A Liverpool grandfather who was considering a quieter life at 71 has instead become a multi-medallist for Team GB. Phil Mylotte, 74, from Aigburth, now represents Great Britain in international Biathle competitions, a challenging run-swim-run sport.
After a couple of cycling accidents made him reconsider his athletic pursuits, a chance conversation with a swimming coach introduced him to the world of Masters-level competitive sports. He has since won several titles, including a European gold medal, and is preparing for his next championship in Turkey this November.
Key Takeaways
- Phil Mylotte, a 74-year-old from Aigburth, represents Team GB in the Masters category for Biathle (run-swim-run).
- He joined at the age of 72 after a coach suggested it, despite thinking he was too old for international competition.
- Mylotte has won numerous medals, including a European gold medal, since beginning his new athletic career in 2022.
- He will compete in the UIPM Biathle/Triathle European Championships in Turkey this November.
- He advocates for people of all ages to set physical goals to maintain their health and well-being.
A New Direction at 71
Phil Mylotte has always led an active life. The grandfather-of-five and nutrition coach has a long history with sports, having completed the New York Marathon in 2004 and participated in numerous triathlons.
However, about three years ago, his passion for cycling faded after a few incidents left him wary of getting back on the bike. Believing his days of intense competition were winding down, he decided to focus on his other skills.
"I had a couple of incidents coming off the bike and I really fell out of love with the bike," Mylotte explained. "But I thought I could sharpen up on my swimming."
This decision led him to seek professional coaching, a move that would unexpectedly open a new chapter in his life.
The Path to Team GB
While working with a swimming coach who was also involved with the British triathlon team, an unexpected opportunity arose. The coach recognised Mylotte's potential and posed a question that took him by surprise.
"We got talking and he said have you ever thought of Team GB," Mylotte recalled. "I turned around to look behind me and thought is he talking to somebody else here. I thought I'm 72."
He soon learned about the Team GB Masters programme, which offers competitive categories for athletes in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and even 70s. Crucially, the Biathle event—a continuous run-swim-run competition—did not involve cycling.
What is Biathle?
Biathle is a sub-sport of modern pentathlon, governed by the Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne (UIPM). It consists of a continuous race involving running, open-water swimming, and another running leg. It tests both endurance and the ability to transition quickly between disciplines.
With his strong running background and improving swimming skills, Mylotte was a natural fit. "He said, you're great, your running is good and I'll help you," Mylotte said of his coach's encouragement. After a period of dedicated training and qualification events, he earned his place on the team.
International Success and Family Pride
Mylotte's entry into international competition was swift and successful. His first major event saw him travel to Greece, where he exceeded all expectations by winning a European gold medal for his age group.
Since that initial victory in 2022, he has continued to compete and collect medals. His journey is a source of immense pride for his family, especially his five grandchildren.
"We've got five grandkids on and they think it's fantastic," he shared. "They say granddad is an Olympian and they write about it in school."
Upcoming Competition
Phil Mylotte's next major event is the UIPM Biathle/Triathle European Championships in Antalya, Turkey, scheduled for November. He will travel with his wife, Barbara, with whom he recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Reflecting on his unexpected journey, Mylotte expressed his surprise and gratitude. "Because I fell out of love with the bike, I thought I was going to slow down and then an opportunity turns up like this," he said. "Who would have thought, someone like me, a really a normal guy, in Team GB."
A Message of Motivation
As a nutrition coach for nearly 25 years, Mylotte has long understood the importance of a healthy lifestyle. His experience with Team GB has reinforced his belief that age should not be a barrier to physical activity and personal achievement.
He encourages everyone, regardless of age, to find a goal and pursue it. He believes that having a target is essential for motivation.
"We definitely need goals and for me, it's a date in the diary. For someone else, it could be something like the Couch to 5K," he suggested. His message is not about becoming an elite athlete but about taking proactive steps towards better health.
"We're not going to run as fast as we did when we were 21—but I do think it's a fabulous message. You don't need to be in Team GB to be taking good care of yourself. Commit to something and then just go for it."
Mylotte's story serves as a powerful reminder that new opportunities can arise at any stage of life, and that the decision to slow down is not always the final word.