My name is Michael Bradbury, I am a 24 year old Triathlete from the United Kingdom who represents Great Britain AG team. I have been racing for just under 2 years I raced locally up until i got selected for the ITU World Triathlon Sprint Championships in Edmonton Canada where i got exposed to international events I placed in my AG 52nd in the World and 10th GB, I then got conformation of selection for the European Triathlon Championships in Geneva July 15. I am more determined than ever to do well at the Europeans.

My goal is simple. I want to win national and international titles and develop into a top class international athlete. This is my dream and with the support of individuals and organisations like yours, I can try and I can succeed.

Triathlon is a demanding sport both in terms of time and financial commitments. Unfortunately there are little or no government grants for our sport. An aspiring athlete has very little assistance with expenditure on training, coaching, camps, and equipment, travel, accommodation and competition costs.

How did I get into such a difficult sport? I was asked by a close friend if I wanted to compete in a triathlon so we could win a team medal they was a man down, however I couldn’t swim well much I struggled with breaststroke massively and always hyperventilated however I could bike at a high level and run as good as many others so my aim was to survive the swim! I turned up at the event ready to go I just about go through the swim however once I was on the bike I almost went from last but 2 up to the top 10 out of a field of 80 odd and then held my pace on the run for a top 6 finish, only then I said to myself “I’m going to teach myself to swim” and this is how my obsession for a multi sport occurred I have never looked back.

My Best results include;

– 14th National Sprint Distance

-10th GB AG 20-24 World Sprint Championships

However i want to add to the tally with a strong result at the Europeans.

For example, a typical International race will involve the following expenses:

Race entry cost ~£213

Return flights to and from my destination for me (£1500+) my bike (£160)

Accommodation for at least two nights at my race destination ~ £65 per night

Food and costs involved in getting prepped and ready for the race ~ £40

I have planned several races for the 2014 season inc a International race (European triathlon championships). I will begin racing in Feb and race right through to October 2015.

With your support, I will have the best opportunity to reach my maximum potential.

Www.mbradbury6172.wordpress.com

Twitter: @mike_brad6172

Facebook: Michael Bradbury