Jacob Marklew - Athlete Ambassador
Have you always been into sport?
I have always been into sport from a young age, with my family being very sports orientated. I got my first bike aged 3, and started competing in triathlons aged 6 with my dad being into his triathlons and running.
How did you first get into triathlon?
I got into Triathlon when I was at University, being at Leeds Met University, where they have one of the best training centres in the UK. I then took a job at IRONMAN Triathlon where I have worked in logistics for the past 7 years, and here my interest in triathlon grew exponentially.
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?
My favourite race I have competed in was the Blenheim Palace Triathlon Weekend Warrior. This triathlon was to compete over 2 days to see how many Sprint Triathlons you can complete across the course of the 2 days. I completed 7 within the 2 days, finishing 30th overall and 4th in the M25-29 age group in a total time of 12 hours and 28 minutes to complete all 7 sprint triathlons.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement was completing Land's End to John O'Groats cycling challenge (872mi) in 4 days and 18 hours, riding solo, unsupported in 2019. I raised over £2,800.
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
None that come to mind.
How do you overcome setbacks?
The way I overcome setbacks is reviewing what happened and what went wrong, but to motivate myself to keep training and moving forwards. I get myself entered into an event or race to keep me motivated, or mix up my training schedule to make it more fun. Another great way for me to overcome any setbacks is to have people around me who I can train with and who will lift me up and help me overcome any setbacks.
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
Enjoy yourself, there's nothing worse than when you're starting out in triathlon to have training turn into a chore. I would recommend finding a balance of sessions which you enjoy, join a club and get out and train with like-minded people whilst having some fun at the same time.
What are your goals?
My goal is to complete an IRONMAN triathlon in under 10.5 hours and to complete a marathon in under 3 hours.
Who inspires you?
My inspiration growing up has always been my dad, he's now a visually impaired athlete who has competed for GB. He currently holds the T13 disabled record for the marathon and is a very determined person. He has done a lot for me with my sport and has pushed me where I needed it to get to where I am now. I also get inspired by Jan Frodeno with all he has achieved and his drive and determination to succeed.
Why work with Sundried?
Sundried is a great company which has the environment in mind with what they do. They also have a great collection of cycling, running and triathlon kit and equipment which is good high quality and stylish designs. They have a great community of people and it would be an honour to be part of that.
To hear more from our ambassadors and get free tips on workout plans and more, connect with the Sundried Personal Trainers on our app.
