I’ve grown up with sport and have played everything from squash and basketball, to athletics and cricket. After Matt convinced me that triathlon needed adding to that list – and he agreed to lend me one of his bikes which is now my trusty winter training bike! – I competed in my first sprint triathlon at Southwell back in 2011 and was hooked. I booked my next race as soon as I got home!

Over the last couple of years, I’ve worked my way up to increase my distances taking part in numerous Olympic distance races. In 2014 I took part in the iconic Vitruvian triathlon at Rutland Water. As soon as entries opened for Vitruvian 2015 opened I’d signed up! In June 2015 I raced IM70.3 Luxembourg and in June 2017 I completed IM70.3 UK, Exmoor.

I’m the first to admit that I’m not the fastest swimmer, cyclist or runner but that doesn’t matter. What matters is applying yourself to training and seeing just what you can achieve when you put your mind to it. You’ll be amazed at what your body can do when you have a structured training plan in place, weekly contact and feedback from your coach, tips and advice, the patience to work on your weaknesses and the sheer determination to succeed. Anything really is possible.

If your goal is to complete your first sprint, Olympic distance or half Ironman race, drop me a line. Training can be really tough, I won’t lie, but once you’ve crossed that finish line with #TeamTCUK, you’ll never look back – that feeling is one of the best in the world and it’s addictive.

For more information or advice, please email me: kirsten@triathloncoaching.uk.com