Congratulations to Coach Nick Leclair for being accepted for the Talented Sports Performer Program scholarship at the University of Brighton.
He is training to compete in the BUCS (British University & Colleges Sport) Duathlon Championships on April 11th, which is a 2-mile run/10-mile bike/ 2-mile run event.
Nick is in his first year studying physiotherapy. He applied for the scholarship at the beginning of his academic year but was initially turned down due to cuts in funding as a result of the pandemic. He was kept on a ‘wait list’ that gave him access to the webinars offered by the program, and this is where Nick turned rejection into an opportunity.
“By continuing to participate and show the leader of the program who I am, he got to know me on a personal level”, says Nick. “In demonstrating what I bring to the sport, he saw my application in a different light and realized that this is the kind of athlete they want as an ambassador.”
In December, the program leader reached out and initiated the acceptance process again, and Nick was invited to join in time to participate in this season’s race series.
“It’s hard to be rejected and see that as a positive”, Nick says, “but I’ve learned that you have to take it as a learning experience and look for a way forward.”
In Nick’s case, continuing to show up and be himself earned him a second look.
The shortened race season in the BUCS program means Nick will have a sprint and Olympic distance triathlon to compete in before the academic year is over. He plans on showing up for his second year ready to continue in the program.
One of the important benefits of the scholarship program is counselling to help athletes maintain a balance between the pressures of competing and performing, and the demands of academic life, which has proven to be particularly valuable while being locked down on campus.
Through the scholarship, Nick has access to training and testing facilities on campus and support for physio and chiropractic services. He plans to take advantage of whatever he can, except for the services of coaching from them.
“Since I started working with Cindy, I’ve seen a lot of growth in my performance, and I really value our relationship. I’m not going to fix what’s not broken!” he laughs.
Race information and results can be found here.
