Raising funds to compete at the World Championships

Hello, my name is Bella Whitelaw. I’m 11 years old and I’m from Wellington,Somerset.

I am trying to raise funds to support my travel and competition fee’s to the World Biathle/Triathle World Championships. The competition runs between the 10th to the 13th of October 2024 in Port Fuad, Egypt and I have qualified to compete for Great Britain (under 13 female).

For those who have not heard of Triathle it forms part of Modern Pentathlon which is a multi sport event. It involves a continuous run, laser pistol shoot and swim over various distances.

Biathle is a continuous run and swim.

In April 2022 I competed in the National Biathle Championships, also a qualifier for the European Championships in Greece. Although I obtained the qualifying time I missed out on selection and was reserve.

However in July 2022 I attended the Biathle world qualifier in Salford and won gold which gave me instant qualification to the World Championships in Machico Bay, Portugal in October 2022. In the team relay with my partner, we secured Bronze for Great Britain. I was absolutely thrilled and honoured to have had the opportunity to compete.

Unfortunately in 2023 I suffered with ‘severs disease’ and it was too painful to run and, at times, walk. This was a big set back for me and suddenly I was way behind most of the girls in my age group.

I have managed to start running again but my biggest passion is swimming, CrossFit and karate which have been a huge help building my strength and confidence.

I would love to compete for Great Britain this October but I cannot do this without financial support.

I promise to do my very best and will post updates on my training and the competition.

If you are able to donate I would be eternally grateful.

Any funds raised will pay towards my flight, accommodation, GB kit, and entry fees. If more money is raised than what I need, I shall donate to a local charity to help promote sport amongst the community.

I am planning to compete at some open water swim events to raise funds so will keep you posted.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.