Home State: NZ
Sports: Swimming/Ironman
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/sophie_hay_/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
How did you get into the sport?
As a full-time swimmer who dabbles in triathlon, I have loved the water since I was a baby. I started my journey at Hilton Brown to learn to swim, and as I grew up, I realized it was something I enjoyed and had a talent for. I began competitively swimming at Hamilton Aquatics, known at the time as Ace Swim Club, at 10. Now 17 years old, I just graduated high school. I still have the same love for the sport; it’s taken me to the other side of the world and taught me many great things that day-to-day life never would have.
Hardest thing about your sport?
The hardest thing about swimming training would have to be the back-to-back 5 a.m. sessions; they are a killer!
What does your regular training week consist of?
A regular training week as of right now with training for swimming and Half Ironman.
– 9 sessions of swimming for 2 hours
– 3 gym sessions
– 4 1/2 hours of cycling
– 2 hours of running
How do you keep motivated?
I am a very goal-oriented person; I know what I want, and I know how to get there; I just need to do it. Getting better is what keeps me getting up at 5 am each morning to keep attacking it!
Goals (Future Plans and Career Expectations)
I have just committed to Washington State University in the USA, which is a very exciting opportunity for my future to further my career. My current goal is to qualify for the junior world pool championships in August.
Best piece of advice you have received?
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
