MICHELE CROCE - HONG KONG
I started my triathlon journey in January 2017, when I decided to sign up for Lankgawi 70.3 for the same year in October. I had no triathlon experience before, 10 years + competitive running background, no competitive swimming background and no competitive cycling background. To prepare for this first race I trained by myself, reading some information and trying to learn what triathlon is about. First race was a success and I exceeded my expectations so I kept training and racing over the following 18 months, until the point I realised that to go further, improve I needed someone able to look at my training data, evaluate my level of fitness and design, adapt a specific training plan.
I decided to try a coaching program in early 2019 after completing some 70.3 events and one 140.6. I believe I went quite far only by myself in the first two years of my IM journey and I felt more and more the need for professional advice and fine tune of my training plan, maximize my time and define my vision. Was back in April I got in touch with KOA Sports and started exchanging information with Tim.
We started working together soon after and Tim was able to design a training plan that fit my very busy work schedule and takes in account my need of flexibility together with the ambitious goal we set together.
WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST IN YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS?
Consistent is everything, I learned that sometime “less” is better and quality training is always better over quantity. Now I feel confident and not frustrated when I have a rest day in my schedule. This surprised and surprise me.
Endurance is about resilience, consistency, be organised and honest. What Tim helped with his coaching is to be present each single session, which is also a key learning in everyday life.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE?
Being motivated to wake up every single day at 5am, train twice a day 7 days a weekmost of the week is what makes me proud. Be present and aware my effort are not unnoticed. Racing it is just putting everything together and believe in the plan your coach designed for you.
I can see the value of someone with professional experience and competitive very successful records looking at my personal situation and translating it into a plan, evaluating training session and adjusting the calendar.
With Tims guidance and support I completed one IM 70.3 (PB improved by 25 minutes) and two IM 140.6 completed within the set target and PB.