The 20-year-old took part in the Windsor Elite Triathlon in England, which included a 1500m swim, 42km bike and 10km run.

Michael said he enjoyed rubbing shoulders with some of the major stars from the world of triathlon.

He said: "The start line included two athletes from past Senior World Championships, the former British 3000m running champion, two ex professional cyclists, Commonwealth Games athletes as well as an athlete from the 2004 Athens Olympics.

"I was excited going into the race and wanted to mix it up as much as possible with the big guys of the sport."

Michael, a swimming specialist, took the lead in the water after 600m before managing to remain with the leading pack throughout the 42km bike ride. He was in 14th place by the start of the 10km run and managed to hang on for a very respectable 15th place finish with a time of one hour 58 minutes and 30 seconds.

The triathlete said his initial aim was just to finish the race and was delighted with how well he competed.

He said: "To finish in 15th place was way above my expectations and those of anyone else, especially as it was my first major Olympic distance elite race against some of the best guys out there. I trained really hard over the winter in Vancouver and I knew at the time that it would make a difference but you don't really believe it until it all comes together on a race day!"

If you would like to see Michael in action highlights of the Windsor Elite Triathlon will be shown on Channel 4 at 8am on Sunday, July 5.