Ian Brewer - Athlete Ambassador
Have you always been into sport?
Yes - sport has always been a HUGE part of my life. I started playing rugby at 5 and went onto play semi professionally and also played international age group hockey. While playing both rugby and hockey I enjoyed the fitness process and that started my enjoyment for running. As my rugby and hockey days reduced I increased running and started road cycling and mountain biking. This led to racing in triathlons and off road duathlons. I love the competitive element of racing but also the challenge of completing these races, especially the longer distance events. In my working life I am a Physiotherapist and have worked within various professional sports over the last 15 years.
How did you first get into triathlon?
As a keen runner and cyclist triathlons just naturally happened. I cycled with a group of old school friends and we all got involved at a similar time and had great fun competing in triathlons together.
If you are interested in getting into Triathlon, Sundried's kit is suitable for beginners as well as seasoned athletes. We have both men's and women's options available.
What has been your favourite race to date and why?
Favourite race was an Olympic distance triathlon based in Croyde, Devon. The swim set the tone, as it was carried out on a beach well renowned for surfing and the waves on race day were huge. This was followed up by a tough bike and then a gruelling 10k run over the coastal footpaths. It was the physical and mental challenge that I loved the most in some of the most breathtaking scenery ever.
What is your proudest achievement?
Within sport - playing international hockey. Career wise - working with some of the worlds best cricketers on the planet. Personally - my 3 children and wife
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
No major racing disasters, just a lot of cramp during my first 1/2 Ironman when getting off the bike and starting the 1/2 marathon! Also mis-counting during my first ever triathlon in the pool and doing an extra 2 lengths - I was gutted!
How do you overcome setbacks?
Setbacks are part of life and how you approach them mentally is crucial. Having had to have spinal surgery in 2020 and not being able to walk further than 50m at a time, I had to mentally prepare myself for the whole rehab process. The best thing for me was making small manageable goals to try and achieve. These small steps, put together, lead to big improvements and resulted in me back swimming, cycling, running and doing everything I want to do again without any physical restrictions.
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
Take care of the small stuff and make sure you do not neglect your strength training. Strong = better performance and lower injury risks.
What are your goals?
Enjoyment and training/racing with friends.
Who inspires you?
My wife and children.
Why work with Sundried?
I love all their clothing - it is high quality and long lasting, and with 3 young children, a brand who is so focused on sustainability was massive to me. We all need to be responsible with everything we do to look after our planet for our future generations.
To hear more from our ambassadors and get free tips on workout plans and more, connect with the Sundried Personal Trainers on our app.
