Darryl is a Canadian Athlete who was originally inspired by a teacher at school. He talks to Sundried about his journey.

Have you always been into sport?

Growing up, I always wanted to be a professional athlete. However, I knew that even professional athletes needed a back up plan. In high school, I had an amazing Sports Teacher and mentor who came to school every day ready for class in sports clothes. I remember one day saying "you have the best job in the world!" It was at that point I knew that I also wanted to be a Sports Teacher.

How did you first get into triathlon?

Being Canadian, I grew up loving baseball and hockey. However, I can honestly say that I am passionate about all sports as well as constantly setting new challenges and goals for myself.

I first got going with running while on a full baseball scholarship at university in the USA. After this, while completing my Masters degree, I wanted to test my limits and I set my eyes on a Half Ironman.

What has been your favourite race to date and why?

There is definitely not one race in particular. In general, my favourite type of race is the cross-triathlon. There is an aspect of "ruggedness" that always attracted me to this type of competition.

What is your proudest achievement?

My proudest athletic achievement was winning the German Championship in canicross (running with my dog) over 5km.

Have you ever had any racing disasters?

Never any disasters, but many times I have failed to reach a goal or target that I had set for myself.

How do you overcome setbacks?

I take what one might call a setback as the next phase. This outlook and mindset allows me to refocus, redefine and understand my new goals and targets going forward.

What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?

Invest in puncture-proof or puncture-resistant tyres!

What are your goals?

I generally set my goals as short, mid, and long term. An example of a short term for me was to run 365 consecutive days in 2020.

Who inspires you?

Inspiration often comes in so many shapes and forms. My biggest inspirations are my two daughters.

Why work with Sundried?

It is already an incredible thing to be able to use words like eco-friendly, quality and sustainability when it comes to activewear and our future. However, I feel if anyone is willing to spend a couple of minutes to learn about what Sundried stands for and the people involved with it, they will be a believer and customer for life.