Testimonials

SHANTELLE GASTON-HIRD (GB Age Group Qualifier)

The Smiling Tri coaching team (Kate and Mel) create a warm, encouraging and empowering community. I am coached by Kate and can not fault the standard of my training plans. They are varied and challenging. I have adapted my training plan to my menstrual cycle with the help of Kate's expert knowledge and feel incredible. My energy levels are more consistent, I am more motivated and don't have the burnout hum in my body which I have had in the past. Covid has been a tough time for motivation but Kate and Mel have created virtual events with other triathlon clubs to keep us motivated. Great team, great community and top coaching.

MARK LANCASTER (Ironman Athlete)

I have worked with Mel for a couple of years and previously I have had coaches that seem to give very generic training plans and didn’t listen. With Mel my sessions are tailored around me and my lifestyle and work. Both Mel and Kate are super knowledgable and I feel they are both really invested in me and care about making me the best I can be. It takes all the guess work out of training and I know I will be ready to race and in the best shape I can be when I’m stood staring down the starting line. I can not recommend Smiling Tri Coach enough ... simple Awesome 👍

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NADIA KERR (Multi Sport Athlete)

Kate has been supportive, encouraging and welcoming. She has regular contact with me and it is when I need it. She is responsive to my messages and questions whenever I send them.

ELIZABETH KING (TRIATHLETE & SWIMMER)

I’m not a runner, but I’m certainly feeling like one now. I honestly can’t rave enough about the amazing support (psychological) and advice (practical) from Mel for my marathon training.
the reporting in each week meant that I stuck like glue to the advice and its paid off, I ran the wrexham 20 miler and enjoyed it!! I even managed a sprint (for me) finish. Next stop the Marathon.

KATE WOODWARD NUTT

I wasn’t sure if Kate would be interested in coaching a 50+ year old with a very limited history of exercise so I was delighted that, without hesitation, she took me on. Over the past two years Kate has supported, inspired, encouraged and challenged me to continue to achieve just a little bit more than I thought was possible.

My husband, Richard, is now also working with Smiling tri coach. He and I have very different motivations and different approaches to training and competition and the combination of Kate and Mel is perfect for us. They even coordinate training sessions when possible so we can have date night on the turbo!

ALAN LEONARD

Kate is always willing to give advice, never pushy and understands the pressures of balancing life, work and the commitment that is needed to be a Triathlete. If anyone is serious about competing in long distance events, a Coach like Kate is a must. All her knowledge and support is essential to fulfil your ambitions whether that is swimming a mile or competing in an Iron Man event.

RICHARD MARAIS

I have really enjoyed working with Mel at Smiling TriCoach, training for the Fred Whitton Challenge. Despite the chaos and unpredictability of my diary Mel has developed a personalised training programme that makes the best use my available time. The results speak for themselves. Since we started at the end of November, and despite the excesses of Christmas/New year, I have achieved a 9% increase in FTP and lost close to a stone in weight. Bring on the Fred.

LUKE CARTER (TRIATHLETE AND RUNNER)

My training has been so much more structured and focused since I’ve worked with Mel. Mel puts incredible effort into making my sessions work around my rota. I’m incredibly glad I have joined

MARK SLATER

All too often sport can become too serious when it should be fun. Kate has made sure I am enjoying my training and smiling. Makes all the difference to performance when you enjoy it.

KAREN HEGG

I joined Smiling Tri in early 2021 as I felt I needed the guidance and support of a coach to help me adapt my training around my busy work and home life. Mel has been amazing, my plan is easy to follow and I already feel stronger. She is so knowledgable and our monthly meetings always make me feel positive and focused on my goals. I can message her anytime for advice and feel really well supported. Thanks Mel.

BRETT JARMAN

Mel & Kate’s very impressive list of sporting accolades and qualifications speak for themselves. These two ladies have very big hearts and even bigger smiles!! They’ll support and help you reach your goals, no matter how big, small, or totally outrageous they might be! :)