Matt Leeman Triathlete

Matt is a young triathlete who followed his father's footsteps into the sport. He talks to Sundried about life as a triathlete.

Have you always been into sport?

I was lucky to have had access to a variety of sports growing up so have always had some sort of sport going on. 

What made you decide to enter triathlon?

My dad is an accomplished triathlete so decided to give one ago.

What’s been your best race to date?

I’d have to say winning my second half iron distance race (Castle Howard 2014), beating established pros and past winners of big domestic races.

And your proudest achievement?

Graduating from Loughborough University

Have you ever had any racing disasters / your toughest race yet?

My first iron distance race was a baptism of fire. I had mainly been training for half distance and with it being my first crack at the distance it was a steep learning curve. It was a tough day out, but I finished in 9hrs 31.

How do you overcome setbacks?

Think back to all the hard work I’ve put in over the years and remember it doesn’t disappear overnight. 

What is the best bit of advice you wish someone had told you before you started competing?

How hard you need to train to be the best.

What are your goals for 2017?

Podium at both the half and full Outlaw, going sub 9 hours at the full.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

Nobody in particular, but I admire any successful person or athlete that puts the effort in to be at the top of their game and handle the pressure that comes with it and still performs.

What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?

Being from Essex it’s a local brand which is something very unique. Your race suit is arguably one of the most important bits of kit you need for a triathlon, as you will be in it the duration of the race. The Sundried skinsuit is flexible and well fitted, for me these are the two most important qualities to help you go fast.