FLYERS VS IM WALES

Sunday 11 September saw 2,000 athletes battle Ironman Wales including the Wiggle X Hoka Flyers. On a choppy and, at times, rainy day in Tenby, our crew all finished their year-long journey by crossing the finish line. Here’s how they got on plus their essential tips…

PAULINE GREEN

The hills were relentless but the support was incredible – even in the driving rain the hardy Welsh continued to ring their bells. On the run, the hill up out of Tenby was cruel but there at the top was coach Rob Cheetham. ‘You’re first in your age-group,’ he cheered. ‘Keep steady, keep conservative, you’ve got it!’ The zig-zag through town was endless and then the sign for the finish. Down the red carpet and over the line in 15:52:58. I’d not only conquered the Welsh Dragon but qualified for Kona 2023!”

GERAINT JONES

The bad weather and suggestions of cancellation had the whole team on edge, so it was a relief to get to race day. We were up at 3:50am, which was worth it just to hear the crowds sing the Welsh anthem. It was emotional. After a good swim and strong start to the bike, my stomach began doing cartwheels, resulting in a portaloo stop. But I was happy with 12:01:29.”

LISA STOCKDALE

A beautiful sunrise quickly turned into extremely choppy waters and people being pulled out of the swim. My nutrition on the bike was good (the tip of malt loaf and honey was appreciated) but I didn’t drink enough so started the run with a dehydration headache. Seawaterderived nausea meant lots of walking come the run and a finish of 14:04:59!”

SIM GILL

The sea was choppy as hell and I just didn’t have the skill set to deal with it without impacting my time. I came out 20mins down on my goal time but with a body full of sea water. Stomach issues ensued and I didn’t have extra nutrition to compensate. By the time I reached the run, I was super depleted. But I made it in 15:16:01!”