Newman and Dimmock produce Great displays at World Championships

Wellesbourne’s Joshua Newman finished 13th and was the first home athlete across the line in the 18-19 age group while at the other end of the scale, Leamington’s Nigel Dimmock was eighth in the 70-74 category and also leading Brit.

Dimmock, a founder member of Spa Striders, completed the 750m swim (reduced from 1500m due to the cold conditions), 40k cycle and 10k run in 2hr 39min 13sec.

It was his third World Championship but Dimmock, who has lived in Leamington since 1970, said it was definitely his most memorable.

“Australia might have been warmer,” he said. “But the thrill of racing through the traffic-free landmark streets of London was unbeatable and the support from the home crowd, including family and friends, was truly inspiring.”

Newman, meanwhile, clocked a time of 2:02:06 but was left rueing a seat mishap which restricted his cycle leg.

He said: “My seat post clamp was loosened after hitting speed bumps and slipped down a considerable amount - my quadriceps were working overtime.”

Spa Striders’ Richard Shepard came 14th in the 30-34 category in 1:52:33.