Jodie Bennett Athlete Ambassador
Jodie got into fitness as a way of losing weight but soon developed a true love for it. She talks to Sundried about racing highs and lows.
Have you always been into sport?
No, I haven’t always been into sport. Approximately 3 and a half years ago was when I started my journey. I was previously very overweight and exercise was initially just to help me lose weight. But then I fell in love with it and so it has continued and become one of the biggest parts of me.
What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?
After losing a bit of weight, I wanted a challenge that was different to your usual 5km/10km races. I wanted to try something completely different.. so I signed up for a super sprint triathlon as my goal. I used to be a synchronised swimmer when I was younger so thought I’d be ok with the swimming aspect.
What’s been your favourite race to date and why?
That’s a difficult one; every race is great for its own reason. I guess I’d have to go with Eton Sprint Triathlon at Dorney Lake. What was once a summer Olympics venue, the lake and track is great! The atmosphere at the event has spectators all along the course which encourages you round and the set up is great. I’ve done it a few times now.
And your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement has to be the London to Brighton 100km ultra marathon - hardest thing I’ve ever done and said I’d never do it again! Although I probably would now!
Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?
Yes! An unfortunate one, I was in the lake waiting for the klaxon to sound. Once it did, someone accidentally kicked me in the stomach and winded me. Unfortunately, this was a qualifying race for me, and as you can imagine the swim was extremely unpleasant and the rest that followed wasn’t great either.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Setbacks happen, injuries happen, life happens. Injuries can be frustrating and impact on your training but taking the time to let things settle is the right way otherwise you end up set back for longer. Lots of us have been there.
Also, if a setback occurs during a race, I just think to myself, "it’s about finishing and getting round rather than a time-based race."
What are your goals?
There is a plan for a solo 50km ultra in the late summer and one socially-distanced triathlon that I will do to just enjoy the sport. Let’s look forward to 2021!
Who do you take your inspiration from?
Inspiration for me comes from everyone. I love being able to see and share all things that people have achieved, it inspires me for new training and challenges. The Brownlee brothers were also a bit of an inspiration coming from so close to my home village.
What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?
I’m really glad to have found a British brand that was founded by someone who knows what athletes want to wear and the good quality to feel comfortable when training. Currently the cycling top is my fave bit of kit, it’s so comfortable and with pockets. I still have much more to try myself.
