What is your name and what do you do?
Katrina Brightling. Operations Director for a Corporate Event Company. Aspiring age group triathlete:)
How did you get into swimming or triathlon?
While never in a competitive manner, I’ve been swimming as long as I can remember. Swimming in the lake at my cottage, playing inntertube waterpolo at university or just messing around with friends at the local pool, I loved to be in the water. Triathlon came much later in life when a roommate suggested we sign up for a race. I thought she was completely nuts but eventually got peer pressured into it, and then I was hooked!
How did you find Team Atomica?
I heard about Team Atomica through some friends in triathlon. I then investigated a little further and learned that they ran a swim program right down the street from my house. I hadn’t had a lot of experience with group swimming but knew it was what I needed if I wanted to see any improvement. I chatted with one of the coaches who then suggested I come out for a couple of sessions to give it a try and I then joined the program shortly thereafter.
What candy best describes you and why?
Hmm..that’s tough. There are very few candy items I don’t like. For me? I’d probably say Reeces Pieces. I love peanut butter with just about everything.
What’s your favourite part about being in the sport?
The people. It’s hands down (for me) the best part. I’ve met some great, life-long friends who make everything about the sport that much more fun. Having an awesome community to train and race with has made me wanting to come back year over year.
What’s one challenge you’ve set for yourself and achieved? Not yet achieved?
I think crossing the finish line at IM Lake Placid was one of the most rewarding challenges I have overcome yet. When I set out on the journey, I was relatively new to the triathlon world and I had a ton of doubt if I could stay the course. But I trusted the process, followed a plan and had the best day I could have hoped for. It was a blast. After doing it once, I knew I wanted to do it again, but definitely didn’t want to rush into it. One day (more than likely in my 70s) I would love to toe the line in Kona, but having that kind of longevity in the support would be equally awesome.
Favourite snack to eat after a hard workout?
Sandwiches. Any and all really – I’m a big fan. I like pizza too.
One thing not many people know about you?
I love to travel. Okay, a lot of people know this about me but i’m trying to tackle 40 countries by 40. I’ve got 7 or 8 to go:) Destination race anyone?