Timber champion competes weeks after childbirth

Justine Ellis was the British women's Timbersports champion in 2023 [Justine Ellis]A Timbersports Champion is preparing to compete at a national event weeks after giving birth.

>Justine Ellis, from Oswestry, Shropshire, will take part in the STIHL Timbersports British Championships in Malvern.

>The championship, held as part of the Royal Three Counties Show, is a sport where athletes compete against each other and the clock in traditional logging disciplines.

>The 36-year-old, who won the British women's title in 2023, gave birth to her fourth child eight weeks ago and said balancing training with family life had been challenging.

>"I haven't maybe put as many training sessions as some other female athletes but I have worked hard with the time I have," she said.

>"The passion for the sport is still incredibly strong and the drive to compete is what keeps me pushing forwards."

>The sport tests speed and strength using axes, cross-cut saws and chainsaws.

>Ellis, a telecommunications engineer, first discovered it in 2022 and finished runner-up in her debut season.

Ellis has competed around the world [Justine Ellis]"I have travelled and represented myself in Sweden, Italy, Germany, in France, all over the world," she said.

>Ellis said she was looking forward to competing again this year.

>"My coach who actually introduced me to the sport has taken me under his wing as well and still looks after me with training and guidance which is just amazing.

>"I mean, without him I wouldn't be here. I wouldn't be in the sport or taking part and travel the world and be part of such an amazing community."

>Ellis said female participation in the sport was growing.

>"We are one big family, friends in the sport and outside the sport as well which is amazing, but once you are on the stage, you are in the mode to compete and do your best."

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