Elizabeth Cahill Athlete Ambassador
Elizabeth is a professional dressage rider but also excels in cycling and running. She talks to Sundried about a life in sport.
Have you always been into sport?
I have always been into sport yes. Since primary school I have always swum, been in the netball and athletic teams and ridden horses. Cycling came a bit later, when I was 18 my dad asked if I wanted to cycle London to Paris and after that I was sold.
How did you first get into triathlon?
I am yet to do my first triathlon and hoping to do one early next year. My love of running and cycling made it the next logical step. But also I love a challenge and the idea of doing an Ironman or half Ironman is something I find really exciting. Pushing my body and mind beyond my expectations.
What's been your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement within sport is cycling London to Paris 6 times. My proudest achievement within my career (dressage) and life is coming back from a potentiality career-changing accident and coming 8th at national championships.
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
I’ve had a few small tumbles and injuries within cycling and running which have set me backwards at times. But my biggest setback and accident was riding a horse which reared up and fell on me breaking my pelvis in 5 places. This left me in a wheelchair for 6 weeks and then crutches after that. Although it was bad at the time it made me so much stronger and more determined than I ever was and is partly responsible for me wanting to take on triathlon as I never want to be held back again.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Overcoming setbacks can be difficult, especially when only time and rest are the answer. However, sometimes you have to remind yourself to be kind to yourself as in the long run it will pay off. I’m also a strong believer that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger and turning setbacks into a stronger frame of mind; more determined, focused and ferocious.
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
Advice I wish I was given: your body is only as strong as you mind. And just give it a go!
What are your goals?
My goals within triathlon are to do an Olympic distance next year and then turn my focus to half Ironman. My goals within dressage are to get my 4 year old out to some competitions and compete elementary with my more experienced horse as soon as competitions recommence.
Who inspires you?
Who inspires me: the people around me. The everyday person who puts on their trainers or their cleats and gives it a go.
Why work with Sundried?
There are a number of reasons why I chose to work with Sundried but I think the most important ones are their consideration and action towards the environment. Working with recycled materials and biodegradable fabrics in order to make a difference to our planet. Also I believe the quality of the products is brilliant. They have truly been made with the athlete in mind in there comfort, technicality, and look.
