January has definitely been a bit of a rollercoaster. There have been some real highs — especially a strong cross‑country performance that showed the work is paying off — but also some frustrating lows. Illness crept in at the worst times and disrupted training and racing, which is never easy when motivation is high and goals are clear.

Despite that, the bigger picture hasn’t changed. The main racing season is getting closer, and preparation is slowly starting to come together. Training is beginning to line up, and I’m adding in different types of racing to build new skills, gain experience, and ultimately become a better, more well‑rounded triathlete. The long‑term goal for this season stays the same as last year too — racing abroad in Europe. Keeping that ambition in mind makes the tougher days feel worthwhile.

Alongside my own training, I’m also continuing to coach the youth sections at the triathlon club. This has been a really positive part of my winter. Coaching has helped me expand my skills away from racing, build confidence in a different environment, and give something back to the sport that’s given me so much. Working with younger athletes has also pushed me to think more about technique, consistency, and mindset — lessons that feed straight back into my own training.

January is always one of the hardest months to get through. Short, dark days, early mornings in freezing temperatures, and long hours on the turbo trying to avoid wet and windy conditions all test discipline and motivation. It’s not glamorous, but this is the work that builds the foundation for the season ahead.

 

It hasn’t been a perfect start, but progress rarely is. January has been about adapting, staying patient, and trusting the process. The season is getting closer — and I’m ready to keep building.