July was a month split into two halves. The first half focused on the Bristol Super Series (European Champs qualifiers), the biggest race of the season so far. The second half was a more relaxed strength and aerobic training block.

The lead-up to Bristol was my first time properly targeting a race and executing a successful taper. For nearly two weeks, my volume decreased but intensity remained. Race week felt awful; sluggish and tired, typical taper feelings. I trusted my body would be ready.

Race day, my goal was to finish top three junior and secure a spot for the European Championships in Poland. I didn’t get off a good start; a rough swim put me behind. The bike was a big pack chasing the front pack of mostly senior athletes, so my swim didn’t significantly impact the race. On the run, I gave it everything but finished sixth junior, missing out on qualification.

After Bristol, I reset and evaluated what needed improvement before the next block. I then entered a strength block for a break from the intense sessions before Bristol. Training will intensify again after this month, leading into world qualifiers in a few weeks.