Red Dog AOTM – how do you feel about that? Shocked. Seeing some of the amazing athletes each month, it honestly never even crossed my mind.
When did you join, and what attracted you to the club? Basically, Nea Ovens made me do it (picture a short blonde maniac with a chainsaw). Nea can be very persuasive 😊 I was swimming at another club, but the coaching wasn’t inspiring me, and the late start times didn’t suit. I used to compete against Trent at Aussie Masters events — I’m pretty sure he always wiped the floor with me — but I always appreciated the energy he brings to the pool and his coaching skills.
How much training do you do at the moment? Six times per week — three swim sessions and three gym sessions. I hate the gym, and I don’t have a single friend there — probably because I look like a tarantula spider with a slapped face when I walk through the front door.
What’s your favourite session and why? Friday lunchtime swim is awesome. Sun, short course, sprints, and a solid setup for suds on the weekend. This session has been brought to you by the letter S.
Who’s your ideal training partner and why? (Swim, Bike, Run) I’m the bloke who only does the swimming — although I have been known to enjoy a good “skip” now and then. Nea, Hendo and Rachel keep me honest — sometimes with a mild to moderate intervention. I pick up Nea and Hendo on the way to the pool, which helps lock in the calendar and ensures I show up – most of the time.
The one bit of advice I’d give to a newbie is? Introduce yourself to everyone and just say hi! An awesome bunch of people are waiting to meet you.
What’s your favourite Wednesday night dinner venue? Ribs and Burgers. Nuggies!
What do you do outside of training? I live on acreage, so I spend a lot of time in the garden when I’m home. I do a fair bit of entertaining and really enjoy travel. I’ve been fortunate enough to see a lot of the world.
What’s your one guilty pleasure? I really love good wine and good champagne. Life is far too short to drink rubbish wine.
