Triathlon
Local triathlete wins Team GB place

Buy photos » Derek Barlow shows off his honours. (s)

CHURCH LENCH'S Derek Barlow produced a fine performance at the Rother Valley Triathlon Festival to clinch qualification for the European Sprint Triathlon Championships, to be held in Alanya, Turkey, in June 2013.

Representing Absolute Triathlon Club of Worcester, Barlow finished second in his age group of 60-64 and recorded a total time of 1hr and 32mins for the 750m swim, 25km bike and 5km run.

He was pleased with his time, as the bike leg was extremely hilly and testing, whilst he recorded a personal best of 23mins 11secs for the run.

The 61-year-old said: "Having finished in a qualifying place in June for the World Championships and for the Olympic distance triathlon at Strathclyde three weeks ago, together with gaining a roll down place at Bala, 2012 has been a great season for me.

"Triathlon is a very fair sport and gives athletes of all ages the opportunity to compete for their country and I'm looking forward very much to being part of the GB team."

If you are interested in getting involved with triathlon or want to learn more, contact Adrian Crabbe on 07753 236601 or visit www.absolutetriathlonworcester.co.uk.

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