A SWAMP WEED scare failed to deter brave silver medal winner Gwen Kinsey at the Chateau de Chantilly Triathlon in France.

After getting caught up in it, Kinsey had to use all her strength to break free from the weed.

“It’s the first triathlon during which I have had to breaststroke my way out of trouble and it was not a fun experience,” said Gwen.

Despite this, she finished the swim in third and was delighted to improve one place after 3km on the bike (normally her weakest part of the race).

Competing in the Olympic distance (1500m swim, 47km bike, 10km run) Gwen had to battle for space in much of the first lap of the swim.

A solid bike ride enabled Gwen to put more distance between her and the third athlete coming into transition. Then one of her bike shoes fell off the cleat causing a slower transition than usual.

Putting that to the back of her mind, she focused on maintaining rhythm and posted the fastest female run time.

This is Gwen’s second podium finish in a Castle Triathlon race this year, with the final one of the series to be held at Hever Castle next month.

Gwen is generously supported by local businesses 5 Valleys Physiotherapy, Gyles Allen hairdressers and in particular The Bike Works who source and service her bikes.

Coached by Chris Frapwell of Stroud Athletics club, Gwen is one of a growing number of successful multi-discipline athletes in the Stroud area.

Meanwhile, Gwen finished second in the Cotswold Triathlon (elite race) on Sunday, beating her personal best on the bike.

“I’m delighted,” said Gwen. “The only lady to beat me has qualified for the Commonwealth Games. I smashed my bike personal best and was the fastest runner.”