26-06-2025
Island triathletes secure place in World Championships
(L-R) Liz and Jan qualify for World Championships after tough Cardiff race (Image: Wight Tri)
Two Isle of Wight athletes have secured a place in the 2026 World Championships.
Jan Fletcher and Liz Dunlop, of Wight Tri, braved stormy conditions in the Cardiff Standard Distance Triathlon, marking the first GB Age Group qualification for the World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.
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Having enjoyed sunny weather on June 21, the duo faced a challenging race day with rough seas, strong winds, and difficult bike and run courses.
Launching together in the female wave, Jan completed the swim in 29 minutes, and 39 seconds, with Liz following in 36 minutes, and 49 seconds.
Both navigated Cardiff Bay's bike course, with Jan clocking one hour, 12 minutes, and 57 seconds and Liz finishing in one hour, 23 minutes, and 11 seconds.
READ MORE: Final round of mountain bike race to be held on Island
Despite a headwind, Jan crossed the line in a sensational two hours, 24 minutes, and 35 seconds coming fourth in the 50–54 category, just 16 seconds from the podium.
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She finished 22nd out of 167 women overall.
Liz, finishing in two hours, 52 minutes, and 58 seconds, secured fourth in the 65–69 category and 97th overall.
Her upcoming move to the 70–74 age group has earned her automatic qualification for the 2026 World Championships.
After two months of relentless racing, Jan and Liz will now take a break before resuming training.
