A leading sports orthopaedic consultant from Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital has qualified for the finals of the UCI Grand Fondo World Cycling Championships that take place in Albi, France on August 24 to 27.
Avid cyclist Mr Charles Willis-Owen will take part in the World Cycling Championships after qualifying in the top 25 per cent in his age group at a preliminary race in Cambridgeshire, earlier this month. Charles has been cycling since attending Oxford University in 1997, where he competed in his first race.
Mr Charles Willis-Owen said: “I’m delighted to have qualified for the UCI Grand Fondo World Championships. I have had a lot of support from my amazing family who put up with my training and cheer me on at races. I am really pleased to have done their unwavering support justice.
Charles added: “I love all sports; I think that’s why I enjoy my work as a sports surgeon so much. I have rowed and run marathons at an elite level in the past as well competing in a triathlon, and all forms of bike racing. I love winter sports and motor sport too but don’t have the budget for it.”
As well as being a full-time sports orthopaedic consultant and looking after his young family, Charles will need to train harder to compete to a good standard in August.
Charles said: “The final is a very hilly course so power to weight ratio is critical. I will be looking to increase my power and lose weight at the same time. Careful nutrition and good sleep hygiene will be really important.
“My sport and my work are closely linked and I think the high level competition allows me to serve my patients better.”
If you would like to make an appointment with Mr. Charles Willis-Owen at Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital call customer services on: 01202 375032.