Jennifer Fernando Athlete Ambassador

Jennifer started out as a runner but discovered triathlon when cross training for injury. She talks to Sundried about training and racing. 

Have you always been into sport?

Yes, I was always the sporty one in my class and was in every sports team regardless of my ability!

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

Honestly... injury! My background is in running and I also grew up swimming but stopped at the age of 18. I've had multiple running injuries and used swimming and cycling to cross train. Eventually, I decided to bite the bullet and do a triathlon – I had no idea what I was doing!

What’s been your favourite race to date and why?

Oysterbay sprint triathlon in Whitstable. A friend from university came down with her kids to watch.

And your proudest achievement?

Qualifying to the GB age group team in my first year of coached triathlon training.

Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?

My first open water sprint triathlon at Dorney Lake was awful! I was not ready for the mass start and genuinely thought I was going to drown.

How do you overcome setbacks?

My favourite mantra is 'I can and I will' and when I have setbacks I just repeat this to myself.

What advice do you wish you'd been given before you started competing?

Ignore what everyone else is doing and just concentrate on yourself and your training.

What are your goals for 2020?

Compete for the GB age group team for the Europeans and Worlds and step up to Olympic distance triathlon.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

My coach, she has so many words of wisdom! And Mo Farah, he is always smiling and joking.

What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?

The kit is so comfortable and it looks great! The cycling bib shorts are my favourite at the moment.