Marathon Runner Makes the Cut for Team GB

A legal assistant from Spratt Endicott Solicitors is busy training as she prepares to represent Team GB at the World Triathlon Championship in Chicago next month.

Heidi Yates, who works at the Banbury law firm, has had to compete in a number of races throughout the year, including the notorious Dambuster Triathlon in Rutland Water, Leicestershire, to qualify for the event, which takes places on Saturday, 19th September.

The event marks the first time the 34-year-old has qualified for Team GB and she said she could not be more excited.

Heidi, who is a member of Team Cherwell, a Banbury based Triathlon Club, said: “The Dambuster was a tough event and I really gave it everything I had to obtain the time I needed to qualify.

“I worked hard for it so I’m really pleased I made the cut. I’m really looking forward to being part of Team GB and giving it my all.”

She will be racing alongside women from all over the world in the 30 – 34 age category. The race will consist of a 1500m swim in Lake Michigan, a 25-mile bike ride around the city and finish with a 10km run. Heidi hopes to complete the race in around two-and-a-half hours.

The event will also be a family affair for the mum-of-one as her own mum, Kim Shaw, will be joining her on the track having also qualified to represent Team GB in her respective age category.

Heidi’s parents are keen athletes and they first inspired her to take part in the sport 8 years ago. Mum, Kim Shaw, is a former gold and bronze medallist and will also be taking part in the Chicago Triathlon.

Heidi, also ran the London Marathon last year, and said: “The training is interesting, it doesn’t get monotonous because you can do a bit of everything – my favourite part is the bike. It’s a different type of training, which makes it more enjoyable.”

Team Cherwell is a Banbury Based Triathlon Club catering for all triathletes of all levels, ability and ages.  For further information, visit their website at: https://www.teamcherwell.com/ or contact Gyles Horner at chair@teamcherwell.com.