How was your training in the lead up to this race?

Training went well, I was feeling strong and my run throughs confirmed my overall fitness.

What was your most difficult stage?

In this event, it was the rower, as I judge it wrong and pulled too early, the last pull took me to 8m short, of 750m which meant I had to pull a few more strokes in order to reach the required distance. It was a school boy error on my part. 

What were your thoughts on preparing for the last race racing Kiddy and Tracey.

It was great racing with two other competitors and having 3 lanes made the race even more exciting.

How are you enjoying the Series and what benefits do you think it brings to your training

I love it and can’t imagine competing in anything else at the moment; it has allowed me to develop and enhance my strength whilst also improving my endurance and speed.   

Do you feel tempted towards CrossFit?

No, I am enjoying X-Training as it allows me to focus on strength and conditioning and cardio.

What has been your reaction at school?

I find it difficult sometimes with the attention that my achievements bring and always find it easier if a third party highlights my performance. Stu Leng has been instrumental in contacting the local newspapers which has raised the profile of my achievements within the school community. Parents are very supportive and keen to know how successful I have been in each competition. Our profile of school sport and physical activity has increased and I have led circuit training, athletics and rugby sessions with my pupils, who are all keen to get involved and participate.

As an ambassador do you feel there is more to be done to get more women involved?

Yes, it’s always good to get people involved in X-Training. This will vary in gyms and depends on what gyms do, to encourage their clients to participate in this type of training and competition. There needs to be more of ‘have a go’ attitude and help people to develop confidence in their abilities. With more events having Novice categories, this should encourage new people to the sport.

How would you do this?

I am always encouraging other women to participate in X-Training events and we are beginning to see an increase in participation. Stu Leng holds two X-Training sessions a week at Pf2 gym and the majority of participants are women. More gyms need to hold these types of classes in order to raise the profile and encourage their members to have a go!

Is there something you want to say to the organisers?

Sponsorship for each event/series is required in order to keep competitors motivated. Bobby McVitie did a great job this year at MaxiFit by securing sponsorship, which provided quality training vests and prize money. Organisers need to approach sports companies, magazines, supplement companies etc in order to gain sponsorship for each event.

Ask competitors what they want, maybe a small online survey for competitors to complete in order to move X-Training forward. It’s important to know what competitors want, they are the customers.  

Whats next?

Preston is my next race. I am constantly striving to be better and achieve new personal bests. This is what keeps me motivated and challenged.