Helen Jenkins has been named as one of 1143 individuals recognised on the 2019 New Year Honours list.

Two-time ITU World Champion, Jenkins is set to be appointed an MBE for her services to the sport, following the annual announcement this week.

Having been named as part of a 30-strong 2019 World Class Performance Program squad in December, Jenkins’ international career has already spanned over 16 years; seeing her compete at three Olympic Games and stand on more ITU World Triathlon Series podiums than any other British female triathlete in history.

At the London 2012 Olympics, Jenkins finished fifth, achieving what was the best ever performance by a British woman at an Olympic Games at the time. More recently, she secured Rio 2016 Olympic selection with a win over ITU World Champion, Gwen Jorgensen, at the ITU World Triathlon Series event in the Gold Coast. It was the first time in two years that anyone had beaten Jorgensen, who went on to win the Olympic title.

Jenkins tweeted: “So honoured to receive an MBE in the New Year Honours list. It’s not something I ever expected. I’m feeling proud to be part of such an amazing sport that has led me all over the world and helped me to achieve great things!”

The 34-year-old recently announced that her and husband Marc’s second child will be arriving in 2019. She had originally hoped to return to international competition this coming season following spinal surgery in 2018. 

Jenkins joins a number of individuals who have been recognised for their services to triathlon in years past, including Paralympic Champion, Andy Lewis, double Olympic Champion Alistair Brownlee and multiple IRONMAN World Champion, Chrissie Wellington.

To view the full 2019 New Year Honours list, visit here.