PASSIONATE ABOUT SHARING HIS LOVE FOR SPORT, THIERRY BESSEDE FOUNDED JURA SPORTS IN 2018 WITH A SIMPLE MISSION: HELP ATHLETES REACH THEIR POTENTIAL AND INSPIRE CHILDREN TO DISCOVER AND ENJOY SPORT.
TODAY, JURA SPORTS HAS GROWN INTO A DYNAMIC, COMMUNITY-DRIVEN STRUCTURE OFFERING ENDURANCE COACHING IN RUNNING, CYCLING AND TRIATHLON, ALONGSIDE A BIKE CLUB, ATHLETICS CLUB, AND THE POPULAR JURA KIDS CAMPS ACROSS TERRE SAINTE AND LA COTE.
FROM FIRST EXPERIENCES TO PERFORMANCE TRAINING, JURA SPORTS PROVIDES A PATHWAY FOR ALL AGES AND LEVELS — COMBINING FUN, DEVELOPMENT AND A LIFELONG LOVE OF SPORT.
Thierry Bessède – Founder and Head Coach
Swiss national, husband and father of three, Thierry is an experienced endurance coach with a multidisciplinary background in cycling, triathlon, strength training, and nutrition. He holds the highest level of certification in cycling coaching (UCI), alongside qualifications as an ITCA Triathlon Coach, Strength & Conditioning Coach (IFAS International), and Nutritionist (Esclarmonde).
Thierry combines a strong academic background with real-world experience, holding a BA in Modern History, Politics and Economic History from Royal Holloway, University of London, and an MSc in Shipping, Trade and Finance from Cass Business School (City, University of London).
As an athlete, Thierry has completed multiple marathons and IRONMAN races, and has competed at an international level, qualifying for the UCI Granfondo World Championships and participating in World and European Championships across triathlon disciplines. Earlier in his sporting journey, he also competed in golf at a high level, representing his country at youth level and the University of London at the World University Matchplay Championships.
Before transitioning into coaching, Thierry spent 10 years in international commodities trading across three countries. This experience shaped his understanding of performance beyond sport — balancing a demanding career, structured training, nutrition, and family life.
Having faced weight challenges in his youth, Thierry transformed his lifestyle through endurance sport and nutrition. Today, his passion lies in coaching the next generation — helping young athletes develop not only their performance, but also confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for sport.
Contact: thierry@jurasports.com
Jasper McDowell – Running Coach & Junior Camps Head Coach
Swiss and British national, Jasper holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Sports Science from Loughborough University. He is also a qualified fitness instructor and personal trainer, with a strong foundation in both performance and athlete development.
Jasper has a diverse sporting background, having competed at a high level in both team and individual sports, representing Switzerland in rugby and fencing. He is now fully dedicated to endurance running, competing in events ranging from 5 km to ultra-distance races up to 100 miles.
A high-level athlete himself, Jasper has achieved a marathon personal best of 2h18 and is the Swiss Vice Champion in the marathon, placing him among the country’s top endurance runners.
Jasper has been part of Jura Sports since its very beginning in 2018. He plays a key role within the athletics club and leads the Junior Camps, where he brings energy, structure, and a passion for helping young athletes grow.
Beyond performance, Jasper is a true role model for the next generation — combining discipline, humility, and a genuine commitment to helping each athlete reach their potential.
Contact: info@jurasports.com
ATHLETE REVIEWS
I was new to 1 to 1 coaching before signing up with Thierry; having been a gym goer for a number of years, I was looking for something extra to motivate me, push me to the next level and enable me to train more outdoors than in. I wanted a coach who had been there and done it and could speak from firsthand experience and not just about theory. I have limited time to train so wanted to ensure I am getting the most out of my sessions when I do. Thierry listened to my goals, guided me through my options and provided me with a comprehensive and tailored plan to achieve my fitness objectives and event goals. Thierry makes things clear, straight forward, motivating and his follow up had been first class. I look forward to seeing what I can achieve with his guidance!