A young athlete from the Isle of Wight is raising funds to fulfil her dream to represent Great Britain in the Sprint Triathlon World Championships this summer.
20-year-old Millie Williams was given the opportunity to compete in Canada in June, but the chance comes with no financial support – meaning Millie must fund the trip herself.
Millie has so far raised £2,300 via a Go Fund Me page, while The Garlic Farm – where Millie works when she’s not training – is also supporting the cause by holding a fundraising quiz at its Newchurch restaurant in March.
Millie said:
"In 2020, I achieved the qualifying time needed for the 2022 Island Games, however, the Games were sadly cancelled due to the Coronavirus-19 pandemic. In 2021 my coach suggested an attempt be made to try and qualify for the 2022 ITU World Sprint Championships. The qualifying event was held at Dorney Lake, the rowing venue for the London 2012 Olympics. A top four finish within age group was needed and despite the high level of competition from across the country, I successfully qualified in 1st place.
"I need your help if I am to make the start line in Canada this June. Any offer of support, whether personal or from the business sector will be massively appreciated!
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart."
Millie started triathlon four years ago, as a natural progression to representing the Isle of Wight Athletics Club, competing in both cross country and track events.
The Isle of Wight Triathlon club have since supported her with targeted training to improve her endurance, technique, nutrition and mental strength.
The Garlic Farm said:
“We are very proud to have this incredible young woman working with us at The Garlic Farm.
“She's been selected to represent Great Britain at the Sprint Triathlon World Championships in Canada this June. She is completely self-funded so we are helping her to raise funds for this huge opportunity.
"If you would like to support this committed young Isle of Wight athlete, please read Millie's full story and join us in donating to her fundraising efforts via this link: https://gofund.me/e9cc7e0d
"You can also book in for our Fundraising Quiz night for Millie at The Garlic Farm Restaurant on 5th March from 6pm. www.dishcult.com/restaurant/thegarlicfarmrestaurant
"Go Millie!!”