Lecturer wins bronze in gruelling 24 hour international competition

A Teesside University lecturer has been on the fast lane to glory, earning a bronze medal in an international 24 hour bike championships in New Zealand.

Jason Hynd, Senior Lecturer in Sports Therapy, took part in the World 24 hour solo mountain biking championship last month, where he rode a total of 391km on his way to a third place finish in the 45-49 age group.

The event saw Jason complete 23 laps of a 17km course, finishing the competition with a time of 24 hours 54 minutes and 56 seconds.

Jason was thrilled to do so well and was grateful of the support from his family and friends.

He said: 'The event was a new challenge - overcoming jetlag, 30 degree heat, 90% humidity and avoiding possums during the night rides.

'It was a fantastic experience and would not have been possible without the support of my colleagues within the sports and exercise team, my family - particularly my brother on pit support - and sponsors MTB Guisborough, Bikescene and Altura.'

Jason has been competing in cycling disciplines over the past 20 years, taking part in a number of national and international competitions.

He won silverware at the World 24 hour solo championship before, winning a bronze medal in 2014.

His other riding accomplishments include winning a silver medal in the European 24 hour solo MTB championship in 2012 and a bronze medal in the UK 24 hour solo MTB championships in October 2015.

Jason also has a keen interest in sports therapy and cycling science, with his research being assisted with his time working in higher education.

He graduated from Teesside University in 2006 with a first class BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy.

As well as being a Senior Lecturer, he also treats athletes at the Teesside Sports Injury Clinic, based at the University.

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