Blackpool Wyre and Fylde athlete Steve Mason, produced a superb performance at the World Biathle Championships in Monaco to return with a bronze medal.

Sixteen-year-old Steven was competing against athletes up to two years older than himself, in the Youth "A" section of the event which comprised of a 1500 metre run followed by a 200 metre swim and a further 1500 metre run to finish with.

Looking relaxed and confident, Steven used his strong endurance training to excellent effect on the first run stage, hitting the front and building up a 50 metre lead over the rest of the field at the transition.

The 200 metre swim made full use of the Monaco beach which meant battling strong incoming winds and large waves, as well as trying to avoid the feet and arms of fellow athletes.

At the end of the swim, Steven was back in 5th place after being kicked on the head a couple of times.

The two leading South African athletes worked well together on the second run stage and gradually established an unassailable lead. However, Steven continued to work hard and managed to get himself back into third position, holding off a strong French challenge to secure the Bronze medal.

A delighted Steven said after the race. "That was hard work. I felt good on the first run and just went for it!

"The waves in the swim were very strong, so it was hard to see and I got kicked a couple of times.

"However, I just kept working hard on the second run and I'm pleased to win the Bronze Medal."