David Smith to take on the world in duathlon

David Smith says he can't wait for a crack at this weekend's Duathlon World Championships in Spain having qualified for the competition almost three months ago.

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Smith, 50, a member of Edinburgh#3 Triathlon Club, will represent Great Britain in the 50-55 year age group category that will see the athletes contest a 10km run followed by a 42km bike ride before a final run of 5km takes them across the finishing line in Aviles, north west Spain.

Sunday’s race is Smith’s debut at a World Championships event but he is eager to get going.

“It’s been pretty tough to get there and a long time to wait. I qualified back in March so I’m looking forward to getting out there and having a good go at it,” he said. “I haven’t really set myself any targets but I’ll give it everything I possibly can. There will be some exceptional guys out there ability-wise but I have gone through a major bike upgrade for this one. The proof will be in the pudding, I suppose.

“With me having just entered the 50-55 age group, that was one of the reasons why I was so keen to have a go at it as I’ll be one of the youngest. I’m really excited to be part of it all but I’m sure the nerves will kick in during the morning. It’s going to be pretty hot out there so I’m sure that will play a part. Plenty of fluids will be needed – that’s for sure!”