Athlete’sAsda aid

Cliona Ferguson (16), from Craigmarloch, has been swimming, running and cycling her way to the top of UK athletics as a junior triathlon athlete for four years and has been backed by Asda after receiving £500 in sponsorship from the supermarket giant. The cash comes as part of their Asda Sports Programme.

Cliona said: “I was jumping about the house when I found out I got the award, it was great.

“I received backing from the scheme last year as well and the money has allowed me to buy a new bike, which has made life a lot easier. For the cycling section of the sport you do need a good road bike and thankfully I’ve got one now.

“It also means that I’m not going to my mum and dad all the time and I can buy the equipment I need myself.”

The Asda Sports Programme sees every Asda store in the UK paired with a young athlete who receives a £500 grant and the opportunity to raise more through working with their partner store.

Cliona’s next race is at Strathclyde Park on Sunday, May 22 against some tough competition from England and Europe.

An Asda spokesperson said: “We will be following Cliona’s progress as a triathlete with great interest and wish her all the best for the forth coming season.”

You can follow Cliona’s progress at www.asda-athletes.co.uk/clionaferguson.