Anneliese Heard (Triathlon)

To the majority of us, the prospect of a 1500m swim, followed by a 40km bike ride and a 10km run is far from appealing. Anneliese Heard has however made the triple torture of the triathlon into her career and is making a stand on the world stage. The 23-year-old had her first taste of triathlon at the age of eight when she entered the Cannock chase in the under nine category and won. Four years later and the twelve-year-old was crowned British Juvenile Champion.

The titles have come thick and fast ever since including outstanding World Junior Championship titles in 1999 and 2000. The Newport girl’s triathlon triumphs earned her a Commonwealth Games debut in Manchester in 2002 where she finished in 9th position.

Anneliese was a member of the Welsh team in Melbourne, Australia.