TRIATHLETE Stevie Potter, 31, from the Blackdown Hills near Taunton, is celebrating a top 10 finish at the 2021 European Sprint Distance Triathlon Championships in Valencia.

Stevie, who is also a part-time dentist, has been training 12 hours a week for six months ahead of the gruelling European competition.

Competitors took on a 750m swim, a 20km bike ride and a 5km run and to top it off it was all done in 33-degree heat.

“I’m delighted with my achievement at the European Sprint Distance Triathlon Championships," Stevie said when speaking of her success in Valencia.

"For me, the training and participating in competitions like these really help with my own well-being and it also helps me to get ahead in my career as a dentist.”

Somerset County Gazette: Stevie during the runStevie during the run

Stevie Potter is not just one of the UK’s top triathletes, she also finds time outside of her intensive training schedule to work as a part-time Bupa Dental Care dentist.

She has also launched her own business, The Wonder Clinic which is aiming to empower people to look, feel and perform like the leaders the world needs them to be.

“I couldn’t have achieved what I have as a triathlete and in my career as a dentist without the support of my team at Bupa."

"They have given me the flexibility and support that has enabled me to follow my dreams as a triathlete, to continue and thrive in my career as a dentist, and to launch my new business." Stevie said.

Hannah Nicholls, practice manager at Bupa Dental Care Taunton, said the whole team is proud of Stevie.

“She really is incredible, and she is a testament that, if you put your mind to it, anything is possible."

"We are all so proud of her and her achievements in Valencia,” Nicholls said.

Following her European success, Stevie has also qualified for the World Triathlon Sprint Championships, the highest level possible for an amateur athlete.

The Championships will be held next year in Montreal.