From Leeds Beckett to the World Stage: Ethan Clarke Reflects on Representing Great Britain at the FISU Winter World University Games

As a Biathlon athlete, Ethan not only competed against some of the world’s best student-athletes but also had the honour of leading Team GB into the Opening Ceremony as the official Flag Bearer.

“It was surreal,” Ethan says, reflecting on the moment he walked into the stadium waving the Union Jack. “My flight from Norway had just been cancelled, so I wasn’t even sure I’d make it. Then I got the call, I couldn’t believe it. Walking out in front of such a huge crowd, it was overwhelming at first, but I embraced it. I enjoyed every minute.”

That set the tone for what would be an intense but rewarding competition period. Ethan took part in four races, including his standout performance in the 10km sprint, where he achieved his highest finish. While his skiing speed had significantly improved over the season, he admits that the shooting aspect, a notoriously challenging part of Biathlon, proved to be his main hurdle in Italy.

“Coming from the UK, where we don’t have easy access to biathlon ranges, it’s hard to keep that part of my training consistent,” he explains. “Once we were out there, I tried to use training days to get back into my rhythm, but it still affected my results.”

Despite the challenges, the experience was a major milestone in Ethan’s sporting journey. Competing against athletes up to 25 years old while still being a junior himself gave him invaluable insight into the demands of top-level competition. And it wasn’t just his athletic ability that was tested, balancing university coursework with international travel and high-performance sport required careful planning and a lot of discipline.

“In the lead-up to the Games, I made sure to get as much university work done as possible so I could fully focus on racing,” he says. “I'd use training as a break from studying and then go back to coursework. It’s all about being prepared for those intense competition periods.”

Preparation also included a week of on-snow training in Norway just before the Games, where Ethan was able to fine-tune his skiing. After returning home briefly due to a cancelled flight, he was back at the airport the next morning on his way to Italy. The journey was hectic, but worthwhile. 

Throughout the Games, Ethan stayed focused on soaking up the atmosphere and making the most of every moment. “It’s probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he says. “I just wanted to enjoy it and race as well as I could. Meeting other students from all over the world was an amazing part of the experience too.”

Looking ahead, Ethan sees this competition as a stepping stone toward even bigger goals. “It gave me a glimpse of what competing at the World Cup or even the Olympics could feel like. It’s definitely motivating.”

For other student-athletes dreaming of competing internationally, Ethan’s advice is grounded and practical: “Focus on improving your performance, keep working on your weaknesses, and refine your strengths. Track your progress and be ready to adapt.”

After returning to Leeds Beckett, he brings with him not just memories of an unforgettable experience, but also a renewed drive, both as an athlete and a student.

His story is a testament to what’s possible with commitment, preparation, and a passion for sport.

Watch this space for the upcoming announcement of Leeds Beckett athletes selected to represent Team GB at the FISU Summer World University Games this July—another opportunity for our students to shine on the international stage.

Ethan Clarke, Science of Sport Performance, Carnegie School of Sport.