Local neurodiverse teen athlete qualifies to represent Great Britain at world championships in South Africa
Fifteen-year-old Joshua Cox, a neurodiverse student-athlete from Rushall, has qualified to represent Great Britain at the 2025 UIPM World Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run Championships, taking place in Mossel Bay, South Africa this December.
Josh, who has a dual diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), has defied the odds to rise through the ranks in both Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) and Pentathlon GB sports, including Biathle and Laser Run. Most recently, he secured 2nd place in the U17 Boys category at the National Biathle Championships in Weymouth—earning his spot on Team GBR in both the individual and mixed relay events.
“This opportunity means everything to me,” Josh shared. “Sport has given me a way to refocus and escape the challenges I face in everyday life, especially at school. I might look like a neurotypical athlete on the start line, but it’s taken me a long and unusual road to get there.”
Josh is a proud member of Target Sport Burntwood, his local Pentathlon GB club and The Obstacle Gym, and trains weekly in OCR, circuits, Laser Run, swimming, and running. He also swims competitively with Burntwood Swimming Club and continues to be an active part of the UK OCR scene, having previously competed at both the OCR World and European Championships.
Despite his achievements, Josh’s journey is completely self-funded, and he is currently raising funds to cover the cost of travel, accommodation, race fees, Pentathlon GB kit, and coaching support for the championship. His GoFundMe campaign outlines a detailed breakdown of costs, with a total fundraising target of around £3,000.
In addition to accepting donations, Josh is also undertaking personal fundraising efforts—including selling unused tech and toys plus organising a raffle —to help fund his dream.
Support Josh’s journey to the World Championships: gofundme.com/manage/sponsorship-gteamjuniors-josh-lauren
Follow Josh’s training and progress on Instagram: instagram.com/josh.lolly_cox
About Josh:
Josh has been active in sport since early childhood, beginning in the water as a baby and later gaining a junior black belt in kickboxing. Diagnosed with both ADHD and ASD, and also living with hypermobility and dyspraxia, Josh has shown remarkable perseverance. He continues to break boundaries and serve as an inspiration to young athletes—especially those who are neurodiverse or face barriers in traditional sport.
