Mark Todman
1. How did you get into Triathlon?
Back in 2005 (before it was cool to Tri!), a couple of work colleagues convinced me to enter the Brinscall Triathlon. I went out too hard in the swim, spent the whole bike ride regretting it and just about got through the run, which was 2.5km uphill and then 2.5km back down the same hill! That was it really until a broken leg prematurely ended my very average rugby career and I needed to find something else to keep me active. Somehow that ended up being triathlon (I blame Robin).
2. What training do you enjoy and what do you hate?
I really enjoy cycling and I am growing to love outdoor swim sessions, but you can keep the running.
3. Give us an insight into your day dreams when you are out training on your own?
How far have I gone? What, is that all? That's not very far! But I've been running for ages. Why does it hurt so much? Should I take a little break? No! Go on, just a little one, no-one will know; it will be our little secret. No, I tell you, I'm only cheating myself...
4. Give us one top training tip?
If you are a decent athlete (and even if you aren't) improving your swimming technique is a great way to reduce your time. Not only will your swim get faster, but you'll also be fresher on the cycle and run, improving times in these sections as well.
5. Talk us through your best and worst tri events to date?
Best - Wilmslow Sprint Triathlon 2010: first triathlon since 2005, really enjoyed it, smashed my swim target time, beat Robin out of the water, had a decent ride and hung on in the run to finish 13 mins ahead of target!
Worst - Liverpool Sprint Triathlon 2010: the hottest day of the year, got into my wetsuit too early and was sweating more than Mr. Sweaty, you know the guy, he lives on Sweat Street, in Sweatington, winner of last year's Mr. Sweaty competition. Anyway, I didn't really recover from the early loss of fluid. I didn't enjoy my first competitive open water swim, I made the easy cycle ride look like hard work and got a stitch on the run.
6. If you were doing (or thinking of doing) a triathlon for the first time, which one piece of advice would you give?
Take time to prepare - read the event instructions, make sure you pack everything you could possibly need before you leave for the event and carefully lay out your kit before you go to the swim start. Try not to go out too hard on the swim. But, most of all enjoy it and make sure you have a smile on your face for the inevitable event photograph! (Opps, that's three bits!)
7. What’s your ultimate triathlon dream (e.g. win a race, complete an Ironman)?
Erm, I am not sure I have one. I would like to improve my Olympic time - first stage 2:45 and then 2:30. I can certainly see a Half Ironman on the horizon and then who knows what a mid-life crisis could result in?!
8. What’s your favourite piece of tri kit/gadget that you own?
My bike - ummm all shiny and carbon. I think that the two best value bits of kit for a beginner (not that I am a pro!) are a race belt and lace locks. They both make transition so much quicker.
9. What’s your post race indulgence (food and drink)?
I usually have some sort of recovery drink to ensure that I can still move the next day and have the energy to enjoy a well earned beer. Oh, and chips and Helen's cake.
My during race indulgence is Turkish Delight - not for everyone, but it works for me!
10. Finally, who from KTC would you most like to pip on the finish line?
Charlie Williams, if I ever beat Charlie (which is incredibly unlikely), then I must be doing something right (assuming he isn't doing something wrong!).
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