Simon Pilcher Athlete Ambassador

Simon is an age group triathlete who wants to compete at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships. He talks to Sundried about racing highs and lows.

Have you always been into sport?

Yes, I’ve been into sport since I was a child. I loved anything and everything that involved running or a ball. I played football semi-professionally until my mid 20s then switched to running due to work commitments.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

I got into triathlon after racing a few duathlons and wanted to go the whole hog and did my first triathlon in early 2017.

What’s been your favourite race to date and why?

My favourite race to date would be the European Championship Middle Distance Duathlon in Viborg, Denmark earlier this year. I placed 7th in my age group and it was amazing to race because I was putting myself up against some amazing athletes.

And your proudest achievement?

My proudest sporting achievement is definitely completing my first Ironman 70.3 race less than a year after learning to swim. It was something I never thought I would be able to do.

Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?

I’ve been really lucky and haven’t had any real huge disasters during races and I hope that continues. My toughest race was Rat Race Coast to Coast which covers 105 miles across Scotland by means of running, cycling, and kayaking with the final long run up over Ben Nevis. I got my fuelling all wrong that day and almost didn’t get over the finish line because I was utterly exhausted.

How do you overcome setbacks?

I stay positive about what I’m doing and realise there will be ups and downs along the way. Just keep working hard and enjoy what you do and you have far more good days than bad ones!

What advice do you wish you'd been given before you started competing?

Have patience and stay consistent in your training, it doesn’t happen overnight. Consistency works wonders!

What are your goals for 2020?

My big goals for 2020 are to break 34:30 for 10k and go sub 1:18 for the half marathon. I'll also try hard to get a qualifying slot for the 2021 Ironman 70.3 World Championships.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

That’s a tough one. There are so many people who lead busy lives but still compete at a high level, I find them very inspiring. Also, I coach junior triathletes so there’s plenty of inspiration there watching them training and competing.

What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite piece of kit?

I really like the eco friendly nature of Sundried’s kit which is important now more than ever along with the great quality too.The Aero skinsuit is my favourite piece of kit. Awesome customer service helps too!