Since the 2013/14 academy squad formed last September they have been meeting regularly throughout the winter, working hard on trying to develop skills to improve performance for the future. Learn more about what they have been doing!
This year (2013/14) 3 of the South East athletes have been named in the national youth and junior talent squad, with 2 more being named to the affiliate squad. This gave the athletes the chance to go on a training camp to Spain for a week at Christmas.
The academy then had their regional camp in February at La Santa. This was for the older athletes on the squad, and it gave athletes the chance to train in hilly terrain with high winds to develop their strength. Following this 7 of the academy had the chance to go to Loughborough for the national youth and junior Easter camp.
The academy have had wonderful regional support in the South East, with the opportunities to participate in workshops on psychology, sports science, nutrition, elite level sport and lifestyle, as well as practical swim, bike and run sessions.
Early season racing has gone very well. At the National Duathlon in Corby, Richard Allen medalled with a fine bronze, in the mixed junior / senior men’s race. As a result of this superb performance Richard has been selected to compete for Great Britain at the World Duathlon Championships in the junior elite category.
Alex West travelled to Portugal for the first European Junior Cup event in April, finishing very well as first Brit and 15th overall.
The most recent academy day was held at the end of April, and the squad focussed on specific riding skills, the athletes completed a time trial, and then the focus switched to open water swimming skills and simulated practice in the pool.
The next races for the academy group will be at Hetton Park on the 23rd May, which is the European Youth Relay qualifier, the National Super Series Aquathlon at Hyde Park on the 31st May, The World Duathlon Championships on the 31st May, Blenheim on the 8th June which will be the European Championships qualifier. The next report will highlight the results from these events.
If you feel you have the ability to become part of the academy please drop Sarah Coope an e mail outlining your background in the sport, or if you are currently just swimming and running your background in these. Minimum age is 15, this year upwards.
Our next trials day is September when the squad for 2014/15 will be selected. You don’t have to wait until then to contact Sarah though.
Sarah Coope
South East Regional Academy Coach
E mail: scoopextc@aol.com
