A promising young athlete from Manjimup has been selected for the open division of the School Sport WA National Triathlon team.

Michael Cousins will compete against teams from around Australia during the four-day event in Busselton from Monday, April 2 to Thursday, April 5.

The sports mad teenager said he was thrilled to be chosen to represent WA in the national competition.

‘‘I’m ecstatic to be part of the team and going to my first Nationals,’’ Michael said.

‘‘I love competing to the best of my ability and always strive to better myself.’’

Michael recently won the Triathlon WA Sprint Championships in the 16-19 age division and also the State Aquathon Championships in the same division.

The Nationals Triathlon will see him complete a 750m swim, a 20km cycle and then a 5km run.

He said swimming was his strongest leg, followed by running.

‘‘I’m working on my cycling with the help of specialist coaches in Bunbury and Perth,’’ he said.

‘‘I’m also part of the Triathlon Excellence Program for juniors, which enables me to access specialist coaching and coaching camps.’’

Michael’s mum Caroline said she was extremely proud of her son and now he was representing the State she hoped he would receive support from the South West Academy of Sport in the future.

‘‘Michael works very hard at his training and has reached this level through his own own dedication to succeed,’’ Ms Cousins said.

‘‘He is also very fortunate to have support from his school, Kearnan College, Manjimup Marlin Swimming Club, Manjimup Local Cyclists and Bunbury Swimming and Triathlon clubs.’’