In May Aycliffe Triathlete Melanie Rowland, took part in the Southport Triathlon, which was a qualifying event for the 2016 ITU Age-Group World Standard Distance Championship, and also the Triathlon England North West Regional Standard Distance Championship. Melanie was third in her age group (45-49), which means she has qualified to represent GB in the World Triathlon Championships in Cozumel, Mexico later on in the year. Melanie is looking forward to the challenge, where she will be racing on the same course, on the same day as GB Olympians the Brownlee Brothers. Melanie took part in a National Biathlon and National Triathlon as a child, which she enjoyed. She joined Aycliffe Tri Club in 2013, and began to compete again, winning her first triathlon towards the end of the season. She continued to have three age group, and a team win in 2015, but qualification for the World Championships has been the highlight so far. Athletes have to self fund their trip and equipment. If any business/ person would like to sponsor Melanie, please contact her on 07867 555801.