Ryley Harland
How do you stay motivated and push yourself in training?
I stay motivated by setting goals for myself. These include goals to do with training and then competition result goals. Setting these goals gives me something to get me motivated as I want to achieve these goals and succeed in the season.
Many athletes have pre-game rituals that help them get into the zone. What are some of your personal pre-game rituals or routines that you believe help you get in the zone before hitting the beach or pool?
I get in the zone pre race by ensuring I have a good warm up and mainly just try and keep myself calm and talk to my coaches and clubmates, to keep myself busy and talk about the race strategies and what my plan is. Although I don't have a huge routine as such before a race, I like to keep it simple.
Reflecting on your career so far, what would you consider as the most memorable or defining moment?
My most memorable moment would be qualifying into the 2023/24 Nutri-Grain Ironman series through the trials. The trials was one of the best weekends I have put together where a 3rd in the final M shape Iron put me in 6th overall and a place in the Series. I was 17 when I qualified which made it more special.
Are there any specific achievements or milestones that you are particularly proud of and that you feel have significantly impacted your journey as an athlete?
Probably the weekend at trials when I qualified in the Series. I proved to myself I was good enough but also that there was still a lot I can work on and improve on my weaknesses and be better every time.
Beyond your athletic pursuits, do you have any hobbies or passions that might surprise people?
I like traveling. I went to Japan in the off-season recently and plan on going to a lot more places in the future. I like to watch the footy and try to go to every GC Suns game.
How do you balance your intense training and competition schedule with personal interests outside of your sport?
I definitely haven't mastered balancing the training and competition within my personal life, although I try to see all my mates outside of the sport as much as I can while ensuring I'm able to train and race the fastest I can. Although, I'm still learning and it's something you learn with time.
What are your top 3 ENGINE products (either for racing or training)?
1. Shredskin Pro's
2. Weapon Goggles
3. Club Cut Pools