IRONMAN Cairns Countdown

Less than a week to go

We’re now just days away from my first IRONMAN of 2025 — IRONMAN Cairns. Training has gone really well, with solid consistency overall. Aside from a minor cold a few weeks back, I’ve stayed healthy and injury-free, which I consider a big win in itself.

The year began with a focus on middle-distance racing, and after Singapore T100, we transitioned into longer IRONMAN-style sessions to prep for Cairns. Interestingly, it hasn’t felt like a traditional heavy IRONMAN build — training has simply rolled on without a big spike in volume or fatigue. That’s a great sign and likely reflects the benefits of another consistent year of work. Compared to this time last year (when I’d already raced IRONMAN Texas), I’m definitely feeling fresher.

I’ve spent the past two weeks in Noosa to finish my build in warmer weather and avoid any more illnesses. It’s been a great block, not only for training but also for reconnecting with friends — huge thanks to our friends Sue and John for having us stay. I’ve also jumped back into the JR squad for some solid swim sessions. Training-wise, I clocked 25 hours in the first week of being here in Noosa, followed by 23 hours the next — not over the top, just steady, consistent effort.

Now we’re into taper week, with just 8 easy hours scheduled before race day. Not many sessions left!

Nutrition for Race Day

This time around, I’ll be using a mix of SIS Beta Fuel drinks, SIS gels, Precision Hydration gels, and salt tablets. I’ve really liked the taste and feel of the SIS products in training, and it’s been refreshing to switch things up. I’ll be targeting 110g of carbs and 1100mg of sodium per hour. One tweak from last year is that I’ll carry more water on the bike — I remember feeling hot and thirsty in 2024, and aid stations felt few and far between.

Goals for Cairns

Top priority is securing that Kona slot — I’m really motivated to give the World Champs a proper crack this year. Of course, I’d love to defend my title here in Cairns. I think I’m in a good place to do it if I execute well, but I’m expecting strong competition from other pro women who’ve clearly targeted this race too. It should make for some exciting racing!

Ultimately, if I can pace smart, nail my nutrition, and improve on last year’s numbers (power/pace), I’ll be very satisfied no matter the outcome.

Good luck to everyone racing Cairns — enjoy it and never give up! I’ll see you out there.

Watch Live: IRONMAN Cairns will be live-streamed on YouTube. The race kicks off shortly after 7:30am AEST / 9:30am NZT on Sunday.

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