Colin Hinsley, Viceroy 1 (of 5) competing at the World Championships at Edmonton, Canada this week

WHAT/WHEN ARE YOU RACING AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS?

Aquathlon and Sprint Triathlon – Wed 27 (Aquathlon) and Fri 29 (Sprint)

HOW DID YOU BECOME A GB ‘AGE GROUPER’?

Naturally, my path to the world champs was tough, agonising, full of sacrifices but ultimately glorious. To be fair, and if the truth were known, it turned out to be a little easier than that – albeit nerve racking and demanding.

My preparation, was good to a point, I had booked all three qualifying races in good time and done a reasonable amount of training. Sadly, and despite being married for 15 years (n.b. the sadly refers to how long I have been married not my triathlon trepidations), I had neglected to get all dates cleared by the long haired General, which meant race 3 was off the cards (trumped by the Book club trip to Puerto Buenos – the cultural capital of??).

Back onto the facts and races….. Race 1 Nottingham Sprint – put in a belting race at Nottingham only to be busted for drafting (which was a fair call ) and then straight into the last chance saloon with only one race to go. Luckily race 2 was my favourite course at Rother Valley, fortunately where the course referees are far more lenient, idle and less observant – so managed to qualify without any infringements.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED WITH / INTERESTED IN TRIATHLON?

My triathlon background is one of chance some 6 years ago. My first triathlon was a birthday present, at the time viewed as my worst present of all time and done in a surf wetsuit, hybrid bike and no training. Since then, I have done a lot of swim lessons, got a proper bike, joined a club and become fixated on measuring fitness efforts.

ANYTHING ELSE?

I would encourage everyone to have a go at qualifying to represent their country – it is hard but is a goal that will help to take you forward (whether you qualify or not) – good luck all.

Colin