An epic performance by Mark Edmonds resulted in a 7th place finish in this weekend's World Age Group Triathlon Championships in Abu Dhabi.

After missing much of the season to care for his recently passed father, Mark had just 9 weeks to prepare for the race. Putting together a schedule that involved 2 swims, 2 bikes and 2 runs a week at high intensity was daunting but Mark pulled it off in magnificent style.

In searing 30 degree temperatures Mark was 3rd out of the water in a time of 00:22:36 for the 1500m swim, a 00:58:52 on the 39km ride meant slipping to 6th overall with just the run to go. 00:44:45 in blistering heat was enough to keep well inside the top 10 and only 3 minutes off the podium.

All of us at the Shaftesbury are super proud of your performance Mark, you have shown true grit and determination just to get to the start line. Your father would have been proud. Chapeau!