Mike Harris Athlete Ambassador
Mike used to race superbikes but has since found a passion for triathlon. He talks to Sundried about training and racing.
Have you always been into sport?
I have never been able to sit still. I cannot spend the day at home on the couch watching TV. I have always been involved in various sports, both team and individual, most recently triathlon.
What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?
My teammate from Superbike racing entered a triathlon and asked me if I would do it too. We made a weekend of it and got bitten by the triathlon bug.
What’s been your favourite race to date and why?
The Alpe d'Huez triathlon. Climbing 1300m over 13km and running at altitude was very challenging, but what a sense of achievement crossing the finish line
And your proudest achievement?
Winning my Age Group and getting a Top 10 overall at the 5150 Bela Bela Ironman triathlon in 2019.
Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?
Not for triathlon, but when I was racing superbikes, getting taken out while leading was not something I want to remember.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Get back to the drawing board, set yourself new goals and make sure they are achievable with small milestones along the way.
What advice do you wish you'd been given before you started competing?
Go out there and have fun. Race day nerves always take over, but remember why you are there and enjoy every moment of it.
What are your goals for 2020?
2020 will be a different year for me as I am focusing on smaller triathlons (Olympic and sprint). Moving to the UK will be an adjustment weather-wise and I'm looking to build on my strength and stability while finding my feet. I would like to tick off some half marathons in different countries too.
Who do you take your inspiration from?
My old superbike teammate and coach who has lost 40kg/90lbs/6 stone. He went through a lot to get where he is today, but it shows that if you have a strong mind and a positive attitude, anything is possible.
What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?
The product range is really awesome, it's everything you need. I love the professional aero trisuit, I can't wait for a photo in mine!
