Rachel Fleet - Athlete Ambassador

Rachel is a paramedic who competes in triathlons. She talks to Sundried about training and racing.

Have you always been into sport?

So I really got into sport when I started my paramedic training about four years ago. My paramedic mentor was big into sport and was in Ironman training at the time, and encouraged me to start out training. I found it was a great release between working shifts and coursework. I started with running and sea swimming with a group in Charlestown each weekend, and then started to cycle when I qualified last year. I did the Tavistock Triathlon Standard distance as my first triathlon event. 

If you are interested in starting your journey into the world of 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?

My favourite event to date so far has to be the Tavistock Triathlon as it was my first triathlon event, and taught me so much about how I could improve on my style, technique and fitness. Either that or the Hokey Cokey Swimrun Charlestown. This race had incredible views, atmosphere and the sea swim was so warm with crystal clear vis with lots of barrel jellies!

What is your proudest achievement?

I have many proud achievements and always love the proud feeling when you finish any race. But one that stands out for me was an event organised informally by friends, with some decent water support. The goal was to swim the 6 kilometres from Charlestown harbour to Polkerris Harbour. I was really keen to do this but unfortunately couldn’t swap out of a night shift the night before. The event started at 8AM and I came off shift at 7AM from starting at 7PM the night before, but I knew I would regret it if I didn’t do it. So with half an hour sleep and fuelling over night on shift, I completed this event in great time and pace. I was very proud!

Have you ever had any racing disasters?

On my triathlon my chain came off on a downhill, I looked down and ended up upside down in the ditch. Fixed my chain but didn’t realise I’d wiped my face, so unknowingly had chain oil all over my face for every single picture! 

How do you overcome setbacks?

I used to be someone who held onto setbacks and allowed this to affect my confidence and performance. Now, I just know that those feelings won’t last forever and I use that energy whilst exercising to fuel myself to make me go faster. 

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

When I first started out, I wish someone had told me that it doesn’t matter if you place in a race and it doesn’t matter if you walk up that hill..just use that pain today to make you stronger tomorrow! 

What are your goals?

My goal is to complete Ironman New Zealand. But this year I want to complete the Dartmoor Classic Medio, and several Cornish triathlons. 

Who inspires you?

I generally take my inspiration from people around me, the normal people who try to fit their exercise around heavy shift work. Those who remain positive and motivated in everything they do whilst keeping up great sporting achievements. 

Why work with Sundried?

Sundried was the first proper brand of sportswear I wore. There are brands you buy that ruin easily and ones you know are great quality, with time taken to carefully package and look after their customers - Sundried is one of these quality brands. I love the eco friendly twist, as living in Cornwall it’s so appropriate and a huge aspect of life down here. The aesthetics are gorgeous and definitely stand out, the range of gear is ever changing and very popular. There’s a lot this brand is going to do, and I feel so proud being a part of it.

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