If you have been in the triathlon community long enough, you certainly have heard the name "Slyer" before. A family filled with positivity and promoting & supporting active lifestyles. Triathlon has been a staple of this family, especially Julia Slyer. From a young age Julia could be seen participating in local races and helping her parents organize multiple events. She was immersed in the sport. Of little surprise, success has followed. But success is never a guarantee. She clearly has worked extremely hard on her craft.
Coach Kevin says, "To have the opportunity to coach Julia this year has been very rewarding. First and foremost, she is FUN! She has an energy that just makes you want to provide her with the absolute best. She is so versatile, balancing career, family, and triathlon...again, all with success!" Most recently, Julia finished 2nd in her AG at Ironman Texas. This performance came on the heels of an injury, a move, and all while getting ready to start her pediatrics residency. Congratulations to Julia on earning the May T3 Athlete of the Month!

A:   Julia Slyer, Averill Park, NY

A:   26

A:   About to graduate medical school and start pediatrics residency!

A:   Since I was about 3 years old.

A:   This is my first season with Kevin!

A:   I love racing at Kona, the environment in town during race week is amazing and the landscapes and climate make for really challenging and iconic race conditions. Plus you’re going against the best in the world, trying to get the best out of yourself!

A:   Absolutely my bike.

A:   Qualifying for Kona at my second Ironman at 19 years old, and getting 4th in my age group there as the youngest athlete that year! And repeating my Kona podium at my third world championships with a 3rd place AG and a massive PR.

A:   My main triathlon goal this season was to have fun at IM Texas and not get injured, and I achieved both of those! And maintain some fitness as I start residency to hopefully hop into some sprints this summer.

A:   Medium-term, I’d love to break 10 hours in the Ironman, and long-term my goal is to win my age group at Kona.

A:   Popcorn, Nutella, and eggs.

A:   Pop-country.

A:   Remember this is for fun! Don’t increase your training too quickly, and always pay attention to what your body is telling you. It can be hard to back off for a week for small niggles, but it’s way less fun to have an injury take you out for months.

A:   Listen to your body. It’s far better to be 5% undertrained and on the start line than 1% overtrained and end up out for weeks with an injury.

A:   .