Barry is an ultra runner who has his sights set on a full Ironman. He talks to Sundried about training and racing.

Have you always been into sport?

Yes, I have always been into sport, mainly bodybuilding and weight training. This is the first year that I decided on endurance training, and I went straight into training for an Ironman.

What made you decide to enter the world of triathlon?

I fancied testing myself to the extreme so 3 sports in one sounded like the challenge I thrived.

What’s been your favourite race to date and why?

I recently raced the Full Steam Fortitude ultra marathon. 3 mile laps every hour for 10 hours. That was brutal both mind and body, but I got it done.

And your proudest achievement?

My proudest achievement was actually my sub 2-hour half marathon. It may not have been the longest or the quickest run I have done but it was the first one where I beat the time I set myself by a country mile.

Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?

None as such. But 7 laps into the endurance event mentioned above, I hit the wall and hit it super hard, I didn't know what to expect next.

How do you overcome setbacks?

Frequently, I push myself pretty hard and my body says no a lot. I overcome these setbacks by resting. It seems to help.

What advice do you wish you'd been given before you started competing?

One big goal and small goals to get you there. My journey to Ironman includes 10 medals before I get there, stepping up the training, winning the medals, a constant push towards greatness. Plus get the gear. Make yourself look like a champion and you'll become one.

What are your goals for 2020?

10 medals and completing an Ironman. 

Who do you take your inspiration from?

Everyone and anyone. I look for the bits of people that I love. From my dad never giving up to my friends pushing me through the next mile. I look deep inside myself and push myself further and further each time.

What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?

I love the fact that there is so much variety. I love the new stealth cycle collection in particular, but most of all I really like the fact that they are made using sustainable raw materials.