Andrew McCracken - 70.3 World Championship Age Group Qualifier
I became hooked on triathlons after being challenged to compete a sprint triathlon in 2003. Prior to this challenge I had not partaken in any sports activities whatsoever. At the time I was 33 years old, 141/2 stone health disaster waiting to happen.
Initially my goal was just to complete a triathlon, but soon changed to an all out desire to get faster. From my first sprint in 2003 to mid season 2004 I completed in many triathlons.
At first I set my own training plans and sessions using a few books and internet resources. These seemed to work reasonably well, but I lacked motivation and confidence in my sessions, questioning if I was training in the most efficient manor. This lack of confidence created inconsistency in my training.
Early 2004 I started to use the coaching services of Mark. Almost immediately my performance started to improve. My training became more focused and I was more motivated to do the sessions. I had confidence in the training sessions knowing that Marks experience and my commitment would pay dividends.
Having a programmed prepared for me and knowing that all the hours training were correct and the most efficient way to improve, provided great confidence and motivation. This meant that it was only a short time before my performances started improve.
In two years of being coached by Mark, I have gone from just completing a triathlon to qualifying for the Ironman 70.3 (Half Ironman, Longleat 2005) World Championships in 2006.
My improvements across all three disciplines have been very good. In two years my PB times have been slashed. Examples are:- 10K Run - 49 minutes to 40 minutes; 10 Mile Run - 1:16 to 1:06; 25 Mile TT - 1:12 to 1:03 and Swim 30 min down to 25 min for 1500m
I took 11 minutes of my Olympic distance between 2004 and 2005, improving to a PB of 2:16.
I believe these improvements would not have been possible without Mark's coaching.
I would not hesitate to recommend marks tailored programmes to any person wishing to improve their triathlon performances, whatever their ability.
|