The triathlon, a gruelling combination of swimming, cycling and running, is one of the most challenging endurance events in the world, and Gavin’s rewards have come after years of dedication and hard work. Thanks in part to a National Lottery grant, he has been able to become a full time athlete following his graduation from a Marketing and Sports Science degree at Stirling University last May, and he now spends a considerable amount of time competing and training in Europe.

    He recently completed a training period in Spain with the Scottish Elite squad, and after a short break in his native county, he has now returned to mainland Europe to prepare for the upcoming championships. “I have already spent seven weeks in Spain at the start of this year preparing for the season,” said Gavin, “but my selection now gives me a definite focus this time around.”

    His selection has come through a series of high-ranking finishes last season, which saw Gavin top the rankings list for the Elite men in Ireland. After his University graduation he based himself in Stirling, and spent the summer months in a training camp in Strasbourg. His competitive outings took him throughout Europe, including visits to Bulgaria and Germany, and it was in Germany that he sealed his number one ranking after an outstanding finish.

    Back at home, one of his main supporters is father Tom, who is principal of the Erne Integrated College. He has seen his son’s determination at first hand and witnessed the lengths Gavin has had to go to in his bid to reach the top of his sport. “He goes through running shoes like others go through bags of crisps,” says Tom. “When he is injury free and fully fit he will run 100 miles a week, his stints on the bicycle are about 60 miles each, and then he has the swimming as well.”

    It is a remarkable feat of stamina and endurance but it is one that takes its toll on the human body, and Gavin knows that one of the major obstacles to success is keeping the body relatively free of injury. “Keeping fit is a major target for him,” revealed his father. “He competed on the European circuit last year and at a time was carrying a suspected stress fracture of the spine, but luckily it proved to be not that serious. Recently he had a small Achilles injury, but it’s not too serious.”

    “I know I’m his father, but competing in the championships is a big achievement for a 22 year old. It’s an endurance event and most of the top guys are all 27 or 28 years of age. If he can stay injury free he is aiming for a place in the top fifteen in the world. That’s his target, but it’s a mighty tough call.”