Sir Tom Finney’s great nephew to represent Team GB in 2024

Sir Tom Finney’s great nephew is set to represent Team GB in 2024.

Jake Higham has been selected to represent The Great Britain Age Group Team in the Standard Distance Duathlon World Championships held in Australia.

He has only been competing in the sport for a year but has managed to find his talent for running.

Currently working at Preston College as a Student Manager, Jake has also competed in his very first triathlon and has since competed in five triathlons, two duathlons and long-distance running events.

Jake said: “From having no idea what to expect on my first race two years ago, where I even had to borrow my uncle’s 10 year old cycling shoes and my dad’s rusty bike, I am thrilled to say that I have successfully managed to qualify for this duathlon after competing in a competitive race in this June.

“It was crazy, I was racing against current and aspiring Great British athletes, however I was lucky enough to place in the top 4 of the event, meaning I have secured a qualifying spot and a chance to represent my country in Australia in 2024.

“This is by far my greatest achievement, and something which myself and my family are extremely proud of. I have always dreamt of representing my country at a sporting level and whilst this was not possible during my footballing days, I’ve been given an opportunity to do so through duathlon.”

No funding is available from the Government Body unless you are an elite athlete, which means that Jake’s trip has to be funded directly through the athlete or with the help and support of sponsorships, funds and grants.

Jake has set up a GoFundMe page for those who want to donate.

Before finding running, Jake played football for academies such as Blackpool, Bolton and Fleetwood, whilst also representing Lancashire Schools and FA.

However, an early injury from a broken ankle when he was 17 meant that he had to make the difficult decision to move away from football and find a different sport.