How I See It

The Start Line : where nothing else matters but you and your mindset

This month I have been coaching for 23 years. Before that I did a few races also. 3 Ironmans, multiple half Ironmans, ultra runs, bike racing etc etc.

The number of athletes that I have taken to Ironman success is in the hundreds now. From Pro podiums to Kona qualifications to multiple finishers to first timers.

Here is what I have learnt matters the most.

Keep it simple :

More than ever we have information at our finger tips. The information feels nice to have but it doesn’t replace experiencing it yourself. You have to trust your instincts. Keeping in simple means pulling it back (in triathlon terms) to swim, get changed and onto your bike, ride, get changed, run. Eat and drink to your plan. Pace youself. That simplicity will help you a LOT as you lead into the race.

Get your head right :

How you take your mind to the start line is how you will race. Get it ready to race by staying positive and confident. Sounding fearful deflects pressure at the time but you are filling your mind with fear and that comes back at you. Just be quietly confident. You have done the work, now you stay relaxed and happy and go do your thing.

Don’t overcook yourself with too much thinking. Arrive on the start line relaxed, happy and fresh mentally.

Be organised but not over-organised :

Read the instructions and follow them. Check things once you have done them and then get onto the next thing. Trust your systems and your thinking.

Patience matters :

Rushing towards the finish line on the day leads you away from process. Set the engine on the right revs for you and your race plan, keep the fuel tank topped up …. and just keep going.