LOCAL triathlon coach and personal trainer, Paul Ryman, has been crowned world champion at the ITU Sprint Triathlon World Championships in Switzerland.
Competing for Team GB, Paul came first in the 35-39 age group, securing the world champion title that he has been chasing for seven years. He previously won a silver medal at the championship held in Canada 2014; and bronze medals at championships held in New Zealand 2012; London 2013; Chicago 2015; and Rotterdam 2017.
The warm waters at Lake Geneva saw the first discipline as a non-wetsuit 750m swim. Paul had a solid start exiting the water in 9th. The 20km bike course suited the Somerset athlete with its steep ascents and technical turns, where he returned to transition in the lead. The run was hot and hilly but Paul was able to hold on to 1st place with a minute lead on 2nd place, crossing the finish line as 2019 35-39 age group world champion.
“This is a dream come true,” said Paul. “It has been quite a journey, I’ve travelled the world, met some great athletes and had a lot of support over the years that I’m very grateful for. Now it’s time to sit and reflect and decide on my next goal.”
