Elgin couple Sophia Green and Cameron Main to represent Scotland in triathlon at the Commonwealth Games
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AN Elgin couple are set to live the dream together this summer after being selected to represent Scotland at the Commonwealth Games.
Cameron Main and Sophia Green, who now live and train together in Loughborough, will compete in both individual and relay events as part of the five-person triathlon team for the games, which are taking place in Birmingham this year from July 28 until August 8.
The pair were delighted to share the news – which they’d be fighting to hold in for two weeks – with friends and family on Wednesday.
“It’s been hard keeping it to myself and holding back the excitement,” Cameron said.
“It’s been a long-term goal of mine to make the Commonwealth Games. It’s the biggest stage for any Scot, representing your own country.
“I was 14 when I went to the games in Glasgow and that gave me an amazing insight and the dream goal of being one of those athletes.
“Here I am now with that opportunity. It’s amazing to be able to say that.”
Sophia, who was a reserve in Gold Coast in 2018, added: “It’s really exciting to let everybody know. Everybody is really excited and happy for me.
“In 2018, I saw what it was going to be like, soaked up the experience and hoped I’d be selected next time – so it’s nice to get the call up.”
Both were quick to thank Moray clubs for the part they’d played in their sporting journeys.
“Sophia and myself want to say a special thanks to Elgin Cycling Club, Moray Road Runners, Elgin Swimming Club, Moray Firth Triathlon Club and Focus Taekwondo,” Cameron said.
“These local clubs are the foundation and base of what we now are. They brought us up to be the sporting people we are today. Also, we have to thank friends and family for always being there, even when it’s been rough.
“Personally, my sister Abbie, who passed away due to cancer, is one of the main reasons I continue to train and push myself today.”
Cameron also talked up the motivation Sophia has provided him with – especially during lockdown.
“Sophia had a swimming pool set up and we did bike sessions in the garage,” he said.
“We did runs together and she was a massive motivation and really helped me get out of bed when not much was going on.”
Sophia added: “It’s always good to have someone close to you to train with.
“There are so many highs and lows in sport so it’s good to have someone with you.”
While the Commonwealth goal has been reached, Cameron was left with somewhat of a sweat on making the squad – with just three automatic spaces given to triathletes.
But a fourth spot was confirmed by Team Scotland, ensuring he’d join Sophia at the games. The fact the games are so close to home only makes it more special.
He added: “We are only live about 40 minutes from Sutton Park, so it almost feels like a home race. It’s still quite a drive from Elgin but family and friends can make the trip which is great.”
Cameron added a special mention to the Adam Family Foundation and The Mansefield Hotel for their continued support.