Ben Chips Athlete Ambassador
Ben is a CrossFitter who discovered a passion for triathlon. He talks to Sundried about his journey.
Have you always been into sport?
Yes, I was involved in sport from an early age, I played tennis and rode horses from the age of three. I only really started competing at 16 until then I was happy to just be involved. I suddenly realized in 6th form I was better than I had previously thought. Only recently did I have to turn away from rugby due to injury, the diversity this has created in my training is immense and I really enjoying learning from different sports and training systems.
How did you first get into triathlon?
Over lockdown I was looking to work on my aerobic base for my CrossFit training. Having bought a road bike and started running regularly I now want to do a triathlon next year.
What has been your favourite race to date and why?
Yet to race, but looking forward to Ironman 70.3 in Luxembourg (provided we can do it).
What is your proudest achievement?
Playing an International Rugby League fixture against Ghana for the GB Students.
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
No but looking forward to them, I am yet to have a flat tire so can only imagine the universe is saving that for a special day.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Don't over think them, use your resources to manage them and crack on. Life is full of set backs and often we can't change them, we can only do our best to manage our way toward the next best outcome.
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
Eat more, and don't look at new bikes...
What are your goals?
To one day complete an Ironman.
Who inspires you?
Sonny Bill Williams, he is a superb athlete. He competes in both codes of rugby. He came from humble beginnings and at first went down the route of partying and drinking in his spare time. He soon levelled out and focused on his career and the example he was setting as an athlete. He is a tough competitor (still playing for the All Blacks at the age of 35) but also humble.
One of his most memorable moments was when he handed over his World Cup winners medal to a young fan that had invaded the pitch. Sonny took him from the security guards, embraced him and escorted the child back to his parents before putting his Gold medal around the fan's neck.
'My toughest opponent? Probably myself, mentally.' - Sonny Bill Williams
Why work with Sundried?
I was introduced to Sundried by my Girlfriend Sophie Bankes, she was always saying how good the gear is, I am now addicted to their cycling socks. being a newbie to cycling and triathlon its great to see a brand that provide quality equipment at an affordable price.
