The Women's Race

Most athletes peak early and then struggle to sustain that level—Holly Lawrence’s journey proves otherwise. From winning her first 70.3 World Championship in just her second year to battling injuries, motherhood, and the mental toll of high-level racing, Holly reveals how her relentless mindset keeps her in the game and thriving. If you think success in triathlon is just about talent and early wins, think again. Holly’s story challenges you to rethink longevity, resilience, and passion in this candid conversation, you'll discover:

• The surprising truth behind Holly’s rapid rise and how she stayed motivated through setbacks.
• The mental shift that transformed her perspective from just racing to truly enjoying the sport again.
• How motherhood has changed her approach to training, racing, and staying mentally strong.
• The unique culture behind the PTO’s T100 series and why she feels so supported there.
• Practical insights on balancing family life with elite competition without losing joy or motivation.

We break down Holly’s evolution from a naive young athlete to a seasoned pro with a new perspective—fueled by gratitude, realistic goals, and a love for the process. Her honest reflections on injury, burnout, and redefining success offer valuable lessons for any athlete facing the ups and downs of a long career.Why does this matter? Because Holly’s experience proves that peak performance isn’t limited to the early years. With the right mindset, support system, and a love for the sport, longevity becomes a reality—along with fulfillment beyond trophies. Whether you're a professional athlete or a passionate amateur, her journey inspires you to keep going, keep improving, and enjoy every step.Perfect for endurance athletes, aspiring pros, parents juggling sport and family, or anyone seeking motivation to sustain a lifelong passion—this episode is a masterclass in resilience, perspective, and staying true to what drives you. Tune in and rediscover why the love of triathlon can last a lifetime.

Episode 1 of the Winners Circle! Each week we will highlight the women who took the tape over the weekend by sharing their account of the race. Hope you enjoy!

This week:

Grace Alexander's unexpected win at Gulf Coast 70.3 showcases the power of resilience and mindset. When the swim was cut, Grace adapted, turning challenges into triumphs. Discover how she managed her mental game, navigated competitors, and stayed steady through tough conditions. This episode is perfect for athletes and anyone facing big goals under pressure. Join us to see how obstacles can become your greatest victories.

The podcast features a conversation between host Jackie Hering and professional triathlete Sophie Evans, focusing on Sophie's transition to middle distance racing and her experiences as a new mom. The discussion covers Sophie's early career, challenges of short course racing, and the considerations of long course racing. It also delves into Sophie's experience at the Valencia 70.3 and her preparation for the T100 Spain. Additionally, the conversation explores the balance of parenting and training for both Sophie and her husband, who is an ultra runner.

Takeaways

• Transitioning to middle distance racing after a successful career in short course racing
• Challenges and considerations of balancing parenting and professional triathlon training

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to The Women's Race Podcast
• 06:35 Consideration of Long Course Racing
• 14:04 Experience at Valencia 70.3
• 20:22 Parenting and Training Balance
• 55:27 Joy in Family Activities

In this episode of the Women's Race podcast, host Jackie Hering interviews long course triathlete Hannah Barry. They discuss strength training, Hannah's background, her journey to becoming a pro triathlete, and her approach to racing. They also touch on the importance of consistency, mindset, and race day strategies. The conversation covers the dynamics of a race, race strategies, and the challenges of balancing professional racing with family planning. It also delves into the changing landscape of women's racing and the evolving attitudes towards motherhood in the sport.

Takeaways

• Consistency in racing is valued over a single good race.
• Listening to the body and paying attention to how one feels is crucial on race day. Race dynamics and strategies
• Balancing professional racing with family planning
• Changing landscape of women's racing and attitudes towards motherhood

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Strength Training
• 05:57 Injuries and Recovery
• 24:37 Mindset and Race Day Strategies
• 47:24 Balancing Professional Racing with Family Planning

The Women's Race podcast is introduced by host Jackie Hering, who shares her excitement and purpose for the podcast. The discussion then delves into the gender disparity in race coverage, highlighting the need for more focused coverage on women's racing. The conversation also explores race experience and preparation, shedding light on the challenges and strategies of professional triathletes. The conversation covers various themes including the Ironman competition, depth of field in women's racing, navigating unplanned outcomes, upcoming races and preparations, 'What I'm Loving Right Now', and creatine gummies and training. The discussion delves into predicting winners, the impact of the pro series, longevity and injuries in the sport, comparison with men's racing, financial support and travel, factors affecting depth of field, adapting to unplanned situations, managing expectations, flexibility in race planning, race planning and schedule, course familiarity vs. new challenges, training and race preparation, and the benefits of creatine and muscle development.

Takeaways

• Gender disparity in race coverage
• Challenges and strategies of professional triathletes The impact of the pro series on race planning and longevity in the sport
• The importance of flexibility and adaptability in navigating unplanned outcomes
• The significance of course familiarity and new challenges in race preparation

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Women's Race Podcast
• 31:16 The Ironman Competition
• 36:24 Depth of Field in Women's Racing
• 43:39 Navigating Unplanned Outcomes
• 50:27 Upcoming Races and Preparations
• 55:49 What I'm Loving Right Now