Find out the triathlon lessons Suzi has learnt from stepping into the unknown.
How was your race in Port Mac?
Port Mac was both a mental and physical struggle. I knew going into the race that I was not where I ideally wanted or needed to be, I had no idea what to expect, which was ultimately my biggest worry. Much like my first ever 70.3 it felt like I was stepping into the unknown again.
- I was happy with a PB on the swim – thank you Lisa!
- Bike – windy conditions, but I need to get stronger!
- Run – a struggle, but it was to be expected!
Why did you decide on that goal?
I had no goal going into this race, I was just hoping I could complete it and it not be too painful!
What was your first tri? And how did your performance compare to now?
My first ever tri was May 2017, Port Stephens Sprint. I came third in my age group and as Port was a little tough it felt a hell of a lot easier.
What’s your next goal race?
I guess it has to be 70.3 Nice with a few running races in between, I hope.
What was your best race?
The race I have the fondest memories of is my first Half Ironman in Mooloolaba – Sept 2017. What an atmosphere! What a race! I also competed with a dear friend of mine who has since moved back to Europe – we both started this journey together.
In terms of timings, my best time was Western Sydney – Nov 2017.
What do you put this significant improvement down to?
Western Sydney was 15 minutes faster than Mooloolaba, I would put this down to experience and fitness.
Lessons learnt?:
Run fitness counts for a lot – I learnt that this year at Port – I felt things I had never felt before coming off the bike (cramp, back pain, sore knees). It defiantly counts to be ready and prepared.
I’ve also learnt that you need to treat your body with respect – I’m going to make a conscience effort to do at least one yoga session a week and when needed get a massage.
What’s your favourite meal pre-race?
Night before – Spaghetti Bolognese
Morning of – Porridge
What are your nutrition tips during a race?
Have what you are going to eat and make sure you eat it! I also have my last bit of food on the bike about 20 – 30 minutes before the run, I don’t like my stomach to feel too full.
How do you keep motivated to get up at 5am or finish a gruelling set?
Knowing Keithy will be waiting for me on the corner of McEvoy & Hunter Street, ha! 😀
Sometimes its tough, but doing a race isn’t all about the day, it’s about the preparation and dedication that you put in prior. It all makes what you achieve on the day that bit sweeter – I try and keep that in mind.
It also sets me up nicely before a day at work.
What is your favourite ride/run/ and swim?
The first time I rode West Head I couldn’t keep the smile of my face, what a change from Waterfall!
Run – Opera House loop – what a privilege!
Swim – you can’t beat Red Leaf or Clovelly loops.
Have you had to overcome any injuries and how did you do it?:
After Port last year I injured my Achilles Sheath (Tenosynovitis) – this meant no running from May 2018 until Feb 2019 – in the end it took a lot of resting, patience and a cortisone injection.
Two weeks before Port I pulled my back and at this point I felt like throwing in the towel, with that and my Achilles I’d had enough (dramatic I know) and I became pretty negative and paranoid about every little niggle or pain. I thank everyone who listened to my worries and helped lift my spirits because that’s what got me through – the power of words are somewhat amazing!
Memorable motivational quote/catchphrase:
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you”
Why do you like training with Danny / Moore Performance squad?
It’s a family away from home! The people are great & Danny ensures that there is a good balance of the three disciplines; coffee, socials and training ?
What did you do before triathlon?
I used to go to the gym every morning and swim occasionally.
Which athletes inspire you?
Brownlee Brothers – genetic
Lucy Charles – fellow Brit
Anthony Joshua – humble and in it for the right reasons
Kelly Holmes – passion
Burgess Brothers – they eat spag bowl the night before a match, so do I
Ross Edgley – adventurer
Shannon “the cannon” Briggs – The Champ!
Jay Luke – doesn’t need to train
I guess this list could go on ….
What you like to do post-race celebrations?
Being around friends, eating chocolate and chips (hot or cold) and if there is an Ironman cheering on the rest of the crew!
What’s your ideal weekend?
A bit of exercise, a bit of relaxation, a cheeky afternoon nap, breakfast out and either meeting friends, adventures out of Sydney or the occasional night out.
If you could be anywhere right now in the world where would that be?
At my Auntie and Uncle’s cottage, in the lush green English Countryside, sipping on a G&T, firing up a BBQ, with the rest of my family & friends!
What’s something about you we didn’t know before?
I went to boarding school when I was six and I love food with a crunch!
