Wayne Richards has been a client of ours for over twelve years and while we manage his portfolio of properties, this 72-year old spends his time competing in triathlons for Team GB. We’re proud to have sponsored his kit for the European Championships in Portugal last Saturday… read Wayne’s story:
“I didn’t know much about triathlons until I turned 65.
“I remember the moment well. Mumbles Road was closed for the Swansea Sprint Triathlon and so I had to cycle to my gym at Village Hotel Club from my home in Mumbles. I remember coming across the swimming leg and thinking “I could do that! I’ll give it a go”.
“I used to swim in the outdoor swimming pool in Ystalyfera throughout my childhood and I was a strong swimmer, but nothing prepares you for the intensity of a triathlon. I soon realised that it wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be. But I got hooked!
“I train with the Swansea Trisharks in Langland and receive additional coaching from Olly at MySwim Co. and GJ Endurance. I have a great support network and they’ve helped me get through so many competitions.
“For my 70th birthday I was determined to complete the inaugural Swansea Ironman 70.3 to mark my major life milestone; and I’m proud that I completed it! I’ve since completed multiple triathlons and would often get the title of ‘best in age group’.
“I’d tell anyone to go for it, there’s nothing stopping you. You have to be positive and not let things knock you back, like your age.
“I love running across Gower, swimming in Langland Bay and then hitting the road by cycling all over, from my home in Mumbles to Neath, Aberdulais, Crynant and then over the mountains. It keeps me energised and I train six days a week.
“I’m passionate about helping people my age understand that age is just a number and there’s no age limit to keeping fit and trying something new! I’ve found the triathlon community to be incredibly supportive and inclusive too. While many fellow athletes are half my age, it just pushes me to test my physical limits!
“I’d recommend getting into a new sport to anyone and I’m excited to see what this weekend will bring as part of Team GB!”
