Andy Cole Athlete Ambassador

Andy got into the sporting world later in life and aspires to race for the Team GB Age Group team. He talks to Sundried about training and racing.

Have you always been into sport?

No, far from it really, I didn’t really get into running and cycling until I was in my mid thirties then multisport came a few years after that.

How did you first get into triathlon?

As a parent watching my young daughter train with our local Tri Club I slowly was drawn into the adult training sessions and then coerced into entering my first event.

What has been your favourite race to date and why?

Outlaw Half Nottingham 2017, it was my first ever Triathlon and as a 70.3 event a rather large one, I had been a feed station volunteer and course marshal previously and it was great to be on the other side and soaking up all the support and positivity.

What is your proudest achievement?

The progression from struggling to swim more than 25m in late 2016 to completing an Full Outlaw 3800m swim in July 2019.

Have you ever had any racing disasters?

Yes I have crashed at the start of a two up Cycling Time Trial and then had to catch up to my partner with blood pouring from my elbow and knee.

How do you overcome setbacks?

Don’t dwell on it, look for the next positive as it wont be far away.

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

Don’t forget to enjoy the moment, your supporters are so join them.

What are your goals?

I hope to be able to represent Great Britain as an Age Group athlete in the future, I will work towards this by continuing to do the best I can and work on my weaknesses.

Who inspires you?

I’m inspired by a range of people, as my daughter got me into the world of Triathlon and she continues with it her determination and drive inspires me, other Sundried ambassadors Claire Steels and Genia Marek inspired me a number of years ago when we shared the same coach and I could see how hard they were working and the results they achieved.

Why work with Sundried?

I have been wearing Sundried clothing for a number of years as I liked the whole picture behind the brand, the ethos and the products. By becoming a brand ambassador I hope to connect with people who are not yet aware of the ethos and the quality products enabling them and ultimately the wider world to benefit from what Sundried are passionate about.