On the 18th September Aycliffe Triathlete and local Osteopath & Ergonomist Melanie Rowland represented GB in the standard (Olympic) distance, at the World Age Group Triathlon Championships in Cozumel, Mexico, where she came 40th. She had a fantastic week, taking part in the parade of nations through the town and opening ceremony.  Melanie’s race was on the final day, and she raced the same distance and part of the same course as the Brownlee Brothers later on in the day. The swim was a mile sea swim, 28.5 degrees, with fish and changing currents. The scenery on the 40 k bike was amazing, even though she had to keep a look out for tortoises and turtles on the road! The 10k run was brutal! it was nearly 30 degrees, and Melanie ran steadily, taking on all water and ice at every station. It was an amazing experience, said Melanie, especially when you hear your name “Rowland  GB” as you exit the water and cross the finishing line. There was a great atmosphere, with lots of spectators, and athletes who had raced earlier cheering everyone on. Melanie would like to thank her husband, children, Aycliffe Triathlon Club, friends, and patients for their support and kind wishes.  This has inspired her to train hard to qualify for the next years world championships in Rotterdam