What is your history with sports and athletics?
As it’s usual for almost any European kid, I started out with playing soccer in my local club. At that time I didn’t really have the intention to achieve something or become a professional, it was more about being in a team and making friends. At the age of 12 I got hooked on a track and field team. I always enjoyed running, so this was a cool opportunity. I succeeded in some youth competitions, but soon returned to soccer, playing the game until I was around 16. From 16 to my 20s, sport wasn’t a really a focus, as we founded our first band, toured a lot etc. During my studies in marketing and communication I started to play rugby, but more important started work for IRONMAN triathlon and really got hooked on endurance sports and since then I am totally into swim, bike and run, each on their own or combined. Snowboarding, XC skiing, trail running and hiking round up my sports profile.
What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?
I guess it’s all about learning what you can achieve and do, if you are willing to, as well as the bond you develop with like-minded people. Of course we all enjoy being fast and hard training sessions, but in the end it’s about what happens on a social level. Long story short: I enjoy meeting people that are into the same things.
Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?
Thankfully, not yet. There have been some smaller back issues, but nothing that would keep me away from training or racing for a longer time.
Has your participation helped you overcome any major life challenges?
I had some anxiety issues, not really bad ones thanksfully. But joining a triathlon club, being with like minded people and simply moving for the sake of motion helped me to appreciate the little things way more and the anxiety issues got better.
What is your “why?”
I wanna know, where my breaking point is. I want to know how far I could take it. I wann a overcome the “You cannot do that.”-thought.
What is your favorite gear or training equipment?
I like my pull buoy and the blackroll stuff. Besides, I never thought I’d admit, but Yoga is the thing if you want to improve mobility!
Do you have a favorite race or event?
I really love small, familiar events, but there’s no specific one (yet) 🙂
What’s next?
Two open water swim races in Europe, as well as a middle distance triathlon race.
Any fun facts about yourself?
Not really. I am really loud and annoying sometimes.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?
You don’t need expensive gear, bikes or whatever. Find people doing the stuff you wanna do and join them. There’s always something to learn. In the end it’s all about action and just doing what you want to do. Pace, time and splits aren’t important.