Meet Richard Hills

Meet Triathlete Richard Hills

Richard Hills took up triathlon in 2018 and has represented the GB Age Group Team at the European middle distance championships in Bilbao in 2022.

Last year he moved into competing at the Standard / Olympic Distance (1.5km Swim, 40km Bike, 10km Run) and finished in 5th place at the British Age Group Championships which secured his Qualification for the Age Group World Championships in Torremolinos, Spain in October 2024.

Richard is a member of Fleet Feet Triathletes and receive coaching from Total Endurance.

What inspired you to take up your sport?

I was encouraged to do a middle distance triathlon by a friend over in Ireland as a way of catching-up since he moved home after university. As a competitive swimmer at regional level while at Secondary School and using cycling / running as a way of cross training while Rowing at University I though Triathlon was a good fit for my abilities.

Which club did you start your sporting journey with?

Fleet Feet Triathletes.

What has been your biggest challenge in your sporting journey, and how did you overcome this?

Starting Triathlon in my 30's with a wife and a full time job made it difficult to prioritise. I was lucky my wife also started her triathlon journey at the same time and we were able to effectively and efficiently manage our training around work and starting a family.

What are your goals for the coming year?

Top 10 finish at the Age Group World Standard Distance Triathlon Championships.

What does your training programme involve, and does this impact on other areas of your life?

Try to train 6 days per weeks with double sessions over the weekend. This means I have to be very disciplined with my time commitments while also being flexible around family life.

What skills do you have that have helped you succeed in your sport?

Commitment and adaptability.

How many competitions do you plan to compete in?

July 2024 - Scottish National Sprint Distance Championships.

How do you deal with setbacks in your sport, whilst training or competing?

Control the controllable and don't spend too much time and attention on things that have happened in the past - you can't change them!

Who is your biggest inspiration from the world of sport?

Sir Steve Redgrave or Jan Frodeno.

What is your greatest achievement in your sport?

Fifth place at the British Age Group Standard Distance Triathlon Championships to qualify for Age Group World Standard Distance Triathlon Championships.

What helps you to stay motivated and focussed during your training?

Having a clear end goal is important to maintain consistency and focus. It also helps to try and add a bit of fun / enjoyment to your training sessions.

What advice would you give to others just starting out in any sport?

There are loads of sports out there so make sure to pick one you enjoy! The more fun you have, the more likely you are to keep at it and improvement will come without you even realising.

How will your Talented Athlete Pass help you develop and hone your skills as an athlete?

Having use of local facilities will allow me to spend more time concentrating on increasing my fitness while also honing my skills as opposed to time spent travelling to facilities further from home. The close proximity will mean I'll have more time to work on strength and conditioning which I have had to sacrifice in the past.

Is there anywhere people could find more information about your upcoming sporting activity? (Facebook, Website / Twitter)

https://www.instagram.com/bigsledge87/