Barnstaple paratriathlete ready to show the power of inclusive sporting events

Barnstaple paratriathlete Michael Taylor believes the upcoming World Triathlon Para Series in Swansea will break new ground in inspiring more disabled people to be active – and wants to see even more events championing accessible opportunities for all.

The Devon athlete who took part in the Tokyo Paralympics, will be seeking to secure crucial Paris 2024 qualification points at World Triathlon Para Series Swansea on July 15, and hopes to enjoy the opportunity on home soil competing against all the world’s best.

The event is set to create a unique participation opportunity, which will see the same venue created for world-class athletes opened up for those taking part in the ‘Splash and Dash’ or ‘British Paratri Super Series’.

The Splash and Dash is free to enter and registration is available until 11:45pm on Friday, July 14: https://www.britishtriathlon.org/events/2023-world-triathlon-para-series-swansea_14122.

Reflecting on his own sporting journey, and the importance of home sporting events for inspiring more inclusive and accessible sporting opportunities that reach everyone, Taylor said: “I can’t wait to get back in Swansea, it was a great race last year – it’s always a good crowd in Wales so I can’t wait to see what they’ve got in store for this year. These major competitions are really important as triathlon may not always be a sport everyone has heard of, so hosting these events in big cities like Swansea where lots of people can watch is brilliant as it encourages more people to get involved.”

“Having the participation events on the same day is great because everyone can enjoy sport, it’s not just limited to watching it on TV. Being able to experience triathlon for yourself and then watch the races also makes it more relatable, sporting events are important because it’s an opportunity to remove barriers for people, and actively welcome them into a sporting space they may not have ever thought was for them”.

World Triathlon Para Series Swansea will play an integral role in British Triathlon’s ‘Everyone Starts Somewhere’ campaign which aims to encourage disabled people to take part in whatever ways they are most comfortable. The focus is to provide support and a safe environment for individuals to get involved and to achieve their goals, whatever those may be.

For more information and to register for ‘Splash and Dash or the ‘British Paratri Super Series’ visit https://www.britishtriathlon.org/events/2023-world-triathlon-para-series-swansea_14122.

Event details and information about spectating is available on the event website - https://www.britishtriathlon.org/events/major-events/world-triathlon-para-series-swansea.