British Paralympic star Lauren Steadman says she is “devastated” at being overlooked for a spot in Saturday’s Paralympic Test Event in Paris.
The 30-year-old is the reigning Paralympic champion in the PS5 category after that epic victory over American star Grace Norman in Tokyo in the summer of 2021. She has been unable though to gain automatic qualification for the showdown in the French capital for multiple reasons – including the recent Swansea event being converted to an Aquathlon and carrying less points as a result.
Lauren says that left a decision on whether she received an invitational slot with World Triathlon – a slot she was not offered.
She opened up on her disappointment in an Instagram post early on Friday – just 24 hours out from Saturday’s race.
Lauren Steadman on Paris snub
“I have always raced at the Paralympic Test event, I won both Rio and Tokyo… 🇧🇷 🇯🇵,” she said.
“I’m absolutely gutted to say I haven’t been offered a place to race at the Paris Test Event this Saturday 🇫🇷 To not be racing and representing @paralympicsgb_official a team whom I have successfully represented since 2011, is truly devastating.”
Lauren explained the reasons for her failing to gain automatic qualification, and her subsequent snub for an invitational spot.
“Unfortunately, with limited opportunities to rebuild my ranking on my return, and changes out of my control this didn’t allow for automatic qualification to the Paris Test event.
“This ultimately meant that the decision for an invitational slot was left to @worldtriathlon … they have not offered me this opportunity.
“I am extremely disappointed not to have been selected as the current Paralympic Champion for such a key race in terms of preparation for 2024 as well as a chance missed to automatically qualify for the Paralympic Games.
“I will be in Paris🗼this weekend supporting @brittri and my teammates, a chance to observe the course, ready to return next year 👊🏼
“Thank you for everyone’s support and to my sponsors – this journey would be impossible without you.”
Also on the sidelines in Paris as it stands is American star Allysa Seely – the PTS2 Paralympic champion explained her situation in an Instagram video.
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