Guernsey Triathlon Club Junior Josh Thornton, finished a successful Triathlon season with another fine victory, this time at the Hever Castle Triathlon, the World’s largest Junior Triathlon.  1600 juniors took part and it was the finale of the UK Castle Triathlon Series.

Thornton was the fastest out of 204 athletes competing in his top age group and finished the 300 metre swim 8k bike and 4k run in a very credible time of 48 minutes 47 seconds.

The open swim in the 38 acre Hever Lake, was followed by an undulating off road cycle, and finished with a run through steep tree-lined tracks.

This top Junior Event was hotly challenged by competitors from all over the UK and Europe. It was a tremendous gritty performance from the 14 year old and a fantastic way to end his season and following up his win at the recent local Granite Man Sprint triathlon.

The combination of an excellent swim, a very fast bike circuit, was topped by a quick sprint, usually his weakest discipline. Sadly he was not so good in the 4th discipline, the transitions, as he couldn’t remember where he’d put his bike.

Preparations included waking that morning at 5am for a flight, the mental challenges of assembling his bike in airport arrivals, and pacing his pre-race fuel of chocolate muffins, and fizzy cola drinks.  ‘Obviously, this is now a tried and tested formula for success, said Josh."