Medal tally surpasses Beijing

Another successful day has been had by Team GB, with two gold’s in the velodrome, gold in the triathlon and gold for the dressage team. This brings the total gold medal tally to 22 surpassing the 19 won in Beijing, making this the most successful Olympics for Team GB in 104 years.

Starting off the medal haul today was Alistair Brownlee taking gold in the triathlon, the first medal Team GB has won in this event. Brownlee was closely followed by his younger brother Jonny who finished in bronze medal position. The sport made its debut on the Olympic programme in the Sydney Games in 2000 and has turned into one of the most high profile sports in the competition with thousands of people lining the streets of London to catch a glimpse of the action. British Triathlon has been working hard to increase participation in this sport and have launched Triathlon Live which introduces clubs and newcomers to the sport at Live Sites around the UK. In order to spark interest in the sport each participant will take part in a triathlon activity in an endless pool, static bike and treadmill.

Today also saw the finale of the cycling and the medals kept coming, with Sir Chris Hoy becoming the most decorated British Olympian of all time with six gold medals. Joining him on the medal podium was Laura Trott taking gold in the women’s omnium and Victoria Pendleton ending her career on a high with a silver medal in the women’s sprint. The velodrome, which has received £10.5million in investment from Sport England, has been the home of seven gold medals one silver and one bronze medal for Team GB and will provide a lasting legacy for those who will train at the venue post games. After the games, a road circuit and off-road trail will be added to the existing facilities, creating a centre for all types and levels of cycling from local recreational cyclists through to elite.

Not to be forgotten is the gold medal won by Charlotte Dujardin, Laura Bechtolsheimer and Carl Heser in the Team Dressage event- the first time Team GB has ever won this event.  Equestrian venues have been packed throughout events showing widespread interest in this sport. In order to increase participation, a nationwide a tour called Take up the Reins, which is being organised by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) is taking place at various venues throughout the country to spread the word that no matter what age or experience riding is a healthy activity accessible and enjoyable to all.

With five days to go - how many more medals can Team GB win?!