Welcome to Meet the TA Family. In this series, we take a closer look at the incredible individuals that form the backbone of our triathlon squad. Beyond the rigorous training sessions and the thrill of racing, it’s about connecting on a personal level, building relationships, and embracing the camaraderie that makes us more than just a team. Meet the TA Family is an opportunity for us to celebrate not only the athlete within, but the person behind the sport.
What initially inspired you to join TA and how has the experience been so far?
It was an unexpected health scare on the eve of Covid lockdowns that initially steered me towards a fitter lifestyle. I took up running, a decision that would unknowingly reshape my future. Fast forward to a fateful day in November 2022, during one of my regular Sunday runs along Elwood beach, I, rather amusingly and completely by accident, found myself amidst a group of triathletes finishing the Elwood 2XU. How did I end up there? It’s a mystery to me too! Intrigued by the energy, I delved deeper into the 2XU series and was soon signing up for my first Fun Tri. My enthusiasm took me to the TA Tips and Tricks clinic where I met Ollie, whose animated 
passion for the sport was both infectious and inspiring. It was through this experience that I stumbled upon the TA community and the ‘Try the Tri’ program. Here, I geared up to complete my first Sprint race.
A whirlwind 7 months have passed since then, and now, I find myself penning down my journey for the TA “Meet the TA Family” segment. And for the experience so far, I have achieved things that I thought were not possible seeing that I am now 21 years into my 30’s. The TA family has been inviting, encouraging and non-judgmental which makes the whole experience more rewarding. It’s been an exhilarating ride, one that was sparked by chance but fuelled by passion and a commitment to make serious lifestyle changes for my family.
Triathlon involves three different disciplines. Is there one you particularly enjoy or find more challenging?
Without a doubt, swimming has been the biggest challenge for me so far. I often joke with my kids that I approach it with the grace of a rock, sinking more than gliding. Have I seen marked improvement yet? I’d be honest and say not at this stage. But I won’t relent or give up. I keep turning up to each practice with the hope and aspiration that, one day, I might evolve from resembling a rock to, at the very least, a smoother pebble in the water.
How do you manage to balance your training commitments with your professional and personal life?
Initially I thought juggling the responsibilities of running a small business with rigorous training commitments seemed a daunting/maybe impossible task. However, the commitment (expectation – I’m scared to miss coach Gary’s sessions) required for training has inadvertently honed my time-management skills. The consistent training regimen has made me more accountable, teaching me to utilise my working hours with enhanced efficiency and productivity. Additionally, the notable boost in my fitness levels has not just improved my physical well-being but has also amplified my energy and focus. As a result, I find that I’m accomplishing more in my professional life, proving that personal growth and professional commitment can, indeed, complement each other!
What’s the most hilarious or embarrassing moment you’ve had during a training session or race?
Without a doubt falling off my bike during Tri the Try training and looking up at everyone looking down at me. It reminded me of a Far Side Comic by Gary Larson – Google it ‘Wonderful! Just Wonderful… So much for instilling them with a sense of awe”.
Share a quirky or unique talent that most people wouldn’t know about you.
I work in finance, governance and compliance but my initial studies were in music – classical voice!
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three items would you want to have with you?
- My first-generation iPod with over 1000 hours of music.
- A small solar panel charger for my fist generation iPod
- A back up first-generation iPod with over 1000 hours of music
