Catherine’s Journey to BECOMING A Blenheim Palace Triathlon Weekend Warrior
For Catherine, the Blenheim Palace Triathlon has always been more than just another event on the triathlon calendar. It was one of the first events she encountered when she started her triathlon journey in 2021, sparking an admiration for the sport that has stayed with her ever since.
"I actually had a ballot place in 2021," she recalls, "but I withdrew because it just seemed too ambitious for me as a first-timer." Fast-forward to 2025, and Catherine is now gearing up for the Blenheim Palace Weekend Warrior challenge, one of the most demanding and exhilarating events on the triathlon circuit.
When the opportunity to participate through Fund Her Tri UK (FHT UK) arose, Catherine didn’t hesitate. "I’ve looked at the Weekend Warrior event a few times over the past four years because I love the format. With some gentle persuasion from the team, it almost felt like fate!" she says. Her enthusiasm is infectious as she credits FHT UK’s supportive network: "#FHTMadeMeDoIt is a real thing!"
PREPARING FOR THE CHALLENGE
Catherine’s currently training for the London Marathon in April, which means her focus is on running for now. "That being said," she admits, "my mentality of ‘I’ve got 5-6 weeks post-marathon to train for Blenheim Weekend Warrior’ is 100% reckless!"
To balance her marathon training with triathlon preparation, Catherine incorporates swimming and turbo sessions into her weekly cross-training. "This will hopefully help me avoid running fatigue, mentally and physically," she explains. Her confidence in her fitness levels is bolstered by a pragmatic approach: "Adrenaline and sheer determination will carry me through on the weekend itself, I’m sure."
GOALS FOR THE WEEKEND WARRIOR
Catherine is approaching the Weekend Warrior challenge with a blend of ambition and mindfulness. "There’s definitely an element of wanting to prove something to myself and my teammates," she admits. However, she is equally committed to soaking in the experience.
"As a mum of four, events like these take a lot of logistical planning. The likelihood of me taking part again isn’t guaranteed, so I want this experience to be the most positive it can be." Catherine’s strategy for the weekend is simple but powerful: "Take my time, enjoy the surroundings, and appreciate the moment."
MOTIVATION AND MINDSET
Catherine acknowledges the mental and physical demands of a long weekend of racing but has a clear plan to stay motivated. "For all races, I spend a lot of time beforehand thinking through logistics, kit, routine, and routes. Fuelling will be key, and I’ll remind myself to enjoy it!"
She also believes in the power of community and positivity. "Smiling and small talk with other participants does wonders for motivation."
ROLE OF FUND HER TRI UK
Catherine’s gratitude for FHT UK is evident throughout her journey. "Two of my main events for 2025—London Marathon and Blenheim Palace Weekend Warrior—have come about through Fund Her Tri UK. I simply wouldn’t be doing these events without them," she shares.
The community’s support has been invaluable. "If I want advice on kit, fuelling, events, or training, I can send a message and have a response within minutes. Their ambition and excitement make me want to get involved in more challenges!"
INSPIRING MORE WOMEN TO TAKE THE LEAP
Catherine is passionate about encouraging other women to try triathlon, no matter their experience level. "Comparison really is the thief of joy," she warns. "You have to forget everyone else and ask yourself: ‘Why am I here? What am I wanting to achieve today?’"
Her advice for tackling big challenges is practical and inspiring: "Break them down into smaller chunks. For Weekend Warrior, I’m going to focus on each triathlon individually, reset at the end of each one, and then go again."
BALANCING LIFE AND TRAINING
Balancing training with family life and work is no small feat for Catherine, a mum of four. She credits her supportive husband, a keen cyclist, and her flexible work schedule for making it possible. "I started a new job at the end of 2024, which allowed me to reduce my working days. That extra day is perfect for long training sessions, guilt-free."
Catherine also prioritizes her mental health, recognising the value of exercise. "It’s vital to acknowledge how important exercise is, both physically and mentally. I don’t put too much pressure on myself to make every training session. When I struggle, I remind myself how far I’ve come and how much I enjoy training with teammates."
LOOKING AHEAD
With two big challenges in her sights, Catherine is excited for what lies ahead. "I have a whole summer of opportunity after early June," she says with a smile.
Catherine’s journey to the Blenheim Palace Weekend Warrior is not just about pushing her limits; it’s about embracing challenges, inspiring others, and enjoying the process. As she puts it, "Do it! Look at the diversity in ability, experience, and background in the FHT UK community. We’ve come a long way, and together, we can push those boundaries even further."
Catherine’s story is a testament to the power of determination, community, and self-belief. She is proof that with the right mindset and support, women can achieve incredible things in the world of triathlon and beyond.
Are you ready to make 2025 your best triathlon yet? Join us for the UK’s most stunning and beginner-friendly triathlon, over 40% of our participants last year were first-timers!
If you’ve got an interesting story you’d like to share please get in touch with us - hello@blenheimtriathlon.com - we’d love to hear from you.