- FULL NAME
Fiona Mary Bridget Lyons - BIRTHPLACE: And name other places you have lived
Born in Galway, raised in Woodford, Co. Galway, moved to Dublin for a couple of years, took off to Saudi Arabia for three and a half years, travelled around the world for a year, lived in Limerick for a few months and then eventually moved back to Galway. - WHEN DID YOU JOIN GTC AND WHY?
I joined GTC in 2008 and it is all Miriam Wall’s fault! We played tag rugby together and she convinced me to give triathlon a go. Here I am all these years later. Thanks, Miriam 🤗. - OCCUPATION
Medical Secretary at the Bon Secours Hospital. - PREVIOUS SPORTS
Running, camogie, swimming, football and tag rugby. - SWIM / BIKE / RUN: Which do you prefer and why?
I like all three, but for time management, a run and swim are the easiest to fit in. I have a love-hate relationship with the bike. It is probably the most rewarding when I’m fit, but I’m known to do a lot of last-minute panic cycling. I really should do turbo!For pure enjoyment and exhilaration, sea swimming is my happy place. - FAVOURITE EVENT
I’ve somehow found myself on the start line ten times at the Hell of the West Triathlon in Kilkee. It is a very well-organised, proper, honest race. Wild, relentless hills, stunning scenery, and you question your sanity in the headwind and swear you’ll never do it again, until entries open for the following year!A close second is our very own Tribesman Triathlon. I had the pleasure of taking part this year and I absolutely loved it. It was so well organised, with a fantastic setup and course, and I think this race has huge potential to become a standout yearly event. - FAVOURITE PLACE TO TRAIN
Mallorca, for the sunshine, crystal clear water, perfect roads, iconic climbs and my ability to remember every route 🤩. - SPORTING CLAIM TO FAME: Name any sporting achievement you are most proud of
The Frances Thornton Galway Bay Swim in 2018 was a day I’ll never forget. I had the most amazing experience crossing the bay. It was such a privilege to take part and the support I received was unreal!Also, winning my age group, finally, at the Tribesman Triathlon this year 🙌. - THREE MUSIC TRACKS THAT POWER YOUR TRAINING SESSIONS
Lose Yourself, Eminem
Sandstorm, Darude
Titanium, David Guetta and Sia - YOUR ALL-TIME SPORTING HEROES AND WHY?
Sonia O’Sullivan. I loved watching how determined and resilient she was throughout her career, and I admire her practical and no-nonsense approach to training. - YOUR GTC HERO, AND WHY?
You are your own hero. We are surrounded by everyday heroes in our club. The majority of us join with little or no experience in one or more disciplines. Stepping out of your comfort zone, learning a new skill, persevering, encouraging and supporting each other, and then embracing the challenge of your first triathlon, that’s inspiring ❤️.
