November 2015 www.womanthismonth.com 25 Triathlon is really growing in Bahrain and I'm very impressed to see so many women getting into this sport! and competing in triathlon, what made you opt for a new sport? SB: After completing my swimming career in university, it was difficult to train the required hours while working, so my times weren't really improving. Therefore, I was just swimming to keep fit (an hour five times a week) while participating in aquathlons (swim/run) and run races for fun. Then I decided to finally switch and get into triathlon, as it seemed like a growing sport that everyone spoke highly of. Since it involved swimming, I didn't feel I was completely changing to a new sport. It's been a year since I started in triathlon and I'm really enjoying it and I'm still learning, as there's always something to improve on in this sport. WTM: What are the biggest personal challenges in this new sport for you? SB: Triathlon is quite challenging due to the fact that it involves three completely different sports, therefore my challenge is in the bike and run leg, since I've never trained for these sports before. Learning how to draft, assembling/ disassembling my bike and changing the tires are among some of the challenges I have faced since starting triathlon. As for running, I've had to change completely my technique because I was doing it wrong so I’m adapting to the new practise and training to drop my time significantly to be at the elite level. WTM: How do you see the triathlon scene in Bahrain? The sport is clearly getting a lot of attention all over the world with high-end competitions; do you see it growing here as well? SB: Triathlon is really growing in Bahrain and I'm very impressed to see so many women getting into this sport! The nice thing about it is that age doesn't matter and anyone can do it. You just need the right attitude and effort to train. Crossing the finish line is more important than anything else is. Thankfully, with the support of HH Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain hosted its first international triathlon race last December. Two more races are coming up soon and, along with the annual races Bahrain Road Runners hosts, we are seeing a great increase in the triathlon community in Bahrain. Drive on Zallaq road in the early mornings on the weekend and you will be shocked as to how many people have started biking; it's a very nice feeling! WTM: What are your plans and expectations competing in this sport? SB: My plan is to keep training to improve my bike skills and running technique while trying to gain more experience competing at the Asian level with hopes of making the top 10 in Asia in the next two years. WTM: What is the routine of an athlete? SB: Usually professionals in this sport train three times a day six times a week. However, since most members on our team have other commitments, whether it’s school or work, we train twice a day. We have a swim session in the morning and during the afternoon we alternate between bike training and run/gym sessions during the week. The weekend usually includes long bike rides and open water swimming. WTM: Would you see yourself doing anything else apart from working with sport? SB: I have a double major in finance and sports management; therefore, I will start exploring opportunities in the finance field to see if it’s something of interest. WTM: What is your advice to those starting out in sports in Bahrain? SB: For a Bahraini woman starting her sports career as an athlete, the opportunities are limitless and you really have opportunities available that are not offered anywhere else in the world. More people need to take advantage of that because people want to have what Bahrain offers its female athletes. It's a matter of dedication and commitment and you will be rewarded with unforgettable experiences and lifelong lessons. g One word answer: - Biggest Achievement? Olympics - Mountain or beach? Beach - What makes you happy? Food - Always in your handbag? Candy - Heels or Trainers? Trainers - Quick snack fix? Fruit - What do you do to re-energize? Swim - Beauty product? Kiehl's - A place you will always remember? Athens.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==