Twelve Months, Twelve Races: How Ophelia Is Tackling 2025 One Finish Line at a Time

Ophelia never thought of herself as a runner, let alone a triathlete. But in just over a year, she’s gone from cardio-hater to endurance athlete—and now, in 2025, she’s taking on her boldest challenge yet: completing a different race every single month.

From triathlons and duathlons to open-water swims and her first Ironman 70.3, Ophelia’s journey is proof that the only thing standing between you and your goals is the decision to start.

How It All Began

Ophelia’s journey into endurance sport didn’t start with a race—it started with a question.

“On New Year’s Eve 2023, my dad asked everyone at the table to share a goal for the year ahead. I was feeling content with life, so I decided to go for something totally out of my comfort zone: I said I’d run 2,024 km in 2024.”

At the time, she’d barely run outside and had only ever done short treadmill sessions after lifting weights. “I was a die-hard gym girl. Cardio? No thanks.”

But something about that challenge clicked. She ran consistently, built up her distance—and ended up completing the goal early. That unexpected success planted the seed for something even bigger.

The 2025 Race-Every-Month Challenge

With a new year ahead, Ophelia wanted to keep the momentum going. “I loved having a goal to chase. I didn’t want to let that energy fade—so I decided 2025 would be the year of a new challenge every month.”

Each month, she’s lining up for a different endurance event—from 5Ks and duathlons to open water swims and full triathlons. And in May, she’s taking on Ironman 70.3 Venice.

“It’s a bit chaotic,” she laughs, “but it keeps me motivated. I love the variety, and the medals don’t hurt either.”

Discovering Triathlon

Ophelia’s path to triathlon was gradual but inevitable.

“I started out running, but I get bored easily—I need variety. Triathlon intrigued me because it combined swimming, cycling, and running. It felt like the ultimate challenge.”

She hadn’t swum seriously since school, but after picking up a bike in August 2024, she was all in. “By September, I was registered for Ironman. That escalated quickly!”

Triathlon also gave her an excuse to embrace something she now proudly calls “fueling.” “You mean I get to eat loads and call it training? Sign me up.”

Training for the Big Goals

Ophelia’s training plan is as ambitious as her race calendar. A typical week includes:

• 2 swim sessions

• 3–4 bike sessions (mix of outdoor rides, intervals, and brick workouts)

• 4–5 runs

• Mobility + recovery work

“It’s basically a part-time job,” she says. “I’m not working full-time right now, which helps—but the balance is still tricky. Rest and fuelling properly are things I’ve had to learn the hard way.”

The Mental Game

Despite her progress, Ophelia is honest about the challenges—especially the mental ones.

“I’ve never thought of myself as sporty. I still struggle with comparison, especially on platforms like Strava. I’m not fast, and that can get in my head.”

But endurance sport has helped shift her mindset. “I’ve learned to respect my body more, even when it’s not easy. I remind myself: I don’t have to do this—I get to do this.”

When motivation is low, she visualises the finish line. “I’ve cried at every PB so far—happy tears! I picture myself crossing the line and how proud I’ll feel. That keeps me moving.”

The Bigger Picture

With Ironman 70.3 on the horizon and the Blenheim Weekend Warrior challenge lined up for June (yes—multiple triathlons in one weekend), 2025 is shaping up to be a milestone year for Ophelia.

“I love doing things that sound a bit ridiculous. The kind of goals that make you nervous—that’s where the magic happens.”

Her advice to anyone thinking about triathlon or setting a bold goal?

“Start before you’re ready. I had no idea what I was doing, but I showed up anyway. You’ll surprise yourself—and maybe fall in love with it like I did.”

Whether it’s your first 5K or your first triathlon, Women in Tri UK is here to support you every step, stroke, and pedal of the way. Inspired by Ophelia’s story? Why not set your own challenge this year—and see just how far you can go? Join our community here