Saintfield’s Williamson shines in Italian sun

Saintfield’s Williamson shines in Italian sun

11 June 2025

SAINTFIELD triathlete Tom Williamson continued his impressive 2025 campaign with a breakthrough performance at the World Triathlon Para Series in Taranto, Italy, on Saturday, securing a silver medal and his first podium finish at this international level.

The 22 year-old Down Triathlon Club athlete, who competes for Ireland, delivered a superb display of strength and determination in demanding conditions. 

With temperatures soaring above 30 degrees and stifling humidity on the Italian coast, the day proved a true test of endurance for the world-class field.

Racing against seasoned international athletes, Williamson rose to the challenge. 

He showed his intent from the start, powering through the 750-metre swim in Taranto’s Mare Piccolo bay and emerging first from the water.

The race then entered its decisive phase on the 21K bike leg, where a thrilling three-way battle unfolded between Williamson, Australia’s Jack Howell and Portugal’s Filipe Marques. 

Over five fast, technical laps of the course, Williamson rode superbly, posting the fastest bike split of the day and leading the field into the concluding 5K run.

With the heat taking its toll, the run became a test of grit and pacing. Howell edged ahead in the closing stages to take gold in 1:00:34, but Williamson dug deep to hold off Marques and secure a superb silver medal — just 25 seconds behind the Australian.

Speaking after the race, Williamson said: “My first series podium. I am absolutely stoked with the result. It was a tough day out there, but there’s still plenty of room for growth and I’m excited for what’s to come.”

Posting on social media, he added: “What an honour. My first series medal. Grateful for everyone in my corner. This result means a lot, not just for me, but for everyone who’s helped me get to this point.”

This silver medal marks another milestone in Williamson’s rise through the international ranks. 

The result follows a strong fifth place at last month’s World Series event in Yokohama, Japan, and continues a season of growing momentum.

Williamson now turns his focus to the upcoming European Championships in Besançon, France, on June 14, as he continues his quest to qualify for the sport’s biggest stages.