Mark Klein - Athlete Ambassador

Have you always been into sport?

Absolutely! Sport has been part of my life since I was born as a West Ham fan and it was fuelled by my multi-sport parents! Having a younger brother only helped and kept me on my toes!

How did you first get into triathlon?

I was getting a bit bored (and not getting any better!) playing football so wanted to try something different. It was around the time of the 2012 London Olympics so a good period to take up the sport.

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?

Tough one. I've enjoyed the middle and full distance Ironmans but nowhere near as much as Alpe D'Huez long course, Escape from Alcatraz and Otillo SwimRun Engadin. They were awesome races but I think Celtman was the best - brutal day out but absolutely stunning scenery and a massive sense of achievement.

What is your proudest achievement?

Other than seeing my two children develop into fine young kids, perhaps accompanying my 70 year old Mum up and down Ben Nevis in daylight without killing each other!

Have you ever had any racing disasters?

No massive embarrassments I think. I've forgotten my race belt going out on the bike once and got told to go back and put it on which cost me over a minute - probably took me from 165th to 187th! I had a little underwater wrestle with another swimmer during that same race and realised after about 30 seconds it was actually my brother! I sat on his feet for the rest of the swim as compensation!

How do you overcome setbacks?

Sulk, moan and be grumpy for 24 hours and then dust myself off and go on the attack again with a bit between my teeth.

What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?

Stick to football.

What are your goals?

Times and age group teams don't motivate me in the slightest. Other than to stay healthy and injury free, my goal is to hopefully continue to be fortunate enough to be able to travel and experience alternative endurance events in places around the world.

Who inspires you?

My wife and children, 3 amazing individuals in their own right.

Why work with Sundried?

We share similar beliefs in being passionate and dedicated in our own profession coupled with trying to do as much as we can about protecting the environment. We both espouse a healthy lifestyle and that is my number one aim working with junior triathletes and athletes.

To hear more from our ambassadors and get free tips on workout plans and more, connect with the Sundried Personal Trainers on our app.