ALL Wendy Nicholls wants for Christmas is a new road racing bike.

The former GB international runner has made such a smooth transition to multi-sports events that she won the British Duathlon Championship at Emberton Country Park, Milton Keynes on Sunday.

Not just in her age-group (45-49 years) but the overall women’s race against much younger competitors – and by almost two minutes.

“And that was on a nine-year-old bike,” said Fairford-based Wendy, who has now qualified for the European Duathlon Championship next year.

“I was rubbish in the Ciren 10km the other day but a visit to my osteopath, Steve Haynes in Cirencester, put me right.

“I ran my quickest 10km in years (36.13) at Milton Keynes and I was also very pleased with my overall time of 2hr 10min 01sec. I enjoy it because I have found a sport where I can still be competitive.

“I had earmarked this event some months ago and I have really trained hard for it. I know the field was not too strong but it all went to plan and I felt so relaxed.

“When I came out of the transition after the 40km bike ride I knew no one was going to catch me on the final 5km run.

“I’m getting stronger on the bike and a new one would certainly help. I have started a bike fund and I certainly want one before the Europeans.”