COLCHESTER biathlete Georgia Tombs is hoping to enhance her flourishing reputation in the sport at this month’s European Biathle Championships.

The Colchester County High School for Girls Year 7 pupil travels to Portugal looking to add to the bronze she recently won for Great Britain at a World Tour event, in Italy.

She triumphed in the Youth D category, in Cascina.

Georgia said: “I really enjoyed the whole experience in Italy. I wanted to do my best and it was great to get a medal.

“The best part of the whole thing was being able to stand on the podium afterwards. I was very proud.”

Georgia, 11, helped win the overall team trophy for GB, whose team of 48 biathletes braved hot conditions in swimming and running events.

Georgia, who only competed in her first biathlon last October, was picked after clocking a World Tour qualifying time in finishing fourth at the South West Biathlon Championships, in Dorset.

The versatile athlete, who is a member of Chelmsford AC, had earlier won the Eastern Region Championships.

“I’ve only being doing the biathle for a little while,” said Georgia, who regularly competes in the 800m and 1,500m.

“My mum told me all about it and I thought that I’d give it a go.

“I’ve really enjoyed it so far and I’m surprised I’ve done so well so quickly!

“I think my running has helped me do well – I’d like to be a runner in the future.

Georgia has also been a regular performer for her school’s cross country team.

She has gone from strength to strength as the season has progressed, earning selection for the Essex team.

Georgia was also the county’s top-placed runner at the South East of England Inter Counties Cross Country event, finishing sixth overall.

She is now preparing to take part in the European Biathle Championships, which take place on July 17 and 18 in Portugal.

Georgia added: “I’m really looking forward to it – I’ve been to Portugal three times before but only on holiday, so it will be great to be there.

“I’ll be looking to do as well as I can and, hopefully, I can get another medal!”