T100 Triathlon London, 10 Aug 2025

Swim 2K, Bike 80K, Run 18K

Swim - 2 x 1km laps 

The swim was probably my weakest discipline out of the three as I hadn’t trained enough with long distance swimming. I had a last minute swimming lesson a few days before which helped me to work on some of my weaknesses and also to use the techniques as a focus when in the water if I became flustered due to the amount of people swimming around me. I eventually got into the water at the Excel centre and got into the swim. It took me a while to get into a good rhythm, trying to pace myself and remain consistent with my breathing. It was an Aussie exit so I took that time to prepare for re-entering the water. I felt the second lap was paced better and I got into my stride. Once I finished I went into the first transition to prepare for the bike.

Bike - 3 x 26.7km laps

I was relieved to get on the bike after the swim. This was where I could really see improvements in my cycling with breathing, pacing and consistency. I also paid more attention to nutrition throughout the bike. The course was flat with a closed road route which made it a nice smooth ride. I was able to maintain a reasonable pace throughout. I had thought about the importance of not using all of my energy as I still had the run to do and it was a hot day. Also I focussed on enjoying the moment, taking in the London landmarks as I cycled along the River Thames up to Tower Bridge, not allowing negative thoughts about feeling tired and achy come into my mind.

Run - 5 x 3.6km laps

Once I finished the bike I prepared myself for the run. The course was busy with spectators which really helped. At first I thought that five laps was a lot, but soon got into it. I was concerned with the run that my energy was going to crash, however this didn’t happen which really pleased me. I put this down to a few things. Good nutrition throughout the day, not going ‘all out’ on the bike, saving energy for the run, but also having a decent training plan thanks to Catenary Coaching which has over time built my resilience within the bike and run. As the run went on it was becoming hotter. I stopped at the water/food stations and maintained a good fluid intake also cooling down with water and ice provided. I had noticed that half way through the run my feet were becoming quite painful, which I chose to ignore. This ended up being two swollen and bruised toes. I paced myself during the run maintaining a regular pace until the end.

Overall

I was really pleased with my time overall. I was almost the slowest swimmer, but I expected that and I have work to do with the swim. The bike was so enjoyable being in such a wonderful location with so many athletes. I was quicker than my estimated time for finishing the bike and with energy still in the tank which felt like real progress for me. I was most happy with the run because I knew after doing the Hever Castle Tri last year, which is a half Ironman distance, my run was poor. This was partly down to an injury but also I was not prepared for it. This time I was, and I was able to keep a regular pace throughout the run only slowing to get water/nutrition. I would say I felt more in control of it which in turn gave me the strength to finish. I have been training with Tim at Catenary Coaching and I have really felt this has benefitted my overall fitness and stamina.

Collette Waterfield