2015 is off to an exciting start as I have decided to dedicate the year to racing in Europe and the Middle East. It was a difficult decision for Sage, Coop and I to leave the comfort of Boulder for the year, but we felt it was time to mix things up a bit and with the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Austria this year, Europe seemed the logical choice for relocation.
As I was born in England, I have an EU passport which allows us to live in most of Europe, but we chose Girona as a base for several reasons. Although we have moved here in winter the weather is still mild and I have ridden outside 99% of the time so far. The trail network for running is quite extensive and starts right in the centre of the city. I joined a great fitness centre with a very nice 50m & 25m saline swimming pool, sauna, a running track and weight room. I have been very lucky to set myself up so quickly as we moved here just 6 weeks before a very competitive race and my first one of the season. But primarily Girona, like Boulder, is a cycling mecca. It’s been very exciting to explore new rides (with the help of mapmyride & Strava) every time I jump on my Trek Speed Concept.
My schedule is very exciting this year with all new (to me) races apart from an old favorite, Triathlon de Gerardmer, where I won the European Championships back in 2009. I can’t wait to get started next week with Challenge Dubai!