Triathlon Star Neil Eddy Aims for Gold with Support from GSF

Photo: Triathlete Neil Eddy receives his GSF award from James Curry, GLL’s Head of Service in Cornwall

Penzance-based triathlete Neil Eddy, 37, a former long distance world champion, is intensifying his training in preparation for the upcoming Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Eddy, who previously secured a silver medal in the 2019 event with an impressive time of 8:49:49, is now eyeing the gold medal.

Eddy’s recent achievements include winning the age group title at the Challenge Championships in Samorin, Slovakia, in 2023. Additionally, he finished second in both the Half Ironman World Championships in Finland and the Barcelona Ironman. These successes are a clear testament to his dedication and skill in the sport.

Central to Eddy’s rigorous training regime is access to quality training facilities. He has expressed gratitude for the support received from the GLL Sports Foundation (GSF) over the past four years. GSF, an initiative of GLL, a not-for-profit social enterprise and workers’ cooperative, has been instrumental in providing access to 240 leisure centres across the UK, including nine in Cornwall. Since its inception in 2008, GSF has awarded nearly 26,000 grants, totalling over £14 million, to support athletes like Eddy.

In 2022, Neil Eddy was one of 84 Cornwall-based athletes who benefitted from the GSF scheme. He highlighted the importance of this support, stating, “Getting a GLL award means it’s easy to access a leisure centre anywhere in the UK and train for free.” Balancing a 16-20 hour weekly training schedule with a day job, Eddy emphasised the critical role of gym and swimming pool access in maintaining his peak fitness level.

Despite a challenging setback in 2023, when a sickness bug struck just days before the Kona World Championship, Eddy’s resilience and training helped him complete the race. Although he missed a podium finish, the experience has fueled his determination to clinch the gold medal this year.

“The GSF award is invaluable, and I will definitely be applying again this year,” Eddy affirmed.

GSF is currently accepting applications for 2024, with the application window open from 20 December 2023 until 20 February. Athletes seeking support can find more information at www.gllsportfoundation.org.