72-year-old Mumbles Triathlete joins Team GB for European Championships

Mumbles triathlete Wayne Richards, who at the age of 72, will be competing for Team GB in the upcoming European Championships in Portugal on June 22.

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Wayne is being sponsored by local Estate Agency, Belvoir Swansea who have managed his property portfolio for the past twelve years, while he dedicates his time to training and competing in triathlons.

Wayne Richards’ journey into the world of triathlons began at age of 65.

Wayne, said: “I remember the moment well. Mumbles Road was closed for the Swansea Sprint Triathlon, and I had to cycle to my gym at The Village Hotel from my home in Mumbles. I remember coming across the swimming leg and thinking ‘I could do that! I’ll give it a go!’

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“I used to swim in the outdoor swimming pool in Ystalyfera throughout my childhood and I was a strong swimmer, but nothing prepares you for the intensity of a triathlon. I soon realised that it wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be. But I got hooked!”

Training with the Swansea Tri Sharks in Langland and receiving additional coaching from Swim Co and GJ Endurance, Wayne has built a strong support network that has seen him through numerous competitions. His determination led him to complete the inaugural Swansea Ironman 70.3 for his 70th birthday, marking a significant milestone in his life.

Triathlete Wayne Richards and Belvoir MD Ben Davies
Triathlete Wayne Richards and Belvoir MD Ben Davies

Belvoir Swansea’s Managing Director, Ben Davies, expressed his admiration for Wayne’s achievements: “We are incredibly proud to sponsor Wayne’s kit for the European Championships. His dedication and passion for the sport is truly inspiring, and it’s a privilege to support him as he represents Team GB. Wayne is a testament to the fact that age is just a number, and his story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions.”

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Wayne Richards added, “I’m passionate about helping people my age understand that age is just a number and there’s no age limit to keeping fit and trying something new! I’ve found the triathlon community to be incredibly supportive and inclusive too. While many fellow athletes are half my age, it just pushes me to test my physical limits! I’d recommend getting into a new sport to anyone and I’m excited to see what this weekend will bring as part of Team GB!”

Wayne’s 6-day-a-week training regime includes running across Gower, swimming in Langland Bay, and cycling extensive routes from Mumbles to Neath, Aberdulais, Crynant, and over the mountains of the Dulais Valley.

Belvoir Swansea say they are honoured to be a part of Wayne’s journey. It says that supporting Wayne’s unwavering spirit and determination with this kit sponsorship is one of many ways it is supporting individuals and good causes across the Swansea region.

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