2024 is coming to an end, and it has been a year of highs and lows our sponsored rider, Seraphina, tells us.
Last year was a curveball to say the least. When I was hit with glandular fever in 2023, the exhaustion that came with it side lined me far longer than I’d anticipated, which was not only frustrating, but extremely frightening. Sometimes, life forces us to take a step back, and that break turned out to be a much-needed opportunity for reflection and growth. As Spring rolled around, my health improved, and I found myself not just ready to take on the challenges of sport again, but also in a completely new frame of mind.
One of the most impactful experiences during this time was my involvement in a Para induction day at Loughborough University. This remarkable event introduced me to an amazing group of people including Sophie, an inspiring female VI athlete. Until this point, my guiding experiences had predominantly been with male athletes, so the opportunity to work with a female athlete, where we could potentially race, was particularly exciting.
By June, as my health improved, I joined Sophie to race her first triathlon at the World Triathlon Para Series in Swansea, and to our delight, she secured first place. Our subsequent event, the Arctic One Paratri Festival, further showcased our growing synergy. With my strength returning, and Sophie gaining confidence on the tandem, we celebrated another victory. Who knew Tandems were so much fun!
Later in the year, at the British Triathlon Super Series Grand Final, our teamwork paid off, as Sophie claimed the series win in the female PTVI category. In November, I received the incredible honour of being the first guide invited to join the British Triathlon Para Academy.
In June, during a camp at Loughborough, the coaches encouraged me to explore the Elite Athlete Program offered at Loughborough College. This whirlwind decision led me to move into the Elite Athlete Performance Centre in September. I have now also transitioned to the Midland’s triathlon academy, to supplement the support from Loughborough triathlon academy and the additional resources I receive through multiple programs.
I am having a lot of fun on my Madone SL 7 Gen 7 up here; we are definitely putting in the miles. Trek have created a machine that is comfortable, but is also aerodynamic and fast; it gives you everyday advantages in speed, handling and comfort and turns heads everywhere I go- I absolutely love it. I am looking forward to racing on it in in the British Triathlon Super Series and for Lea Valley Youth Cycling Club in 2025.
2024 has tested me, but it’s also been a lot of fun- I have made fantastic friendships and the new paths taken have solidified my love for the sport. I’m looking forward to seeing what 2025 has in store and as always, I am extremely grateful for the support from Highway Cycles, TREK and GART.
Are you ready to unleash your competitive cycling side in 2025?
Drop into one of our stores, or visit: www.highwaycycles.co.uk
