News

Meet Welsh Triathlon Member Angharad Williams

Published:

Angharad Williams tells us why a trip to Tenby inspired her to do a Triathlon.

Name: Angharad Williams

Age: 25

Club: NEWT - Newport East Wales Triathlon

 

I was inspired to participate in triathlon after being in Tenby one weekend about 4 years ago when the long course was on. I knew nothing about it then and I had completed a few half marathons and charity events before but not a triathlon. I attended my local gym regularly and having done a lot of swimming and running growing up I went to Spin classes 3 times a week then bought a road bike. Me and a friend then decided to enter Ironman Wales 2014 and gave ourselves a year to participate in triathlons, work out what they were and ride a bike successfully! 

I have lymphoedema in my left leg, a progressive lifelong disability that requires constant compression garments and elevation. Everyone, including the doctors, therapists and my mum never thought that I would be able to complete a sprint triathlon, never mind the Ironman!

 

Working in the police force at the time, allowed me to train before and after work as I was on shift patterns. Triathlon became my life and leading up to Ironman I completed my first ever sprint, Olympic, standard and middle distance events and loved every part of it.

Since completion of Ironman Wales in 2014 I have trained as a PE teacher and am now teaching in a school in Penarth. Despite my disability and the struggles, I have had with my leg, I want to continue to inspire and educate young people about sport and lifestyle and have even set up a triathlon club in school. 

I cannot thank the NEWT club I started to attend in 2013 enough. The enthusiastic and supportive coaches and members have been a driving force with my success in triathlon. I have recently completed the Level 1 triathlon coaching course through Welsh Triathlon and the club and want to help others to achieve their ambitions. I haven't entered any major events for the coming year, I want to continue to help others and enter small events when I can. 

Thanks to our Partners

Join Us

And enjoy insurance benefits, race licensing and more...