Athlete:
Kylie Simpson
Based in Brisbane, Australia, Kylie's ambition is clearly set on Kona after her victory at Ironman Cairns in 2021. She continues to push her own limits and wakes up everyday wanting to be better than she was yesterday.
What is your ultimate finish line?
Kona Podium.
What are you most proud of?
My 2021 Asia Pacific Title in my second race over the Ironman distance.
What are your worst habits as an athlete?
Falling asleep as soon as I lay on the couch, regardless of the time during an Ironman prep. Also snoring when I'm training hard.
Who is to thank/blame for introducing you to your sport? Tell us your history to how it all began and how you got to where you are now.
I use to be a runner, and found myself injured a lot of the time. I would water run and swim (very limited, compared to what I do now), and bike when injured. I had done Noosa triathlon a few times with some friends and thought I could be pretty good at this if I actually trained for it. My first triathlon suit I bought was 2XU. A few close friends, Matt and Mark saw my injury struggles with running and both encouraged me to switch to triathlon.
What gets you out of bed in the morning and drives your passion to keep pushing yourself and chasing your finish lines?
I don't feel as though I have gone as fast as I can. I love racing, and wake up everyday wanting to be better than I was yesterday.
If you could invite any 3 people (dead or alive) to a dinner party, who would they be and why? What would you cook?
I would cook steak, roasted potatoes and beetroot salad. I would invite: Steve Prefontaine, he is my favourite runner. The Queen, she has stood the test of time as a female leader. Denzel Washington, he is successful, humble and seen much adversity.
What does your ultimate training session / day look like?
Starts with breakfast and coffee with my kids (two dogs), a swim in the dam in summer with training partners, followed by a bike ride in the mountains, including a coffee/lunch stop. A nice easy run in the afternoon with friends riding or running beside me. Definitely a good steak for dinner, and some dark chocolate!
What is your favourite 2XU product and why? How does this help you prepare, perform, recover and repeat?
Compression tights, I use these to help recover after long training days. I even sleep in them sometimes.