Damon Nugent Athlete Ambassador

Damon got into triathlon after discovering a love for cross training for marathon running. He talks to Sundried about training and racing.

Have you always been into sport?

Yes! I played football as a child but wanted something more competitive so became a pole vaulter throughout school and competed until I found the world of endurance sports.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

After hitting a plateau in the world of athletics, I wanted to challenge myself so signed up for a half marathon and a marathon. I quickly realised that as much as I loved running I also enjoyed cross training, breaking up just running with cycling and swimming. This meant a natural progression to triathlon.

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

Although it wasn't the most challenging, my favourite race was the London Landmarks Half Marathon. Competing just to run with friends and having the massive support from family and the massive crowds who come out to watch was an amazing experience. I'm sure the streets of central London had something to do with it too!

And your proudest achievement?

Finishing the Amsterdam marathon. Having such a long build up and extensive training camp and crossing that finishing line was just an emotional and proud moment of my life.

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

As much as it's my proudest moment it is also in my book of racing disasters! At mile 9 of the Amsterdam marathon, my hip decided to stop working and not wanting to let anybody down I dragged myself the other 17 miles to the finish line. I've never hobbled so much in my life; it mentally put me in a dark place but I know that I can do anything now after that day.

How do you overcome setbacks?

Push through them! Everything happens for a reason and instead of dwelling on anything, just push through and you will see the other side eventually. Sometimes the greatest things happen on the edge of defeat.

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

Train harder than you think you need to. My first few events I thought I could breeze through them with minimal training and I really couldn't! That was a struggle and a fast lesson learned.

What are your goals for 2019?

I'm going to focus on shorter distance triathlons, building up my speed and enjoying competing throughout the season. There are multiple sprint and standard distance triathlons to keep me working hard! I may throw a middle distance in there too, who knows.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

I have multiple inspirations, anybody who has the guts to go against the norm and say yes when somebody tells them no. David Goggins is just a legend, I beg anybody to listen to his story and not be motivated! Also Ross Edgley, the man who swum around the whole United Kingdom. 

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

The fact that the environment is a massive part of Sundried. Low carbon products and work with charities to clean up the ocean and beaches. Who wouldn't love that? But above that the clothes are just comfortable. My favourite is the men's trisuit, I would wear that thing to bed if I could!