Paralympian Mel Nicholls has transformed from a swimmer fearful of open water to an accomplished triathlete competing worldwide. At 48, Nicholls, who previously competed as a wheelchair racer at the London 2012 Paralympics before transitioning to triathlon, recently spoke at British Triathlon’s “50 Days to Go” launch event for the upcoming World Triathlon Championship Series in London on July 25.
The event featured an open water swimming taster session with community groups BADU and STUK, reflecting British Triathlon’s ongoing commitment to increasing accessibility and encouraging participation in triathlon across London.
Nicholls shared her personal experience with the challenges of open water swimming. “I came into triathlon as a hand cyclist and wheelchair racer, but I didn’t see myself as a swimmer. Early on, I was so overwhelmed that I would cry into my goggles, doubting if I could do it. Now, I seize every opportunity to swim open water,” she revealed.
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She emphasized how triathlon not only offers enjoyment but also builds essential life skills like swimming, cycling, and running. British Triathlon’s community initiatives aim to grow a lasting triathlon culture in London by welcoming new participants into clubs and events. During the London T100 weekend, thousands of amateur triathletes will embark on various race distances.
Nicholls encourages newcomers to embrace their own journey without comparison. “Enjoy every moment, take a breath, and savor the experience. Triathlon may be an individual sport, but the community it nurtures is invaluable. Whether it’s sharing a coffee after warming up or encouraging each other to jump in the water, triathlon brings people together,” she said.
She adds, “Give it a go. It’s your moment, and you’ll never just do one triathlon—there’s always another.”
The London triathlon community is gearing up for a thrilling weekend of competition as the World Triathlon Championship Series returns to the city for the first time since 2015. Around 100 of the world’s top triathletes, including Olympic champion Alex Yee and reigning World Championship leader Beth Potter, will compete in fast-paced sprint races designed to excite spectators.
The races, based around ExCeL London in the Docklands, are free to watch. Nicholls hopes that witnessing the elite athletes in person will inspire more people to join local clubs and participate in future triathlon events.
“Many people know these athletes from TV or news coverage,” she said. “Seeing them compete live can motivate anyone to get involved in swimming, cycling, running, or triathlon itself.”