Nimo

Background…

I started running as a complete novice in 2012 and after completing a number of running marathons and half marathons I was looking for a new challenge. In 2015 a few running friends and I decided to try something different and gave triathlon a go and this is when I was first introduced to Tri Sport Epping and signed up for their “Try A Tri” event.

At first I was super apprehensive as I was rubbish at swimming, I mean really RUBBISH and I had never owned a road bike, never mind ridden one at high speeds... “How the hell do you change the gears???” I can honestly say when I crossed the line on my first event I couldn’t believe it, I always thought triathlons was a sport “other people” did but there I was … a triathlete. I was very lucky that I chose to join a club like TSE as everyone was happy to help, give advice even on the smallest of things that can make a big difference such as using a plastic bag when putting your wetsuit on … genius!! I Quickly made some friends, and I was hooked.

Challenges…

Unfortunately, a few months later I had a nasty accident that put me out of all sports for nearly 18 months but that didn’t deter me. As soon as I healed I started my journey again and in early 2017 I signed up for Ironman Copenhagen. Starting from such an inexperienced position I knew I needed extra help for such a huge event, I decided to sign up with an excellent coach Toni Saunders. She had to be very patient with me and slowly helped me understand how to train for a long distance event.

I will never forget my first open water swim where one of the TSE lead coaches Kevin took me under his wing and helped me through my first panic stricken strokes when I thought was I was going to drown, but knowing I had this support pushed and drove me on to believe that I could do this. “Why not me” I can overcome my fears!!!

Achievements...

In 2012 I completed my first marathon which just happened to be The London Marathon, I dedicated this to the brother I lost and even had his name on my shirt so for me was very personal. His spirit dragged me over the line even after I fell and twisted my ankle at mile 6... Ouch!

My first Windsor Triathlon (Olympic distance), huge event, massive crowds, family and loved ones in the crowd cheering me on. Massive panic attack in the water as the race started but pushed through and swam like a champ, smooth and fast on the bike and completely smashed my run, WOW, I want more of this!!! My love and passion has always been running and initially I was just going through the motions on the swim and bike so I could get to the run but slowly as I got better and trained harder I found myself looking forward to the bike and on the odd occasion even the swimming.

Then, after 2 years of hard training and being kicked, screamed at and pushed by Toni my coach I finally managed to cross the line at the Ironman Copenhagen 2019 crying like a baby, I had finally done it, a challenge that only lived in my dreams and there I was I could finally say “I am an IronMan”. An epic feeling that will live with me forever.

Support…

I have made some really good friends and connections at TSE and this makes a huge difference to my continued triathlon journey. Whether it’s going out for a drink, grabbing some food and a catch up or smashing out a 100mile bike ride, it’s great to have friends who can do all these things with you. I feed off the positive vibes and the TSE family have always been there in some way to help me achieve my goals. Whether it’s a simple chat about technique or training sessions to improve and get better or even “oh that happened to me too” to know you’re not on your own and others are experiencing the same as you make you part of something bigger. I also love the competitive spirit at the club, we have so many great athletes who achieve some outstanding sporting results you can’t help but get inspired to push yourself further and harder.

I am currently enjoying some downtime but will be back soon and although training will be tough, I will be doing it with a great bunch of people that will keep me smiling.