The 29-year-old optician will don her Great Britain vest in the ITU World Triathlon Championships after beating off stiff competition from across the country to win a place in the prestigious contest.

The gruelling event on Australia's Gold Coast next month will include a 1,500m swim in open water, a 40km bike ride and a 10km run.

Anna, of Ashbrooke, said: "I joined a running club a year ago on a whim and ended up competing in triathlon contests. I still can't believe I will be representing Britain in the world championships."

The former St Anthony's School pupil will be pitting her fitness against athletes from more than 42 countries.

She secured a place in the 25 to 29 age group category of the contest after qualifying at the Auto Glass Bedford Classic Triathlon last month, which was only her second Olympic distance race.

Anna has managed to achieve the fitness feat despite not having a coach.

"I used to be in Sunderland Harriers when I was younger," she said. "But I've not competed professionally for about 10 years. I now do some kind of training most days, whether it be running, cycling or swimming at the gym.

"I am a total amateur and I think it is quite unusual for people to get a place in the championship without any help, but I'm really looking forward to the challenge.

"I'm 29 now so I don't think I could do it professionally, but hopefully I can be a good age group competitor. Apparently it takes 10 years to reach your peak as a triathlete."

After next month's contest, Anna will be working towards qualifying for the 2010 European Championships in Ireland next July.


TRIATHLON FACTS

INVENTED in the early 1970s by the San Diego Track club as an alternative workout to the rigours of track training.

First event was a 10km run, an 8km cycle and a 500m swim.

Gained world recognition over the next decade.

Official distance is now a 1,500m swim, a 40km cycle and a 10km. In 1994 was awarded full medal status on the Olympic programme and made its debut at the 2000 summer Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia.