WHY I T RY
From tries to tri, Shane Williams’ love for Ironman Wales shows no sign of dwindling
It was my last year playing rugby in Japan in 2015 and I wanted a challenge. The London Marathon was on my bucket list and I managed to crawl around. The atmosphere, crowd and having to dig deep made me think it’s something I can get into.
A friend of mine sponsored Ironman Wales and said he’d give me a place if I’d do it for charity. I said ‘yes’, then did my research. I’d never heard of Ironman. People asked whether I could bike and swim. I’d just bought a road bike and couldn’t swim four lengths of my local baths. They replied: ‘Look Shane, you better start training!’
It was my first triathlon. Not advisable. It’s relentless. I tore my ankle ligaments two months before and physically and mentally it drained me. If it wasn’t for my family being there and kicking me up the backside, I’d probably have stopped. I promised l’d go back in 12 months, better my time and enjoy the experience more. That’s what I’ve done every year since.
One of my favourite things about Ironman Wales is the support. Lining up on the beach, ACDC blasting and everyone giving you a pat on the back as if they know you. On the run they’re 10 deep giving high fives and pushing me along. It’s the closest I’m going to get to playing in front of 70,000 at the Millennium again – it gives me goosebumps talking about it.
I thought triathlon was an individual sport. I assumed I’d be out for six hours on the bike on my own, but it’s become social for me. I look forward to the group rides, runs and swims with friends.
I’m 44 now, and the thought of losing fitness frightens me. Triathlon is a great sport in that sense. It’s also about having fun and raising money for Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff.
There are a lot of ex-rugby players who do Ironman. From Gareth Thomas to John Davies, who was a prop and about 24 stone. All the boys are the same. We were competitors for a long time, pro sportspeople who didn’t like losing – and I don’t think you ever lose that. My aim is to beat these guys. There are always bragging rights, but always a beer afterwards.
I’d love to do Hawaii one day. If I was to do it, give me 24 months’ notice to train my socks off to get anywhere near the time needed. Will it happen? Watch this space.
When I got into tri I wore different brands and looked like a rainbow. Lockdown gave me time to think, and it was suggested I start my own clothing range. Gold, black and white are the colours of my old side Ospreys, and the brand is called Agilis. We’re creating a tri-suit. I’m not going to pretend it’ll make me win Ironman, but it doesn’t hurt to look good on a bike!
“Racing Ironman is the closest I’m going to get to playing in front of 70,000 at the Millennium again”