Member Stories - Ironman 70.3 Portugal 2017

As a triathlon coach and Personal trainer there is nothing more rewarding in seeing your athletes or clients achieving what they set out to do however big or small the goal may be.

Please allow me to share the journeys and incredible achievements of Ashley Roughton and Charles Evans - two of our members.

This crazy Ironman journey all started in Indian Zing way back in January this year. Before I go any further, I must stress that it was not an alcohol fuelled decision!!! I was simply discussing some of my recent experiences with Ironman and coaching which very obviously ignited something within both Ash and Charles. 

"We want to do one" they both said and before we knew it, Ironman 70.3 Portugal was signed up to and off to work we went. 

Both Ash and Charles were very active and fit but under no illusions that this journey was a big commitment with a lot of highs and lows coming their way in the build up to race day. Typically most triathletes do have a preferred discipline as well as a "weaker" discipline (they are lying if they say they don't). Charles swam like a fish - Ash did not although certainly does now I'm proud to say!! There are so many variables and external considerations that dictate training opportunities and as a coach, one of the hardest things is finding that balance. Sometimes you get it spot on and at times you don't. Every athlete is unique, every journey and motivation is too and needs to be understood and respected. 

I generally gave both Ash and Charles training plans which initially rotated on a 4 week basis and ultimately increased their tolerance to swim-bike-run training and it was not long before obvious improvements were being made. Ash was adamant  his swimming was to improve and it absolutely did. He applied himself in an extraordinary manner and conquered many demons in the water. Charles was pushing out some big numbers on the bike too. Happy coach!! 

Weeks/months passed, the highs, the lows came and went . Occasionally,  and certainly as race day gets closer those demons of self doubt and panic seem to jump on your shoulders with more frequency and intensity. Managing those is such an underestimated and important part of this journey but both did and in impressive style I might add -well done boys. These boys stayed true to their commitment and journey throughout the entire 10 month plan which was equally impressive. 

Race Day - Sunday 3 September- Cascais Portugal - Ironman 70.3

Swim = 1.9K Sea swim

Bike = 90K 

Run = 21.1K

  

This day was not without drama but I'll keep those details between coach and athletes but what I can tell you is that both Ash and Charles arrived at both the start and finish lines which was truly inspirational. 

Ash finished with a PB of 5.50 and placed 16th in his age category. Swim = 40 mins, Bike = 2.47, Run = 2.02. 

Charles finished with a time of 6.24. Swim = 31 mins (4 mins slower than the fastest swim of the day), Bike = 3.01, Run = 2.37. 

Boys - you did it!!!

As a coach I am so proud and you've both been nothing short of inspirational. 

I salute you. 

Onto the next one.....................

Terry Rodham