Jerlynn Goh - Marathon and Triathlon Athlete
Sunday Shades Ambassador, Jerlynn Goh, is certainly no stranger to sporting events. Having participated in marathons and triathlons, we’re interested in her training regimen and what drives her.
Profile
Sport: Running, Marathon and Triathlon
Name: Jerlynn Goh
IG handle: @j3rlynn
Facebook: j3rlynn.goh
1. When did you discover that this was your passion and that you were going to pursue it as far as you could?
I started running back in 2010 when a friend invited me to join a 10km race as part of a Corporate Challenge. As we were not runners to begin with, we began to keep each other motivated and committed to our training plan and eventually managed to complete the race together. Thereafter, I really enjoyed running and started to run more and longer each time.
2. Who inspired you?
I am blessed to know groups of like-minded runners and triathletes. Seeing how hard they train and how passionate they share their experience really inspires me to do better in the sports.
3. Have you participated in any major competition / events?
I participated mainly in running events and since completed 8 full marathon distance. I am hoping to toe the start line of my first world major marathon once we can travel safely.
I am also proud to have completed 2 Ironman (IM) 70.3 events, both in Taitung, Taiwan and Cebu, Philippines in 2019.
4. In your opinion, what was your best performance?
My best performance has to be my first IM70.3 race in Taitung, Taiwan.
From not knowing how to swim, to jumping into the lake and swam my personal best for 1.9km was the greatest achievement I will always remember. The bike segment was also not easy as we had to climb 10 km up a mountain as part of the route. I am just ecstatic to still able to complete the race in a timing I had never expected.
5. What’s your training like when training for a competition?
Training for a triathlon is definitely more challenging than a run because you need to balance all 3 sports. I would train 6 days a week, comprising different intensity of swim, bike and run. On my rest day, I would go for a yoga session to stretch out the muscles.
6. Do you maintain a special diet? If so, what do you eat? Are there cheat days?
I don’t usually watch my diet because there’s too much good food in Singapore! On days that I have trainings, I will make sure I have my proper meals throughout the day to last me for my workout in the evening. I will also try my best to eat “cleaner” and hydrate better for the weeks leading up to a major race day.
7. When not training for a competition, what’s your training like? Do you cross train? What does a typical week look like?
My typical weekly trainings for now comprises at least 1 run, 1 cycle, and 1 strength training. When the schedule permits, I will try to squeeze in more workout. Fridays are usually my rest day.
8. Do you see yourself as an inspirational role model for aspiring athletes?
Though I am not a competitive runner or professional triathlete, I do receive feedback that I inspire others in the sports. I definitely hope that I can share my experience and encourage many others to step out of comfort zone, start challenging yourself and make a difference.
9. Do you have any favourite training spots in Singapore?
You probably see me running in the parks and reservoirs more. I enjoy the greenery, sea breeze and the accessibility of many hydration points.
10. Have you always been fit and fab? Was there a time when you were not?
No, I couldn’t even run a proper 2.4km during my younger days. Even now, I wouldn’t say I am fit and fab but I am learning to accept how my body looks.
11. If there are readers who would like to get started in your sport, what advice do you have?
I would say discipline and attitude is the key. Start with a small goal and work towards it. If possible, do it with a group of like-minded friends so that you all can encourage and motivate each other along the way.
12. Do you have anything else about yourself you’d like to share with our readers?
On days that I am not training, I can be a couch potato and binge watch all the latest Hong Kong / k-drama. :P
Thank you Jerlynn for sharing the above interview with us! Although you are not a professional athlete, you have demonstrated that with the right motivation and discipline, we can succeed in sports!