Anastasiia Hetman Athlete Ambassador

Anastasiia is a triathlete who has her sights set on competing in Kona. She talks to Sundried about life as a long-distance triathlete.

Have you always been into sport?

Yes, I can say that most of my life has been devoted to sports. My parents were both athletes and I decided that I should try to be one too.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

My mum started a triathlon club and encouraged me to try it. Despite the fact that I had no idea what triathlon was or what I would have to do! I went to the first training session and was hooked from there.

What’s been your favourite race to date and why?

My favourite race is the Middle Distance National Championship. I competed in this format for the first time recently and I really liked it; I even managed to take a second place finish. I think I'm going to transition from shorter distances to full Ironman.

And your proudest achievement?

I am proud of my success at middle distance. For me, it was a challenge that I successfully achieved.

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

Throughout my sports career I have not had any injuries and I have never had an accident at a competition. I am very lucky!

How do you overcome setbacks?

Any setback is, first of all, an opportunity to stop and look at yourself from a different perspective and think in which direction to move on. I try to understand  my failure in order to prevent mistakes again in the future.

What advice do you wish you'd been given before you started competing?

Struggle to the bitter end! Pain is temporary, triumph is eternal.

What are your goals?

To qualify for the Ironman World Championships in Kona.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

I am inspired by competition and travel; triathlon gives me both . I like to go to new places and discover new routes. I also like to follow the results of the Brownlee brothers, I consider them the best triathletes.

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

I like the affordable prices and quality clothes. Most of all I like the cycling collections and the women's trisuit.