Athlete: Claire Slater
How long have you been in Triathlon: My first Triathlon was the Women’s Only enticer, in 2014. I was encouraged to give it a go post my first half Marathon. Although I struggled to swim 50m in one hit, I was hooked instantly. I once said I would never do an Ironman though… Two years later I did!
What is your back ground: I have always been relatively healthy and active, however never very sporty. In 2013 I decided I wanted to get into the gym and start running. I began with the App ‘Couch to 5km’… within 6months I ran my first half marathon. I got my first road bike 2 weeks before my first triathlon.
Greatest achievement outside Triathlon: Outside of Triathlon I am a Primary School teacher and mum of teenagers!
Why do you do Triathlon: I love a challenge and the sense of achievement. I never imaged I would be a triathlete. In the past year I have travelled interstate and internationally to race and the experience and adventure that accompanies that is exciting. I hope to inspire my children (my own and those I teach) to know that when you are determined, committed and have a passion, that anything is possible.
What attracted you to F4L: I was in a situation where the coach I had at the time was moving on to new pastures, so I had to find someone new. My previous coach thought I would do well with the additional support of a squad and face-to-face coach. Funnily enough, I had been picked up off the side of the road by head coach, Paul Jones, just three weeks before this happened. My past coach recommended just this person to be my coach. The initial consult and first training session was enough for me to know that Paul would be committed and focused with the intention of making my journey worthwhile and enjoyable. 18months later I know I am not wrong.
What are your targets: Ultimately I want to be the best I can. I love travelling to places to race. Being a part of the Challenge World Championships in Samorin this year was amazing – an experience of a life time. I want to do this again. Swimming is like a personal nightmare for me… I want to be comfortable, confident and relaxed in the water.
But if I was entirely honest – one day, yes one day, Kona is my dream.
Sum up F4L (in one line!): F4L is dedicated and devoted to providing training programs that will take you to heights (and places) so that you can reach goals you never imagine possible.
Online Triathlon Coaching
Paul is a professional full time coach who offers a comprehensive coaching service for triathletes. With 15 years coaching experience and a thorough knowledge of the sport and what it takes to achieve success. Paul is driven by empowering athletes to achieve their sporting challenges. He caters for triathletes aiming to better their performance in Ironman or Ironman 70.3. In addition Paul has coached athletes to ITU World Age Group Championships, national, regional & state titles in a variety of distances.
