For Shanze, the decision to take on her first triathlon was driven by a desire to challenge herself. Having already conquered the challenge of two marathons and being an experienced surfer, she was excited to explore the world of triathlons. "I love swimming, and to combine two of my sports along with cycling is a challenge I really looked forward to."
Shanze applied for a sponsorship with Fund Her Tri UK and took on the challenge of doing the Sprint distance at Blenheim Triathlon. Shanze also enlisted the help of a triathlon coach, and this professional guidance was crucial in helping her navigate the complexities of training for three distinct disciplines and be fully prepared.
Race Day
Shanze prepared her kit the night before the race, ensuring everything was ready for the big day. This preparation helped her feel organised and ready to tackle the triathlon, especially since races usually start very early in the morning.
Being ready the night before ensured that she was fully focused on race day. As a result, Shanze says there were no lows on her race: "It was all just a big high of doing my first triathlon!"
Her experience was so positive that, after finishing the Sprint distance, Shanze now has eyes on doing her first 70.3 tri in the future. And, for anyone thinking of taking on the challenge of their first tri, she has only two enthusiastic words: "do it!"
FHT UK community support
Shanze also underscored how FHTUK played an important role in her first tri. Being part of our community, she had support from dozens of women in triathlon, many doing their first tris this year too, in addition to webinars, in-person events and exclusive discounts and kit donations. "I am so, so grateful for the support throughout," she says.
Ready to take on your first triathlon? Click here to learn how to apply for sponsorship by Fund Her Tri UK!
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