University of Stirling Sports scholar Tristen Bell won Silver in the men’s modern pentathlon relay at the Pan American Games.
Representing the United States, 22-year-old Tristen Bell from Tampa Bay, Florida, and his teammate 27-year-old Brendan Anderson put in great performances across the five sports in the event in Santiago, Chile.
The teammates placed second overall, just behind Mexico, competing in fencing, freestyle swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting, and cross country running.
They secured first place in show jumping, fourth in laser run, fifth in fencing, and seventh in swimming.
Held every four years, the Pan American Games is a multi-sport event that welcomes thousands of athletes from the American continent to compete in multiple summer sports competitions.
Reflecting on his successful performance, Bell says, “I am proud to have won silver at the Games, the competition was perfect. Brendan and I had all five disciplines under control throughout the event. We were so close to winning gold and were leading all the way, until the last part of the run, when Mexico passed us.
“I couldn’t be happier with the result, I’m delighted to finish the season off with a silver medal.”
In the earlier individual event, Bell finished in 11th position, meaning he is currently unable to save his seat at the 2024 Paris Olympics this upcoming summer. However, with more opportunities to qualify next year, the American athlete has not lost hope in attending the prestigious sporting event.
Bell continues: “I felt a bit frustrated after the individual event, I had more to show. Luckily, I was able to use that energy in the relay and ended up with a great performance.
“Unfortunately, I did not qualify for the Olympics but there is still a chance next year. I will get some rest first, then start my winter preparation and give it my all in the 2024 season.”
Head of Performance Sport at the University of Stirling, David Bond, says, “I am absolutely delighted for Tristen who has been rewarded for his talent and hard work with a silver medal at the Pan Am Games.
“This is an excellent achievement and is yet another example of University of Stirling athletes competing at the pinnacle of their sports internationally. We are excited to see Tristen continue to compete at the highest level, and know he has qualification for the 2024 Olympics in his sights.”
Featured image credits: Santiago 2023 / Xpress Media
Aspiring Journalist
Fourth-year Journalism Student and Sports Editor of BRIG Newspaper at Stirling University
