A UNIVERSITY of Worcester academic completed the Walshee ETU Challenge Middle Distance Triathlon European Championships representing Great Britain for the first time.

Liz Davies-Ward did a 1.9km lake swim, a 90km cycle and a 21km run in Austria, coming 27th in her 50 to 54 year age category.

Davies-Ward finished the swim in 41.27, the cycling in 3.08.09 and the run in 2.14.37 for a total time of 6.10.56 with transitions.

“The race was fantastic,” said the acting head of the university’s institute of science and the environment.

“The opportunity to swim, bike and run in the most beautiful location made things more bearable.

“The swim was straightforward but the bike was more technical than expected.

“There was plenty of opportunity to pick up time on the amazing downhills but the slog up the four hills required focus and perseverance.

“The run involved four laps of the lake with some gradual inclines. The weather was glorious but not ideal for racing as it was so hot.

“I lost a little bit of time on the run because of the need to keep adequately hydrated.

“I was very pleased with my overall time although there were lots of lessons learnt, especially in transition.”

The Hereford Triathlon Club member, 53, hopes to qualify for the same championships in Denmark next year.