FROM sprinting at the Kassam Stadium to taking chances for the U’s, Oxford United midfielder Nicky Wroe is gearing up for one of this summers’ biggest challenges.

The 28-year-old will be taking his training up to the next level for June’s Blenheim Palace Triathlon.

Joined by the team’s head of sport science, Alasdair Lane, Mr Wroe will take part in the individual sprint.

The midfielder hopes he has what it takes to complete the challenging course.

Mr Wroe said: “I competed in a little triathlon a couple of years ago which I enjoyed, but I have never trained specifically for a race so will be looking to get advice from Alasdair. “The Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research Blenheim Palace Triathlon seemed like the perfect goal.”

This year’s individual sprint at Blenheim Palace will be made up of a 750m swim, a 19.8km bike ride and a 5.7km run.

Mr Wroe is stepping up training and hopes for a good finish against the experienced triathlon coach. He said: “I am also a keen cyclist and like to swim, especially during the off-season as I find both disciplines help to give the joints a little rest while staying relatively fit.

“I have a good fitness base with my football but will look to get some miles in on the bike and plenty of laps in the pool where I can.”

Mr Lane has completed more than 10 triathlons in six years and feels the pressure of taking on a team member. He said: “As a qualified triathlon coach I’m feeling a little pressure to finish ahead of Nicky, so it’s set to be another competitive day for the U’s.”

The pair will join footballers Holly Pickett and Amy Chivers of Oxford United’s women’s team who will be in the club’s triathlon relay team.