A COLLEGE student has continued to compete on the world stage despite Covid-19 restrictions.

First year, Barton Peveril Sixth Form College student, Madeline Cooper is a British Triathlete.

Whilst most people spent their year at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, Madeline participated in four training days with British Triathlon, as well as travelling to the Czech Republic to represent the Great Britain Cycling Team.

The former Wildern School pupil competed at the World Cup Cyclo-cross race in Tabor, Czech Republic between November 26-30.

Cyclo-cross is a form of bicycle racing consisting of many laps of a short course featuring pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount, carry the bike while navigating the obstruction and remount.

Madeline placed 20th in a "highly competitive" field, at the race, whilst following stringent Covid-19 safety measures.

She said: “It was a very high standard; a race that was fast and furious from the start to the end, but a great experience nonetheless.

"I want to keep pushing, keep improving and to be able to improve my positioning in any future races or competitions that I am selected for.

"It was a fantastic experience and I am looking forward to the World Championships if it gets the go ahead.”

The student was also selected to represent the Great Britain Cycling Team in the European Championships, but these were subsequently cancelled due to travel restrictions.

Barton Peveril Teacher of Sport Alix Christopher, said: “Madeline has continued to train and compete at such a high standard despite the difficulties this year has thrown her way and we cannot wait to see what she achieves next!”