With the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men having raced through Lincolnshire and Tour Your Lincolnshire inspiring people to get out and explore the county on two wheels, there’s never been a better time to celebrate local people who show just how far physical activity can take you.
For Tracey, Active Lincolnshire’s Community Connector for East Lindsey, a love of running, cycling and being active in her local community has led to an experience she never imagined: pulling on a Team GB vest and competing at the European Sprint Duathlon Championships in Spain.
And it all started with saying yes to a challenge.
Taking a chance
Tracey has always enjoyed keeping active, but her endurance sport journey really began when she took part in the Great North Run in 2002.
“I’ve always enjoyed exercise throughout my life, but everything really followed on from doing the Great North Run.”
A few years later, she completed her first triathlon and became part of the Wolds Breakfast Club, a local triathlon group. Many of the people she trained alongside had represented Great Britain, but Tracey never believed that level was within her reach.
Representing Team GB isn’t easy. Athletes must compete in qualifying events and finish high enough in their age group to earn selection. On top of that, competitors fund the entire journey themselves, including race entries, travel, accommodation and kit.
“It’s quite an expensive hobby. One of the barriers is definitely the cost because it’s all self-funded.”
Despite this, when friends began discussing plans to enter a qualifying race in Scotland, Tracey decided to take a chance.
“They were all saying they were going, so I thought I’d put my name in the hat too.”
That one decision changed everything.
A place on Team GB
The qualifying race took place at East Fortune Race Circuit in Scotland. Tracey arrived hoping to do her best, but without any real expectations.
Then came the surprise.
She qualified for Great Britain in her age group.
But the journey wasn’t over. Athletes don’t immediately know where they’ll be competing, and for Tracey there was a 16-month wait before her championship destination was confirmed.
“You have to keep yourself fit enough the whole time while waiting to find out where you’re going to race.”
Eventually, the news arrived. She would be heading to Banyoles, Spain.
Fitting training around everyday life
Preparing for an international championship while working full time takes dedication, planning and more than a few early mornings.
Most of Tracey’s training was completed around work commitments, often training solo and making the most of local facilities and clubs across East Lindsey.
From track sessions to circuit training, club runs and regular parkruns, her preparation was built around the opportunities available right on her doorstep.
“Most of the training was on my own, fitting everything around work.”
She is also quick to recognise the support she received along the way.
“My employers were really supportive and flexible, which allowed me to fit the training in.”
Alongside running and cycling, strength and conditioning became an important part of her routine as race day approached.
Wearing the GB vest
Arriving in Spain a few days before the event allowed Tracey time to adjust to the heat, although there wasn’t much downtime.
“We were too busy exploring!”
One of the standout moments came before the race had even begun. Athletes from across Europe gathered for the Parade of Nations, marching through the town centre as crowds lined the streets.
“It felt like the whole town had come out to support it.”
Despite travelling without knowing many people, Tracey quickly became part of a welcoming Team GB community. Athletes connected through WhatsApp groups before travelling, and friendships formed almost immediately.
“There was a really nice atmosphere and everyone was encouraging. I’d never met most of the people before but everyone was really helpful.”
When race day doesn’t go to plan
Like many endurance events, race day came with a few unexpected challenges.
The Spanish heat was relentless. Extra water stations were added to the course and competitors ran through sprinklers to keep cool.
Then there was the moment Tracey realised she had left her energy chews behind at the hotel.
“I forgot my Shot Bloks completely!”
A little later came more frustration, with confusing signage on part of the bike course and a wrong turn after returning to transition.
“An official made me go all the way around, which cost me quite a bit of time.”
Looking back now, she can laugh about it.
“You can still make silly mistakes. My brain was all over the place.”
But none of it took away from the achievement.
“I knew I wasn’t going there for a podium place. My aim was to enjoy the experience and finish.”
And that’s exactly what she did.
It’s never too late to try something new
Tracey’s story perfectly captures what Tour Your Lincolnshire is all about.
You don’t need to be an elite athlete to get started. Whether it’s exploring local cycling routes, joining a running group, taking part in parkrun, or simply being more active in your local area, small steps can lead to opportunities you never expected.
From local club sessions in Louth to representing Great Britain on the international stage, Tracey’s journey shows that it’s never too late to set a new goal, take on a fresh challenge, or discover what you’re capable of.
And is this the end of her Team GB story?
Not if she has anything to do with it.
“I’d like to try and qualify again.”
Knowing Tracey, we wouldn’t be surprised to see her wearing the GB vest again very soon.
