Tamsin Bowden: A Triathlon Journey with Rivers Gifted and Talented
Tamsin Bowden, a devoted French teacher and an unwavering enthusiast of athletics, in particular running. Tamsin’s story is one that reflects the spirit of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.
For years, Tamsin has been a keen member of the Evesham Vale Running Club, carving her path through the local trails with spirited determination. Yet, her journey took an unexpected turn when injuries knocked on her door, urging her to explore the world of triathlon and duathlon. At the age of 47, Tamsin embarked on an incredible journey, exploring triathlon training.
A chance meeting with British Triathlon coach Paul Gardner of Lovetri Swimwerkx marked a pivotal moment in Tamsin’s journey. This meeting, that happened by fate at a local lake swim last September, breathed new life into her athletic aspirations. Having secured a spot in the prestigious Team GB Age Group event, the Triathlon World Championships slated for September in Pontevedra, Spain, Tamsin was poised to elevate her performance to unprecedented heights.
With a focus on refining her swimming prowess, Tamsin’s collaboration with Paul Gardner became a source of motivation and invaluable support. The results have been nothing short of astonishing. This year, she acheived running and biking times that defied expectations for her age, with a noteworthy 5k parkrun personal best time of 19:34. Her tenacity paid off when she secured a remarkable bronze medal for her age group at the Duathlon World Championships held in Ibiza in April. This achievement, accompanied by an impressive 10K run time, placed her in close proximity to the Gold medalist, fellow Brit Lindsay James.
Central to Tamsin’s journey is the role of Rivers Gifted and Talented and access to resources and facilities that have amplified her training regimen. As she strives to fine-tune her swimming technique and maintain her strength to avoid potential injuries, Tamsin recognises the crucial role that Rivers plays in her pursuit of excellence. While her run and bike performances showcase her competitive edge, the swimming component remains vital in the journey to achieving her goals for an age group medal at the upcoming Pontevedra championships.
Tamsin’s gratitude towards Rivers Gifted and Talented is evident, as she begins her summer training regimen. With school holidays, Tamsin is gearing up to fully immerse herself in the outstanding facilities offered by Rivers. It’s the place where she refines her skills, where her journey towards athletic success thrives.
Tamsin Bowden’s reflects the power of dedication and the rewards of pushing one’s limits. Her partnership with Rivers Gifted and Talented stands as a testament to the environment that encourages excellence and fuels the goals of people like her. As she prepares herself to take on the world stage in Pontevedra, Spain, Tamsin’s story serves as an inspiration, and shows the potential that comes from passion, persistence, and the support of a community.