Maxine Bowley - Athlete Ambassador

Have you always been into sport?

Yes, from a very early age I have always competed in some form of sport - athletics, cross country, rugby, outdoor pursuits, swimming. The list is endless. One of the main reasons I continue to do sport/exercise is to give myself the head space I need. It helps me to reflect and improve my self-esteem and cognitive function (and of course to keep fit). 

How did you first get into triathlon?

One of my previous line managers was massively into triathlon. I recall he was training a lot to compete in an Ironman. On occasions he used to drag me to some of his training sessions. I suppose this was where my interest for triathlons started thanks to him.

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?

I didn't start racing until I was 33 years old. Having a very busy full-time job and committed to other sports, time was always up against me. My favourite race has to be a work's one. The event was very much inclusive. It didn't matter whether you could swim, cycle or run, every member managed to do a leg of the triathlon. At the end of the event there were smiles all round and a real sense of achievement. 

What is your proudest achievement?

Saving someone from taking their own life. She is now married with two children and has set up her own business.

Have you ever had any sporting disasters?

Just before (2 days) a big rugby game I was selected to play in, I sustained an injury that stopped my rugby playing career. Yes I was devastated, but going through rehab I used this opportunity to pursue my chapter in Sports Therapy and coaching & mentoring.

How do you overcome setbacks?

You can't change what has happened, however you can control your reactions to what has happened. This keeps me focused on what's in front and not behind.

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

You have a tongue in your head - use it!! Never be afraid to ask questions and learn from others, but you must make your own path - you are an individual at the end of the day. Invest in yourself.

What are your goals?

My ultimate goal is to complete a half Ironman by the age of 45. 

Who inspires you?

Anyone who is coming back from a setback. A great role model for this is Mark Ormrod - a Royal Marine who got blown up in Afghanistan and lost three limbs. He continues to raise money for charity by completing really arduous events.

Why work with Sundried?

I read this on the website which got me attracted to this brand:

"How can you be a fitness and well-being brand when you are not promoting a healthy lifestyle and sustainable production? At Sundried, we do it differently."

Reading on, their culture, beliefs and ethics resonated massively with me. The brand take a lot of time investing in making a better product for the sports person in mind to help with making that person a better version of themselves. Whether that is an athlete performance or their well-being. With this brand everything is considered - cost, work-life balance for employees, ethical conscience, waste, reduced carbon footprint and much more. There is no stone left unturned with Sundried.

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