What made you get into triathlons?

I first got into triathlon in 2002 while living in Greece. A friend said he had done an Ironman and as I have always been easy to suck into a challenge I thought…’oh this sounds like could be hard!’ and so started training and did an Olympic distance race. I did stop for 11 years though before I picked it up again in 2013 after watching my brother cross the Challenge Roth finish line

 

What has been your proudest/best triathlon moment?

Crossing the line at my first Ironman 70.3 which was Vineman in California. I had raised money for Brain Tumour Research after my friend died at the age of 42 from a brain tumour leaving behind 3 young children. It was a very emotional moment for me as I did the race with her every step of the way.

 

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced?

Dealing with injuries has definitely been my biggest challenge. Besides getting over them, the psychological burden of not being able to do what I love has always taken its toll on me.

 

Who is your inspiration, and why?

My inspiration has always been people who overcome major difficulties in order to complete endurance events like an Ironman. Whether it is a physical challenge, a serious illness, being of a certain age etc for me they are the real heroes of these epic races. I am much more inspired by the last person crossing the line when it is dark and has just made the cut off than the pro who wins the race.

 

What are your future goals?

I would love to qualify for the Ironman 70.3 World Champs in Australia so that is my focus for this season. In the future I would also like to go longer and do an Ironman and an Ultramarathon.

 

What would be your one piece of essential advice to someone looking to start up triathlons? 

Don’t get too bothered with getting kitted up and spending tons of money. Borrow as much as you can, do a super sprint and see if you like it first. You probably will, so after that start saving!!:)

 

What is your favourite piece of triathlon kit?

I love my Betty Designs trisuits! I’m a girl after all so like to feel good in the kit I race in!

 

What’s your favourite thing about triathlons?

Triathlon is a great community of people. I love interacting with other athletes, sharing a common passion and exchanging triathlon stories. I am also grateful for the great sense of achievement it gives me when I reach my goals and exceed them.

 

As it’s Women in Sport Week: What do you think is the biggest challenge for women triathletes, & how do you overcome them?

The biggest challenge is balancing a family with work and training/racing. As a woman you have to be much more disciplined and organised in order to manage to fit everything in and keep everyone happy including yourself. It is not easy but it can be done….I promise!