Patrick Newman,  Lead Junior Coach of Bristol and District Triathlon Club (BAD Tri), is due to retire from his position in December 2017 and all of us at Triathlon England South West would like to not only wish him well in his future endeavors but also thank him for his tremendous enthusiasm and efforts over the past 7 years.

He has had a huge impact on children’s triathlon in Bristol, creating a club that puts each and every child’s enjoyment and personal aims at the heart of all they do. Patrick became involved in the junior triathlon club at B.A.D Tri seven years ago when there were only between 15 and 20 children attending. B.A.D. Tri junior club now has 150 active members ranging age from 8 to 17. It is a vibrant club where smiling is paramount and having fun remains the most important focus during each two hour Saturday training sessions. 

His dedication and enthusiasm to make triathlon training fun for all have led to this success and has been the ethos of this club as it has developed. Patrick has always had the children at the centre of his planning, ensuring they all feel valued and included and are helped to develop. He loves to see the children flourish and enjoy the sport he loves so much.

Patrick has also actively encouraged and supported parents to get involved and help at sessions, with many also developing their own coaching talents, going on to gain the Level One and Level Two British Triathlon Coaching Awards. Neil Kerfoot, of BAD Tri reflects “He has seamlessly encouraged, mentored and improved on our coaching skills with his positive feedback on how we are doing and how we have structured our training plans.” Maria Powell, also commented “He has been extremely supportive in nurturing new coaches; encouraging parents to become involved, helping them to become qualified and mentoring them as they develop. (I know as I am one of those parents.)”

As Patrick in his now in his 70th year, he feels it is time for him to step away from his lead coach role and begin to really enjoy his retirement. Triathlon has become a hugely popular sport but it is people like Patrick who are at the heart of children’s triathlon development and he will be missed greatly when he finally steps away from his role in December of this year.

However he will leave a very strong club with great parental support and a group of coaches who will continue to evolve the club maintaining inclusiveness and fun for all as its ethos.

Thank you Patrick Newman!