Wonder woman Willcocks is triathlon champion of the world

Michelle finished fully two-and-a-half minutes ahead of the runner-up at the championships in Rotterdam, completing the 1500m swim, 40km bike ride and 10km run in two hours, eight minutes and 51 seconds.

It was the 31-year-old’s fifth gold medal this year, following age-group titles in the European and national sprint triathlon championships, the national aquathon championships and the national standard distance triathlon championships. And she didn’t do too badly last year either, landing three golds and two silvers.

All this would be an incredible achievement in any normal circumstances but in 2011, Michelle had major abdominal surgery afer being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, which causes inflammation and ulcers in the bowel.

Undeterred, she has used her experience to renew her determination to succeed in sport and push herself even further.

Michelle is a member of Mansfield Triathlon Club and works as a diabetes specialist nutrition at King’s Mill Hospital in Sutton.