British Triathlon’s World Class Programme athletes have been spending time in Queensland, Australia as they prepare for their first events of the year.
The focus of their time down under has been on open water swimming, making the most of the climate and easy access to both the sea and lakes that the Gold Coast provides.
Commenting on the camp, Head Coach Ben Bright said: “It’s very difficult to work on open water swimming in the UK, especially during the winter, so we took the group away, out of the season, to allow them to focus on their open water skills.
“We’ve been working with specialist coaches whilst we’ve been here,” he continued. “Looking at specifics of sea swimming, alongside open water technical and tactical work.”
The closed season provides a great opportunity for the team to train together and look at specific aspects without the pressures of competition. Having the camp before the season allows the athletes a bit of downtime alongside their training, something Bright and the support staff know is important for this time of year.
“The aim has been to try and recreate the conditions they’d usually have at home alongside more targeted, technical training,” Bright said.
“Kate Waugh had her birthday whilst we’ve been here, so all the athletes and coaches headed out for a meal together to celebrate.”
“We’ve tried to keep the camp as relaxed as possible, staying in self-catering accommodation, the athletes have been eating in and spending time together, as well as exploring the Gold Coast.
You can find out more about the athletes on the World Class Programme by viewing their profiles.
