How did you feel about competing in this iconic and historic race.?

It was nice to compete in a well established race with lots of support out on the course, in front of iconic scenery. 

What were your thoughts about racing at the shorter distance after predominantly racing Ironman. ?

I quite enjoy the shorter triathlons as I can really test my pace and do it quickly, rather than a longer race which requires lots of time on the bike. 

How have you found the training getting ready for a different type of race?

I used the Windsor triathlon to get me ready for the middle distance that I’m doing in July. I used it to check that my nutrition was spot on for a longer race. It’s been nice to train lower volume, which has meant I’ve had my weekends throughout the spring/summer. 

How was the swim as the first part of the race you have to go against the flow?

The first 1000m was downstream, so I took Rich’s advice and sat in the middle where the current was the strongest. I didn’t really notice the flow until I turned back upstream, and could really feel it against me. I moved over to the bank where the current isn’t strong, and just pushed myself. 

How hard did you push on the bike compared to the longer distances you’ve been used too.?

I really tried to push hard on the bike. I was trying to complete the 40km in around 1:10/1:15. With it being open roads, there was a bit of traffic, which was frustrating at the time, but I made up for it by pushing hard in the quieter sections. I really enjoyed going faster on this shorter distance race. 

How did the 10k run feel running through the Windsor streets and also on the long road at Windsor castle?

It was a flat, three loop course with quite a short but steep uphill, per lap. The support out on the streets in Windsor was brilliant, and it cool running down the long walk. 

Was there big crowds cheering you on?

Yeah there were a lot of crowds during the run, which is great support and kept me going on a hot day. 

What would you do different in the race if you done it again?

If I were to do this race again, I would nail a can of coke in T1 to reset my stomach, after taking it dirty Thames water. For the bike, I would try and get into an earlier wave so that the roads were much quieter. I was Sunday racking, which meant I was one of the last waves. 

What tips could you give any other budding triathletes wanting to compete at Windsor?

Don’t do this triathlon, unless you are prepared to be really poorly the days following the triathlon due to contaminated water. Such a shame as I enjoyed the race but not the aftermath.