A year ago, Fraser (Year 10) was selected to represent the East Midlands Triathlon Team at the National Final. After finishing 15th in the B Final, he said he wanted to come back the following year and win it.
Fast forward 12 months, and after a year of putting in the work on his cycling and running, alongside his swimming, these finals were Fraser’s chance. Due to algae conditions in the lake, the competition was changed from a triathlon to a duathlon — run, bike, run. On paper, that probably suited the stronger runners and cyclists more, as Fraser’s background up until this year has been primarily swimming.
But that didn’t stop him. Fraser won his heat and earned himself a place on the front row for the A Final.
Then, just minutes before lining up for the biggest race of his life, he signalled that he’d lost his timing chip. Cue absolute panic! The chip was found on the floor, handed back to him and he managed to strap it onto his leg with a minute to spare… definitely not the ideal race preparation!
After a strong opening run, Fraser managed to get himself into the lead group on the bike. The final run was fast, and he gave absolutely everything in the last 50 metres, kicking hard for the finish.
It wasn’t quite enough for a medal … he finished 4th. But from 15th in the B Final last year to 4th in the A Final this year. What a difference a year of hard work can make.
Well done, Fraser!
