With Sunny Coast 70.3 a class favourite, we caught up with former Pro Anna Jefferies who has graced the race in previous years.
Anna has shared some great tips and tricks along with some inside thoughts from behind the professional female triathlete line:
A: I live here! Racing on my stomping grounds with family and friends supporting me is always special, and also getting to sleep in my own bed pre-race and not having any travel.
A:I had a much needed break for a few weeks after Busso in May. This recharged my batteries and I've had a consistent lead up to SC70.3. I also recognised that I couldn't keep up the same training load as I have before with other commitments taking up more of my time, so I have balanced everything really well and I'm feeling strong and race-ready.
A: Enjoying the process is number 1!!
Don't over-complicate.
No need to get caught up in getting all the gear when you're starting out.
A: Very - no matter what your level, having a goal gives you something to aim for. Make it challenging for yourself but realistic, and give yourself a pat on the back when you nail it!
A: Having the 'all or nothing' attitude in my last year as elite U23.
A: In the days before, try to relax and don't overthink the race (you can spend a lot of mental energy getting nervous). The day before I make sure I am clear with the course and mentally rehearsing it with key things I want to achieve in the race. Pre-race I like to have plenty of time so I'm not rushing, I sometimes like to listen to music, and finding a quiet spot for a few mins of deep breathing is a must-do for me before my swim warm up.
A: Rehydrate, get a good meal in as soon as the sick feeling goes away, have a light stretch (although most of the time this one is a good intention that doesn't happen and I regret it the next day haha). Nothing fancy here.
A: Pre-race go-to is a small bowl of honey oats, 2 pieces of jam toast and an orange juice. Post-race - depends a lot, but I usually like a burger and chips in the afternoon
A: I use Infinite and gels and a homemade cookie or 2
A: During racing it's those people who pass you and then ease up. So annoying
A: Not something to be taken lightly. I think there needs to be more athlete education to help with inadvertent doping. Also, (in an ideal world) more funding put towards drug testing more people both pros and age-group athletes.
A: The beach section just before Alex head on the rocks
A: Zephyr bar
A: I'm studying nutrition and dietetics at uni and I'm super passionate about it and can't wait to be qualified next year!