Mark approached me to help him train for the best result possible at Kona. We worked together through the winter and quickly identified that a measured approach to on-the-bike training , with fewer long rides in the Winter and early Spring than he had done in previous years, would suit his physiology best and keep him healthy until we could push up the volume closer to the target period.

Using specific indoor sessions to power, combined with longer power and HR-based tempo rides rather than endurance-based longer rides brought him to excellent condition, with a win along the way for good measure.

In the end Mark battled the heat to post an amazing result in Kona, whetting his appetite for a return visit!

"I started working with Tim at the end of 2014 with a goal of making the age group podium at the 2015 World Ironman Triathlon Championships in Kona.

Tim ensured I was doing the right type of training at the right time, often meaning I was doing less than I previously would have. I found I was fresher for each session and able to execute my training much better. An unexpected benefit was my swimming improved greatly as I was not swimming tired, and able to swim with good form for each session.

Throughout the training cycle Tim was receptive of feedback I gave him, we carried out regular tests to ensure I was on track and changed the plan as required. On the way through the season I scored an overall win at HIM so I knew I was on track!

The result was probably my best race to date. While I did not quite make the podium in Kona, I felt I arrived at the race in the best condition I could, and a clear race plan to execute.

I am looking forward to more success working with Tim in 2016.

Tim’s note - Mark crossed the line taking 116th PLACE OVERALL and 11th PLACE IN HIS AGE GROUP with an overall time of 9:33:15!!!! His splits were: swim 3.8km 1:02:45, bike 180km 4:58:06, run 42.2km 3:24:09....Mark also took his own club's IM record!"