The RAF offers many opportunities for personnel, civil servants, and contractors to get involved in sports. Whether it be as a hobby, for maintaining fitness and optimal performance, or even playing for their country as a Professional Elite Athlete.
Senior Aircraftman Luke Pollard’s journey when he joined the RAF in January 2011 as a Supplier. Arriving at his first posting at RAF Benson, Luke decided the best way to meet new people was through sport. Little did he know that this first step on his journey would lead to him becoming an elite para-triathlete guide and representing Great Britain on the highest of athletic stages.
Already a keen athlete, Luke signed up to a Station club to develop his passion and meet a few like-minded individuals on the base. Running turned to cycling, then to triathlon, and before long Luke became fully involved in Station sports.
Luke focused his training to excel at Service and Association level triathlon while representing the RAF. He then started racing elite level in 2015 and within three years, Luke won his first Inter-Services competition and ignited his pursuit to elite level. Luke has now gone on to win a total of 10 Inter-Service titles in triathlon, duathlon, and time trialling.
In 2019, Luke was selected by British Triathlon to represent his country as a guide for Visually Impaired Triathlete three times world champion David Ellis, aged 35, from Heanor.
Training alongside globally renowned athletes, Luke developed his resilience and grew physically and mentally stronger. His diligence to push himself to the limits of endurance also developed David’s abilities; a true example of how sport can build stronger RAF personnel and inspire others.
Luke still has a fulfilling career in the military and triathlon ahead, and he will continue to proudly wear his RAF colours in world competitions. Luke and David Ellis competed in the 2020 Paralympic games, Tokyo on 28th August.
I'm always proud to represent the RAF, as all of this wouldn't have been possible without them. Being selected for the Paralympics GB team to guide at the pinnacle of the sport is something I never thought possible and it's a true honour so wear the kit.
Senior Aircraftman Luke Pollard
The pair fought through the opening swim, before David's bike chain unfortunately broke. They decided to pull out from the race, as they had fallen too far behind by the time the chain was repaired and it was fruitless to continue. Luke and David can now focus their efforts on preparing for the European Championships in Valencia next month.