We’re incredibly proud to share that Katie Walker, based in our Helston office, has been crowned the overall female winner at Ironman 70.3 Bolton, one of the UK’s most competitive triathlon events. Katie went into the race with one goal: to win her age group and secure a place at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships. She exceeded every expectation by not only qualifying but crossing the finish line first out of all female competitors.
“I finished 1st overall female at Ironman 70.3 Bolton,” Katie said. “I went with the hope to finish first in my age group to get a world championships spot and didn’t expect to come away with the overall win. It was an amazing feeling taking the tape and a bit surreal seeing my face on Ironman UK social media!”
This win means Katie has officially qualified for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships, taking place in Marbella, Spain on 8 and 9 November 2025, a major step in her already fast moving triathlon journey.
What makes Katie’s success even more impressive is the balance she maintains alongside her professional life. She trains around a full time role at bk plus, often starting her days before many people are even awake. “I get up at 5:30am and usually start training by 6 or 6:30,” she explains. “I swim three mornings a week, run with my club on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and fit in long rides on Sundays. Most days I’m training morning and evening.”
This intense schedule is underpinned by structure, organisation and pure determination. “Last year I was studying for my AAT while training for the British Champs. Now I’m thinking about starting my ACA or ACCA. That’ll be the next challenge, juggling professional qualifications, triathlon training and a full time job.”
Katie re entered the triathlon world during the pandemic after competing as a junior athlete years before. “I picked up running again during COVID. My dad’s a cyclist and I’ve always been a swimmer, so it just made sense to go back into triathlon. I’ve always been competitive and it’s amazing to be back racing.”
While her achievements speak volumes, Katie is quick to credit the support around her as a key part of her success. “I now split my time between Helston and Penzance. That’s helped massively, less time commuting, more time to train and recover. Everyone at work has been really supportive. It’s made a big difference.”
She also trains with the MK Endurance Squad and works closely with her coach to keep pushing her limits. Her European debut earlier this year saw her finish as the first non elite female at the European Middle Distance Championships in Pamplona, placing 9th overall, even ahead of some elites. With her qualification for Marbella now secured, her sights are firmly set on what comes next.
“My long term goal is to get my professional licence. I’ve only done three middle distance triathlons so far, so I’m still learning. But now I know I can place ahead of the age groupers and even some elites, it’s definitely in sight.”
From early starts and relentless training blocks to balancing work and exams, Katie’s story is one of resilience, ambition and genuine passion. Her win in Bolton is not just a result, it’s a reflection of everything she’s put in behind the scenes.
Congratulations to Katie on an extraordinary achievement. We’ll be backing her all the way as she prepares for the World Championships in Marbella later this year.