Tom on a high

Tom on a high

6 December 2023

A SAINTFIELD triathlete has defied the odds and made his mark on the world triathlon scene.

It seemed as though any hopes that 20 year-old Tom Williamson would be representing Team Ireland on the big stage had been dashed in May this year after he sustained serious shoulder and wrist injuries after colliding with a car whilst he was cycling in Saintfield. 

However, through sheer grit and determination, Tom recently made his international debut at the World Triathlon Para Cup in Malaga and claimed a very impressive sixth position over the 750m swim, 20K bike and 5K run sprint course in an impressive time of 1:01:18.

A little over a week later, Tom was competing again at the World Triathlon Para Cup, only this time in Taranto, Italy, and it was here he would secure his maiden medal.

He executed a superb swim, exiting the water in lead position before experienced French man Thibault Reby managed to claw back enough time on the bike segment of the race to lead into the run and secure the overall win by a very narrow seven seconds ahead of Tom. 

However, Tom’s fantastic second place time of 1:02:38 saw him on his first international podium in just his second international race to receive a silver medal.

“A setback is a setup,” said Tom.

“A few months ago, I thought this season was a write-off. I’m so honoured to have represented Team Ireland in Malaga and Taranto and absolutely stoked to have achieved a podium with a silver medal on my second international race.

“I’ve learned lots in the past couple of weeks,” he continued. 

“It’s been a fantastic experience, and I’ve met great new friends from many countries who I look forward to meeting and racing again.”

Tom is a former Down High School student now studying at the University of Stirling on an international sports performance scholarship. 

He swam competitively for Lecale Swimming Club, cycled with Crossgar Cycling Club and is a member of the flourishing Down Triathlon Club.

Tom is now in winter training mode and looking forward to what should be an exciting international triathlon season next year.