Triathlete Jon Worcester is training with the Scotland squad, just a few months after being spotted competing in his first ever race.

Worcester, who turned 18 in October, completed his first triathlon during the summer in London when he came 11th out of 800 entrants.

It was a staggering achievement for the youngster from Chichester, who attends Lancing College, and he now trains everyday in the hope of hitting the big time.

While his contemporaries at the prestigious independent school studied during half-term, Worcester was running, swimming and cycling around Stirling, north of the border.

He said: "I have always been a runner and was good at cross country. I'm also quite a solid swimmer so this summer I thought I'd have a go at a triathlon.

"I entered the London Triathlon and was really surprised how well I did. I thought I might as well keep going and my coach has given me a lot of encouragement after getting in touch following the race in London."

Worcester swims in the school's 25m indoor pool and runs and cycles to stay in shape.

His pals, who all play football, think the superfit teenager is mad.

Worcester said: "It's crazy but I've always done individual sports and I think I have a natural talent for it. My mates think I'm bonkers and call me the runner.

"I'm quite lazy normally but training has been going well. Sussex is a nice place to train. I'm fit compared with most people but I want to get fitter."

In his spare time, Worcester is preparing for A-Levels next summer. He hopes to get three Bs for Loughborough University to study sport and exercise science.

Loughborough's facilities are among the best in the country and Jon knows it would be the perfect place to continue his triathlon education.

He said: "I don't drink much and I don't intend to change when I get to university. If I keep on the straight and narrow then who knows what could happen?"

Worcester's dedication to the sport has impressed teachers.

Roland Miles said: "Everyone sees him running around the school but I don't think they are aware of what he has achieved in such a short time."

Triathlon became an Olympic sport in Sydney 2000. If Worcester continues his impressive progress then he could take full advantage of its new-found status.