Ashville pupil in Greece for 2022 Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run European Championships

An Ashville pupil has flown to the birthplace of the Olympic Games to compete in the 2022 Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run European Championships.

As a member of the Pentathlon GB squad, Lydia Eastwood will be taking part this weekend in the Girls U13 Individual Laser Run and the U13 Mixed Laser Run Relay.

Laser Run is a two-discipline event where athletes run and shoot, and complete a number of laps depending on their age. Each lap includes running and shooting.

Being held in Marathon – famously known as the site where the Ancient Greek army was victorious against the Invading Persian forces in 490 BCE – it comes less than a fortnight after taking part in the World Championships, held in Lisbon, Portugal, where she helped secure gold for the GB U13 girls’ team.

Last month, and in preparation for both events, Lydia finished first in the Girls U13 age group at the Biathle of the Roses competition at Allerthorpe lake in York, which is part of the Pentathlon GB series.

And back in July, Lydia and her grandfather competed in the British Biathle* Championships at Salford Quays. Whilst Lydia finished sixth, and as a result is first reserve for the British Pentathlon squad heading to Madeira this October for the World Championships, grandfather Tony claimed silver in the Masters class.

As a member of the Ashville boarding community, Lydia is supported by the College’s PE department and boarding staff to fulfil her demanding weekly sporting commitments, ensuring she can continue to participate in local, regional and national competitions.

In addition to laser runs and biathles, Lydia competes in cross country, fencing and show jumping competitions.

Jane Ellis, Ashville’s Head of Lower School, said: “Lydia has her sights firmly set on competing in a future Olympic Games, and there is nothing that could stop her achieving this ambition.

“We are incredibly proud of Lydia. She is a truly remarkable young athlete and we are wishing her, and her Pentathlon GB squad teammates, the best of luck in this week’s competition.”