Dana Machakova - Athlete Ambassador
Have you always been into sport?
Yes. I used to play Basketball and tennis. I love sport and I teach a lot of classes as a fitness instructor.
How did you first get into triathlon?
My very old friend decided to do sprint Triathlon but he had very bad car accident and could not walk or run for years. On his behalf I decided to do triathlon and I fall in love. I was runner who always loved swim. Bike was problem :-) I joined local triathlon club and start working on my swim technique. My first triathlon was Olympic distance in 2015.
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?
Ironman Bolton 2016 (So far the biggest challenge I have done and I was working really hard. It meant a lot for me to finish it) My whole life for months was just training, eating and sleeping.
What is your proudest achievement?
Ironman 2016 and GB Team Denmark 2017
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
Two weeks before Denmark in 2017 I had full anaesthetic and went for surgery. There was no chance I would be ready and healed for a race but I took a risk and competed. There was high risk of sepsis. Looking back today.. I was crazy and stupid but I was new in the sport and I just wanted compete it.
How do you overcome setbacks?
I would say I'm extremely stubborn and determined. If I put my mind in to something I would do anything to succeed and never give up. Even if that mean to be last or lost but Just never give up. Also being very positive and not dramatising things always helps me.
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
I got a lot of advice but I wasn't listening. Main and true was... It's only sport and we are no PRO ( I can see it now ).
What are your goals?
Get back to long distance and compete Ironman in Czech Republic where all my family can come and support me. I have a picture in my head...crossing finish line and my daughter is running towards me. Stay healthy, fit and strong for my daughter.
Who inspires you?
My first big inspiration was my 64 years old friend who wanted to do Triathlon. I was 30 years old and thought myself... he is so brave!! I found a big inspiration in the book of Chrissie Wellington.
Why work with Sundried?
Sundried is a great brand which I didn't know and I'm happy and very excited to use and test their products. I love the kit which fit and didn't rub or move around the body. The materials are ECO friendly and I really admire any company to work around the nature and keep our planet healthy. Great bonus is that it's totally affordable. Training kit can be very expensive.
I'm very proud to be part of great British company and I will do my best to represent you well.
To hear more from our ambassadors and get free tips on workout plans and more, connect with the Sundried Personal Trainers on our app.
