Challenge and Rewards – The Health Rewards Aquathlon

 We hear from Joyce Watt about tackling a new challenge! Joyce is taking part in the Health Rewards Aquathlon, in Association With Vigour Events, on Saturday the 11th of June.

I’ve been swimming since the age of 5. You almost say I’m more at home in the water than on land! Swimming is my first love and my passion. (With water skiing a close second!) Three years ago I got involved Vigour Events and with Open Water Swimming and my life changed in a very positive way!

ForthI’m taking part in the Aquathlon because I relish a new challenge. Primarily, I’m a swimmer but I took up running 6 months ago. So the Aquathlon, with its swim and run combo, is perfect.

I’m really excited about the event – it’s in a beautiful location up at Pilmuir Quarry with it’s crystal clear waters – and the weather leading up to the event has been fantastic meaning the water temperature is nice and warm! So I can’t wait to cross the finish line.

MiamiWhile some people will be taking part in the event for fun, or for a personal challenge, I’m quite a
competitive person that want’s to do as well as I can in these events. So it’s important for me to get the right training in to be at my best – practice, practice and more practice! In the lead up to the event I will also increase my carb intake and, of course, it’s very important to stay hydrated.

It’s really important for me to set goals – I’m always thinking about my next challenge so I have been concentrating more on running in the lead up to the Aquathlon. The biggest challenge for me in this event is going to be the run. I’m a  natural with swimming but not a natural runner. So I’m going to have put in plenty miles before the event to get ready.

I completed my first triathlon event in May. It was one of the greatest challenges I’ve faced in sport. Triathlon’s are intense, long and exhausting. I couldn’t have overcome the challenge without the fantastic encouragement from family and fellow athletes.

My inspiration comes from the friends I have met through Vigour Events and the G72 Triathlon Club. They drive me on and fuel my self belief and determination – which makes me feel like I can overcome any challenge!

TO ENTER THE AQUATHLON  – CLICK HERE