Danny Turnock Athlete Ambassador

Danny is a triathlete who is inspired by his sons. He talks to Sundried about life as a triathlete.

Have you always been into sport?

Yes in my early years, I swam to a county level from 13 to 17 until I did as most of us have done and found girls, friends and partying. I also raced Moto X and played rugby. Then I took a 20-year hiatus, built an IT company, got married, renovated 3 houses and had 2 children before realising I need to do something active again. So, in January 2019 I made a New Year Resolutions to start running and swimming.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

It was more luck than any big plan, I wanted to start swimming again and my local triathlon club swam at a convenient time so I joined them. After 4 or 5 weeks we did a swim speed test, I wasn’t only the fastest on the day but in the history of the club, it didn’t take the club members long to convince me to sign up for a local triathlon and give swim, bike and run a go. And I'll never look back!

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

Leeds Castle, was for me the best race. The scenery, the organisation and the whole atmosphere was just perfect. Swimming under the castle bridge was such an experience followed by a fast undulating bike leg, completed with the most beautiful run, at one point I had to pinch myself. Then standing on the podium in front of my two sons was a truly elevating experience. Once the race was over, we enjoyed a day at the castle. Just one bit of advice, avoid the maze in 30-degree heat on very tired legs - not a good combination!

And your proudest achievement?

Hands down qualifying to represent Team GB in the World Championships in Edmonton Canada.

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

I wasn’t feeling well leading up to Bewl Water Triathlon. The swim went okay but felt harder than normal, I got out the water 7th or 8th, jumped on the bike but I could tell my breathing wasn’t right, managed the bike leg but each tiny hill was just so hard, went into the run fast and that was it my breathing was so out of control all I could do was slow to a walk, every time I tried to run again, I just couldn’t find the energy. Turns out I was coming down with the flu.

How do you overcome setbacks?

Until 3 days ago, I have been lucky as far as setback are concerned, however COVID-19 came along and dealt me a huge one. My championship hopes have been postponed indefinitely, after getting over the initial shock, I have booked a new qualifying event, Brighton Triathlon 2020, reverted back to base training, when I continue to get stronger.

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

I wish someone had warned me what an expensive and addictive hobby this would be, but then again, I’m glad they didn’t, going in blindly was the best approach.

What are your goals?

I have one clear goal to stand on the podium and receive a medal in front of my family, in the world championship one day.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

Most of my inspiration is taken from inspiring my two sons, I wanted to show them how with effort and dedication you can truly achieve anything you desire.

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

It's really high quality and very reasonable price. I’m loving my new Peloton Men's Training Bib Tights and the convenience of my new leg warmers which are perfect for the ever changing English weather.