FAO 220
Write or email the 220 office and have your say
FEEL THE RACE
After a playing a contact sport for 25 years I finally decided it was time to pursue my interest in triathlon. Inspired by an article in 220, I joined my local club and did a couple of local tri’s last year. My work now means my training sessions are limited, but I recently marshalled at the club’s Aquathlon in Basildon. The weather was pretty dismal to say the least, but while I was waiting for athletes at the top of a hill, I had a thought to download a few motivational songs – the Rocky theme, Chariots of Fire, Queen… and played them as the runners approached. It went down a treat, raising many a smile and fist pump.
So my point in writing to you? Marshalling – what a brilliant thing to do if you can’t take part. My day was an absolute blast, and while it’s probably been said before I’d encourage everyone to get involved, help your club put on an event and marshal. It’s a really great way to feel the vibe of the race. I promise you, you won’t regret it. Craig Brittney
220 replies: Great idea! Just as long as you played ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ and not ‘Another One Bites the Dust’.
LOVING EVERY MINUTE
Did my first triathlon at Swansea recently. Absolutely chuffed with it. My kids (Gwion and Nia) were both given medals, too, as I had to do the dad thing and pick them over the barriers to run with me to the finish! And what did I think? I loved every minute of the event! Gareth Edmondson
220 replies: Congratulations, Gareth! And to Gwion and Nia!
THE MAGIC NUMBER
I recently took part in the Cotswolds Super Sprint Triathlon, my first ever triathlon. I began my journey with little understanding of all the training, kit and terminology involved in the sport. To quench my thirst for research and understanding, I happened upon 220 magazine and soon became hooked with the useful hints, tips and research. So much so that I couldn’t resist one of your tempting offers to take up a full subscription!
Anyhow, after five months of training and slowly becoming familiar with techniques and terminology, I arrived for the pre-event registration. To my great surprise and huge motivation, I discovered that my first ever race number was 220! The look of pride on my face as a race organiser penned the number on my arm and leg. I still had it there a week later despite my wife’s looks of disgust!
The race was a true voyage of discovery with a kick to the face, drinking half the lake and getting stuck in my wetsuit – no laughing at my T1 time, I wasn’t making a cup of tea as some have commented! But I loved it and am unquestionably hooked.
Thanks for the hints, tips and words of motivation through my tri journey so far. Forever 220! Lee Dineen
“Marshalling – what a brilliant thing to do if you can’t take part in the race. My day was an absolute blast”
220 replies: Always great to hear how we played a part in our readers’ journeys to the finish line, Lee. And even better, when we inadvertently show up at races! Wishing you all the best for your future tri adventures, and, as a subscriber, don’t forget to take advantage of our exclusive subscriberonly offers on p82.
THANKS IRONMATE MARK
I would like to say a big thank you to my coach Mark Kleanthous, who has helped me greatly improve my open-water swimming. Mark is very knowledgeable and patient, and in a very short time has helped me improve my stroke and sighting techniques, giving me the confidence to train and get up to 5km in the open water! Thank you Mark, I wish you continued success. David Bird