Chris Harris Athlete Ambassador
Chris is an age group triathlete who dreams of becoming a professional. He talks to Sundried about training and racing.
Have you always been into sport?
Yes, I have been obsessed with sport for as long as I can remember and I have tried just about every sport I can think of at some point in my life.
What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?
When I went to university, I was competing in Modern Pentathlon and I began swimming and running with members of my university triathlon team who said I should give it a go. Since my first triathlon, I never competed in Modern Pentathlon again and began dedicating all my training to triathlon, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
What’s been your favourite race to date and why?
My favourite race to date has been the Swashbuckler Middle Distance triathlon in Hampshire because of its immense beauty out on the course and the quality of the competition.
And your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement was representing GB at the age group European championships in Romania in 2019
Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?
My toughest race was pretty much a disaster and came during Ironman 70.3 Weymouth in 2017 – my first half Ironman. I was totally unprepared, I road a bike which didn’t fit properly and spent more time walking during the run than actually running! From then on I made sure I prepared as best as possible for each event I entered.
How do you overcome setbacks?
I’m not a natural runner, and I have struggled with running-related injuries a lot. To overcome these I have learned to view things more rationally. I try to put everything into perspective and stay mentally strong.
What advice do you wish you'd been given before you started competing?
Take my time! I tried to be the best I could be immediately, and rushed into more training than I could handle. I wish I had been more patient – good things come to those who learn to wait.
What are your goals?
My long term goal is to become a professional triathlete by the time I am 30 years old. I am currently 24 so I have time, but it has always been my dream to race professionally.
Who do you take your inspiration from?
I take a lot of my sporting inspiration from Lionel Sanders – a Canadian professional Ironman triathlete. He has come through dark places in his life and is now one of the most positive, honest and hard-working triathletes on the circuit and he continues to inspire me.
Outside of sport, my girlfriend inspires me with her positivity and energy towards everything she does, and it encourages me to enjoy the best parts of every situation.
What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?
My favourite part about the Sundried brand is their eco-friendly ethos and determination to be the change they want to see in the world. My favourite piece of Sundried kit is the Men’s Century Bib Shorts as they’re super comfy and aero!
