EVESHAM’S Helen Russell won the World Quadrathlon Middle Distance Championship title in her age category.

Russell tackled a 1,500-metre river swim, seven-kilometre kayak, 38km bike section and 10km run against athletes from Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Spain and Ireland.

She emerged from the river swim in first place and then continued to lead until the finish, securing victory in the 40 to 50 year age category at the competition in Brigg, Lincolnshire.

Her time meant that not only did Russell win her age category but she was also second woman overall with only Becky Robertson from the elite category finishing quicker.

Russell, who is sponsored by the Rivers Evesham Gifted and Talented Scheme and was recently named Wychavon Sporting Hero, added the title to the sprint distance world title she won in Germany last season.

She said: “As this race was the first of the season it was difficult to know how I would fare against the other athletes.

“I haven’t had a great winter, struggling with some injuries, but I am relieved that I was able to get to the start line and win another word title.”

Russell will now focus on the British Trophy Series races and British Championship race later in the season.

Next on the endurance athlete’s race calendar is the Dearne Valley Quadrathlon in South Yorkshire in mid-June.