Fiona Bennett shares her secrets to scoring 15 minute PBs, how she keeps motivated and how she overcomes scary goals.
Why Triathlon?
My friend Clive encouraged me to register for the 2015 Ironman Western Sydney 70.3 as he thought I’d enjoy triathlon. If it wasn’t for Clive I wouldn’t had the courage to try.
Memorable quote/catchphrase?
‘Finish strong’ ‘Love hills’ and ‘If your goals don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.’
What was your first Tri? And how does your performance compare to now?
I finished the 2015 Ironman Western Sydney 70.3 in 5:31 and this year in 5:16 so I was really stoked with a 15 minute PB. Getting trophies for 3rd place in my age group (45-49) in both races was the icing on the cake. I’m looking forward to moving up to the 50-54 age group next year.
I’ve also done the Elite Energy triTheGong OD in 2014 and 2015, and the Nepean Triathlon in October. #stillarookie.
What do you put this significant improvement down to?
Training consistently and following the plan.
Lessons learnt?
The time spent in transition is included in your race overall time.
What’s your favourite meal pre-race?
Race day brekkie is rice porridge with yogurt, blueberries and banana.
What are your nutrition tips during a race?
Drink and eat as dehydration and bonking isn’t fun.
How do you keep motivated to get up at 5am or finish a gruelling set?
Getting to train with everyone in the MP squad and staying focused on my goals.
What do you enjoy most about triathlon?
The sense of accomplishment and pushing myself to do my best. Grateful that I’m lucky enough to be able to swim/bike/run and that getting older isn’t an excuse to slow down or not give it a go. Congratulating and chatting with the other competitors once we’ve crossed the finish line.
Have you had to overcome any injuries and how did you do it?
Since starting training with Moore Performance at the end of June I haven’t had any significant injuries that have affected my training, Danny has been great at making sure I don’t over do it and that I get enough recovery.
What is your favourite ride/run or swim?
All three!
Why do you like training with Danny / Moore Performance squad?
Having a structured training plan, and everyone in the squad is friendly and encouraging.
What did you do before triathlon?
I started running in 2011 as I wanted to run a half marathon, and before that I use to go to the gym (weight training) and boxing/kickboxing.
Which athletes inspire you?
Everyone in the MP squad, and anyone that has a goal and goes for it!
What do you like to do for post-race celebrations?
Eat fish and chips, drink orange juice and an afternoon nap.
What’s something about you that we didn’t know before?
I’ve got a Whippet puppy called Benny.
