In May this year, former Northampton School for Boys student Josh Cardwell competed in the British University & College Sports (BUCS) Triathlon Championships. He was competing for Loughborough University where he is studying for a BSc in Sports Science with Management, finishing at the end of June.

The race consisted of 1500m Swim, 40km Bike & 10km Run which is the Olympic distance. The race was extremely tough starting as it did at 2.00pm in the sweltering heat with temperatures hitting 29 degrees.

Josh swam hard from the start and led out of the water closely followed by two other Loughborough Triathlon team mates, with the rest of the field a minute behind. He then pushed himself on the 40km bike and pulled away from his teammates coming into transition with a minutes lead. Josh then went on to post the fastest run of the day to win by 3 and ½ minutes. This is his second BUCS title having won the same race in 2011.

Team mate Luke Watson finished in 2nd position and Loughborough's third member finished in 5th which helped them win the Team Gold.

The whole of the Cardwell family were out in force which made the victory even more special.

This result means that Josh has been selected for the World Student Championships being held in Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) at the end of June (24/06/2012 - 01/07/2012). This will be his first Great Britain representation since the European Youth Championships in 2007 where he won Gold.

BUCS have met half of the costs, but have asked that a self funding contribution of £1200 is also required. Josh is currently looking for sponsorship support to help cover the costs of the trip and would hugely appreciate any kind of assistance that can be offered.

Josh commented "I was particularly pleased with my bike as it is normally my weakness in races. This Easter I spent two weeks at Tri Camp Mallorca focussing on my cycling. I think the cycle strength showed through in this race.

My training is going well so I am feeling confident three weeks out from the race. The trip will be my first time out of Europe and I know I will learn a great deal both racing and in experiencing a very different culture."

If anyone is interested in helping with sponsorship they can contact him at:  joshua.cardwell@btinternet.com

Everyone at Northampton School for Boys wishes Josh the best of luck at the forthcoming World Championships. He was an outstanding athlete whilst at the school and has taken his skills to even greater heights.