The achievement of brothers Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee in winning gold and bronze medals in yesterday’s triathlon at the London 2012 Olympic Games has been hailed as “one of the greatest successes in the history of Leeds sport”.

The pair, who live in Bramhope in Leeds, confirmed their status as two of the world’s leading triathletes as 24-year-old Alistair took the gold medal, with his 22-year-old younger brother Jonathan taking bronze in the Olympic event which took place in and around Hyde Park.

Reflecting on their success, the Lord Mayor of Leeds Councillor Ann Castle said:
“We have just seen what must be one of the greatest successes in the history of sport in Leeds.
“On behalf of everyone in the city I pass on our admiration and congratulations to Alistair and Jonathan. Their dedication and commitment to their sport is astonishing, and they are perfect ambassadors and role models for Leeds. We cannot wait to give them a heroes’ welcome when they come back to Leeds to celebrate.”

The brothers went into the race as hot favourites to win, with Alistair being the reigning World Triathlon Series champion and Jonathan ending the 2011 season in his highest-ever second spot.

Alistair’s build-up to London 2012 was hindered by an Achilles injury earlier in the year, but he was able to recover and return to his best form in time for the Games.