Microgaming is pleased to add the highly talented Joseph Ricciardi to its Ambassador Programme. 

Microgaming’s Ambassador Programme celebrates individuals of outstanding ability, knowledge or repute. Established in 2013, the programme initially supported Keith Gerrard and Laura Kinley, two of the island’s finest athletes, providing financial assistance to ensure they could compete in events across the globe. Joining Keith and Laura as a Microgaming Ambassador in 2015 is Joseph Ricciardi, a promising triathlete.

Though a keen sportsman from an early age, it was only in 2012 that Joseph stumbled across triathlon as a sport. He entered his first race months later; an event ran by the Manx Tri Club; and won the junior race, setting a new junior record along the way.

Since, Joseph has combined his raw talent with a rigorous training plan of eight sessions a week (whilst studying for three A-Levels!). His hard work and dedication has paid off; in 2014 he completed seven triathlons. Highlights include the London Virgin Active Triathlon where he finished 10th in a strong field of international athletes, and the British Triathlon Championships, where he posted the fastest bike split of the whole sprint event, and placed 6th out of 250 people (2nd in his age group).

Recently named a Sport Aid recipient, in 2015 the 17 year-old hopes to gain further experience at the Olympic Tri level (1500m swim, 40km bike, 10km run) competing at the Island Games in Jersey and representing Team GB at the European Championships in Geneva. The long-term goal for Joseph is to turn professional.

Joseph Ricciardi, Microgaming Ambassador, comments: “I’m absolutely thrilled that Microgaming has named me an Ambassador for the company; the support they are providing will enable me to travel to various competitions off-island and increase my level of experience internationally. I love triathlon, and I’m very lucky to live on an island that supports this sport; the island lends itself perfectly to cycling and running, and we have a brilliant Manx Tri Club who host some superb local events. I’m very grateful to Microgaming and all my sponsors for supporting my sporting career. I have a busy year ahead and I can’t wait for the season to get underway.”

Claire Coleman, Head of Microgaming PlayItForward, comments: “We are delighted to welcome Joseph to the Microgaming family. Joseph is a gifted young athlete and we know he has the talent and determination to shine on the international stage. As with all our ambassadors, we’ll follow Joseph’s career closely and we wish him the best of luck with his busy year ahead.”