A YOUNG Thirsk athlete has confirmed his potential as a possible Olympic star of the future by winning the London Triathlon sprint title.

Joseph Rafferty returned from competing at the European age group championships in Bucharest to be one of 3,500 athletes of all ages taking part in the prestigious London event.

The 15-year-old produced a remarkable display to take first place in the sprint distance of 750m swim, 20k cycle and 5k run. The Olympic distance of 1500m swim, 40k cycle and 10k run was won by British international star Simon Lessing.

Starting from Royal Albert Docks at 7am, Joseph emerged from the water in third place. After a fast transition from wetsuit to cycle kit, he gained another place before recording a personal best run to storm home 32 seconds ahead of the next competitor. His official time was one hour, seven minutes, two seconds.

The talented Thirsk School pupil has been earmarked as a future Olympian in the fast-growing sport. He trains at Loughborough University during the school holidays and trains regularly with the Thirsk White Horse swimming club, the Cleveland Wheelers and Mandale Harriers