Signing up for the Eastbourne Triathlon was the start of a journey I never expected to enjoy as much as I did. It was the first triathlon that caught my eye, and something about it made me want to take the leap. Looking back, entering that race turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made.
I started training with Mike around three months before race day, and the experience became about so much more than preparing for one event. Of course, I became fitter and stronger, but I also discovered a genuine love for triathlon. It's given me something that benefits not only my physical health but my mental wellbeing too. Training has become a time where I can switch off, reset and feel calm.
At first, I didn’t quite understand Mike’s approach because, naturally, you expect your coach to tell you exactly what to do. Whenever I’d ask him for his thoughts on something, his answer was rarely a direct one - it was usually, “It depends… I’m going to spin that back to you.” But I soon realised there was a reason behind it. He encourages you to reflect on how your body feels, what your goals are, how confident you feel, and whether you’re truly ready. Rather than creating athletes who rely on him for every decision, he gives you the tools and confidence to make those decisions yourself. That has probably been one of the biggest lessons I’ve taken away from working with him, and it’s something I’ll carry with me into every future event.
Race day arrived, and despite the nerves, I felt ready. Mike often says that 99% of the work is done in training - the race is just the final 1%. Standing on that start line, I genuinely believed it.
The swim flew by much quicker than I expected, and my first transition went smoothly. Heading out onto the bike, I felt surprisingly strong. Even though it was a hot day, my legs felt incredibly fresh, and I really appreciated just how valuable taper week is. Trusting the process paid off.
The climb that Eastbourne is known for wasn't nearly as intimidating as I'd imagined because my training had prepared me for it. By the time I got onto the run, I was expecting the famous "jelly legs" feeling that so many people talk about after getting off the bike, but they didn't come. My second transition was quick, I settled into a steady pace and, somehow, still had enough left to sprint down the finish chute.
Crossing the finish line was an incredible feeling. The first person I saw at the end was Mike, and I think I practically collapsed into his arms because I was so overwhelmed with happiness and pride at what I'd achieved and how thankful I was for Mike’s coach techniques and knowledge.
Looking back now, I realise that Mike hasn't just coached me to complete a triathlon. He's taught me how to trust myself, listen to my body, enjoy the process, and believe that I'm capable of more than I ever thought possible.
I've well and truly caught the triathlon bug, and this is only the beginning. I'm excited for what's next and can't wait to continue learning, improving, and taking on new challenges with Mike's guidance.
