Mansfield Triathlon Club’s Michelle Willcocks has been crowned Nottinghamshire Amateur Sportsperson Of The Year following a champagne reception and award.

The Ravenshead athlete was presented with her award at a champagne ceremony at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham, following an outstanding run of achievements over the past two years.

Michelle had won a European gold medal, two European silvers and six British and national golds.

Her success is even more noteworthy as she had major life-changing abdominal surgery as a result of being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.

Undeterred, she used that to renew her determination to succeed in her sport.

“I’m thrilled to accept this reward and I’m really keen to get the message out there that having an ostomy need not be a barrier to leading a full life,” Michelle said.

“I had some very tough competition for the award and my congratulations to the very worthy runners-up, Chloe Adcock and Maria Tsaptsinos, for their own achievements.”

Meanwhile, the club’s Tyler Broome won the East Midlands junior series after he cruised into a third place at the Lincoln Junior Triathlon, having dominated the series all season.

Also putting in a fine performance for the club at Lincoln and rounding off a successful racing season were Emily Alcock, James Flint, Kurtis Nogueira, Felix Wilson, Daisy Wilson, Anna Woodhall and Alfie Brown.

Club secretary Claire Allison said: “Michelle’s incredible achievements as an adult member and Tyler’s success as a junior show the strength the club has across all age groups.

“But triathlon isn’t just for the very best athletes — it’s a sport that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people and is a great way to get fit and have fun.”

For more information on how to get involved visit www.mansfieldtri.com or www.facebook.com/groups/MansfieldTri or e mail [email protected].