Guillermo Ortega Athlete Ambassador

Guillermo is a long-distance triathlete who has completed some tough mountainous races in Europe. He talks to Sundried about life as a triathlete. 

Have you always been into sport?

I played tennis until I was 20 and then started surfing. I got into triathlon in 2009.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

I've always loved running but found it wasn't enough for me, so I started cycling and competing in duathlons. After that it was a natural progression to triathlon.

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

Embrunman because it's one of the toughest triathlons in the world. It's a full distance triathlon (3.8km swim, 186km bike, 42.2km run) in the Alps in France.

And your proudest achievement?

My proudest achievement was finishing Embrunman in 2014. 

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

I've never really had a bad disaster, and I try to forget the bad moments anyway.

How do you overcome setbacks?

I think of my family and friends and their support.

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

Pace yourself and remember the true race is the one against yourself.

What are your goals for 2018?

I will be competing in the Terres de l'ebre triathlon in Spain and Northwest Triman in Galicia, Spain.

Who do you take your inspiration from?

Mark Allen, six-time Ironman triathlon world champion.

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

For me, respect for the environment is very important and Sundried is a pioneer brand in that sense. I really like to think about the future of the planet and want to leave our children a healthy world. My favourite is the Sundried Albaron men's training top.