How are you feeling about the World Championship in St George?
Hopeful
Can you talk me through how you start your days right now?
No alarm, ideally after half 7, large decaf tea, PBJ toast + coffee and off to a 90min swim.
When did you first realise you were really really good at triathlon?
In 2018 I did an Ironman 70.3 (first time) for the fun of it and won it overall.
What do you do on your rest days?
I love a stroll to the cafe, some scheduled time for admin so I can then just switch off and enjoy relaxing. During heavier training periods, I do nothing but sleep and watch TV.
What one book has made a lasting impression on you?
There isn't just one. I need lots of different inputs to create my own opinion on things.
What's the last TV show you binge watched?
Bridgerton. Series 2 completed in 2 days (traveling).
Name one thing you cannot live without?
Headphones
When is the most nervous you've ever been?
Every race feels like the most nervous as I think I forget how nervous I was before. I get nervous when I am my most fit because there feels like there is more to lose if things go wrong.
What's one bad habit you wish you could break?
Sounds silly but if I wish I could break it, I just would. I would like to like sugar a little less I guess, would make healthy eating a bit easier!
How do you celebrate after a race?
By just embracing the achievement mentally. Of course, a heavily loaded burger and a cold drink goes down very well!
Do you have any pre-race rituals?
Nah. I don't feel it's a good idea to create rituals as it sets you up for missing something and thinking negatively. I like to just be very prepared and have lots of time (much to my husband's dismay at the alarm!).
What's your favourite app?
Spotify
What's the best advice your parents ever gave you?
Your time is the most valuable thing you have.
What's the stupidest thing you've ever done?
Oh too many things. Probably during lockdown making a home gym video and nearly breaking a rib from crashing off a stool very very! badly.
What's the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?
I'm quite open.. so I'm not sure. I'm useless at general knowledge, my memory only works for things I "need" to remember.
What's one skill you wish you had but you don't?
I'd quite like be able to remember everything I ever read or heard!
What's the most memorable career moment that you've had so far?
At the moment a lot have equal status, I'm waiting for the Ironman World Champs in 5 weeks time to top the list!
What is the one word that you live by?
Pride
What's your hidden talent?
Handstands
What's your favourite food?
Sticky Toffee Pudding
What is your least favourite food?
Liquorice YUK!
***
Thanks so much Kat. Wishing you all the best at the Ironman World Championships in St George next month! For more follow Kat at https://www.katrinamatthewstri.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/katr_matthews
View the Pretty Athletic collection here
Kat Matthews is a Pretty Athletic Athlete. "I love the products, and the ethos behind Pretty Athletic. Their products are so great to use in-between sessions and at the end of the day too!"
