Inspiring TA Females – Tam – IWD 2023

Did you know that this Wednesday is International Women’s Day? We are very fortunate as a squad to have so many strong, powerful, and inspiring females, as well as one of the highest percentages of females in a squad.

We decided that one day to celebrate women wasn’t enough, so we’ll be celebrating and highlighting a few women in the squad all week!

We went around asking people to name an inspiring female in the squad in the lead-up to this week, and this one got a few nominations! Did Tam come to mind for you, too?

So, Tam, how well do you know her? We believe she will surprise you Let’s get to know her together!

How long have you been doing triathlon?

Just over a year now. I joined triathlon and Tri-Alliance in TTT#3 of the 2021/22 season.

Which is your favourite discipline in a triathlon?

The bike. I love being out there riding together. I especially love our long rides!

What do you love most about the sport?

I love that triathlon is an inclusive team sport. It doesn’t matter who you are or what your athletic ability is, there is always a place for you in triathlon. We train as a team and challenge everyone to improve. Ultimately, we race as a team too. A few words of encouragement from your teammates make all the difference during a race.

Have you had to conquer any barriers in the sport?

We are all competitive, and one barrier I’ve conquered is not comparing myself to others based on numbers. For example, when people ask, “what power can you hold” or “how fast did you go”, my standard response is to shrug. For me, I train and race based on RPE. So, I always know I’ve done my best regardless of what the power meter or the clock says!

What barriers have you faced in triathlon and how did you overcome them?

Probably the biggest barrier I’ve faced is injury. I’ve had knee, Achilles, and hamstring injuries, and a few shoulder niggles along the way. It is incredibly tough when the physio tells you to take time off and rest. For me, these injuries originate from a lack of strength. Strength and resistance exercises have helped, and I am a lot stronger than when I first started triathlon. I am looking forward to our winter strength block where my goal is to become even stronger!

What is something your fellow tri friends don’t know about you?

I eat rice and curry for breakfast after a morning training session.

What is your favourite inspiring quote?

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that count.” – Winston Churchill 8.

Who is a woman you look up to?

My mum. She is the most amazing woman, and she made me who I am today.

Do you have a mentor or another triathlete you admire?

Sometimes the hardest part of training is showing up. So, I admire everyone who has the courage to do that!