for European and World Triathlon events,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
After an outstanding debut on the European stage, there is little doubt that Thomas\u2019s ambition has only grown stronger.<\/p>\n
\u201cMost definitely,\u201d he said when asked if the experience had increased his desire to compete at a higher level in the future.<\/p>\n
![\"Thomas](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/britain\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IDHTC0LWQG1BZ1QAFDPF.jpg\")
Thomas Elsdon during the run discipline<\/p>\n
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