Hey Maddi, when did you join Bayside Tri Club, and what got you into triathlon?
I joined in January this year! My footy coach, Meg Fisher, roped me in – she’s clearly in the business of turning footballers into triathletes. I’ve always loved trying new sports and pushing my body, so it felt like the right time to give triathlon a go.
Classic Meg. One minute you're playing footy, the next you're clipping into cleats at 6am and wondering how you got here. Welcome to the cult – I mean, club!
How have you found the club so far?
I love it. There are so many chances to train with others during the week, and everyone’s been ridiculously welcoming and inclusive. There’s something about the intensity of pushing yourself hard, surrounded by a bunch of insane athletes – it’s addictive.
Ha ha – next thing you know, you'll own more lycra than actual clothes and find yourself saying things like, “I think I’ll just ride a cheeky 100k before brunch.”
What triathlons have you done so far?
I’ve done two 2XU sprint triathlons (best time was 1 hour 32 mins). Just dipping my toes in…but next season, I’m ready for more!
Any sporting highlights outside of tri?
I played VFL footy for five years at Carlton and Essendon, won a premiership with St Bedes Mentone Tigers, and snagged Best & Fairest last year. Outside of footy, I’ve done a bunch of half marathons (1.55 pb) and ran my first marathon last year too (4.25 pb).
Amazing! Great talent 😊
What are your race goals for the next season?
I’d love to do a few Olympic distance races and shave some time off my sprints. And ideally...not bonk from poor fuelling again!
Yep, a banana and a prayer tends not to work too well 😊
Which age group are you in for triathlon?
F 25-29 – the fun zone.
Ha ha, at 25 I was having lots of fun…but it definitely didn’t involve triathlon!
Got a greatest rival yet?
Not yet. But I’m sure one will emerge... probably from within the club, ha!
Any tri-related accidents or injuries?
Nope – touch wood!
Let’s keep it that way!
Ever had a race stuff-up?
Not a disaster, but I definitely underestimated fuelling and hydration. Still working that side out. It’s all part of the learning!
What’s your go-to post-race indulgence?
Coffee. Immediately. Then later, something carby or meaty – bread or steak.
An athlete after our own hearts. Tri hard, recover harder.
If you could ban one thing from triathlon forever, what would it be?
Hmm…no strong opinions yet, but I’ll report back when I’ve suffered more!
Ha ha! What has triathlon taught you that school or uni never did?
That my body is capable of so much more than I think – and that discomfort doesn’t mean I’m done.
What’s your karaoke anthem?
Anything Adele. And I mean anything. I know every word.
Someone get this woman a mic and a wind machine. Which song are we cueing for you?
My favourite is probably, ‘Make you feel my love’ from 2008.
I assume you’ve seen her in concert?
No! I’ve never seen her live, but I would pay A LOT of money to see her when she next comes to Australia!
Should I mention she's one of the best live performers I've seen?!
If triathlon were your dating profile, what would it say?
“Don’t be fooled by the smile in a race.”
Ha ha! What do you get up to outside of tri?
I still play footy and love long-distance running, including up to a marathon – there’s always an event or race on the go, even during footy season. Plus the gym, and walks with my two golden retrievers Doogie and Gumpy.
You had us at golden retrievers. We’ll ignore the part where you casually run a marathon for fun.
What work do you do?
I’m an independent support worker. I’ve got three clients around Melbourne and honestly, I love it. It’s been a dream of mine since I was young – to work independently and help people live the life they want. I have my own business called Sportbility that runs sports programs for people on the NDIS. All my clients face their own challenges, whether that’s mental health, personal care, speech, OT or community access.
That’s genuinely incredible. We need to create an end of season award for ‘biggest heart’ so you can win that too 😊
Who’s your greatest supporter?
My mum, grandma, and my lovely partner. They show up to everything – footy, races, events, you name it. I’m really lucky.
Aww, a personal cheer squad!
Best advice you’ve ever received?
Your body can push well past what your mind tells you. I come back to that a lot.
What’s your hidden talent?
I can sing every Adele song word for word.
Excellent, you’re hired for the end of season karaoke night!
What’s next for you?
I’m just super excited to get a full tri season under my belt and learn more.
Watch this space – she’s just getting started!
Look forward to racing alongside you next season 😊
