Chloe Pollard Athlete Ambassador

Chloe was an elite swimmer from a young age to a step into triathlon was the natural progression. She talks to Sundried about life as an elite athlete.

Have you always been into sport?

I have been very active since a very early age in multiple sports ranging from rugby to tennis. I was always the lively child that needed some sort of sport to keep me busy. Amongst my earliest successes was becoming county champion in 50m free at the age of 8.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

During my time in competitive swimming I was training within a triathlon club. I wanted a new challenge and so with encouragement from my coach, triathlon seemed to be the logical step from my favourite discipline of open water swimming.

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

I have always enjoyed the River Arun 3.8km swim in Arundel. It has a great atmosphere with mass participation. It is always a well-organised and friendly event.

And your proudest achievement?

In August last year in Canada I became U23 World Aquathlon Champion.

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

Unfortunately at the London triathlon on my first standard distance. I exited the water first alongside Lucy Hall however had a bike mechanical that saw me have to pull out of the race.

How do you overcome setbacks?

I seem to always find a positive to every setback. Yes you might not be able to do the things you want but then other opportunities arise that you may never have had previously.

What is the best bit of advice you wish someone had told you before you started competing?

How to mount and dismount the bike. Unfortunately my first race saw me throw my bike to the ground as I dismounted at too high a speed.

What are your goals for 2018?

I am hoping to represent Great Britain again this year at the World Multisport Festival in Denmark to compete in the Elite Aquathlon Championships and also in Ibiza for the European Championships.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

Keri-Anne Payne. I was lucky enough to meet her when I was younger. Her passion for open water swimming led me to give it a try and from then on I have never looked back.

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

It is an ethical brand with athletes in mind. I really like the running leggings as they are very comfy and non-restrictive when running hard in the winter months.