VALA ambassador: Dominic Davies
Super stoked to introduce you all to our newest ambassador @dom_davies_tri. I love to support our emerging young athletes and at only 16, Dom already has some incredible achievements under his belt and a bright future ahead of him.
Dom was originally a full-time swimmer who turned his attention to triathlon after seeing one of his parents compete in Gower Triathlon. Since discovering triathlon in 2015, he has competed in approximately 20 triathlons, the first of which were Carmarthen Junior Pool Triathlon and Llanelli Duathlon.
Since then, Dom competed for two years in the British Youth and Junior Super Series and has also competed in the British Duathlon Championships. On top of this, he placed 3rd in the Welsh Junior Super Series.
Dom is committed to his training whilst still in full-time education and fits his training around school in order to maintain a healthy social/education/training balance.
Hi Dom, can you tell us a bit about what inspired you to get into triathlon?
My dad had competed in a few local triathlons (Gower & Swansea), which is why I started. I have taken part in multi-sport since I was about 12 - my first event was Llanelli Duathlon and Carmarthen Pool Triathlon. Once I turned 13, I was able to take part in sprints and in 2019 and 2020 I competed in the British Youth and Junior Super Series (BYJSS) and placed 3rd in the Welsh Youth Super Series.
How long have you been doing triathlon for?
I have been a locally competitive triathlete for three years but have been competing for a total of five years.
What’s your favourite thing about it?
I started off as a swimmer but now I am more fond of cycling. I prefer the freedom of being out on the open roads and exploring the hills and views of Wales.
Where’s your favourite place to train?
I love cycling up the Black Mountains and around Carmarthen (basically anywhere with nice hills!).
What keeps you motivated on days when it seems harder than usual?
The thought of challenging myself and seeing how far I can push my body until I can see the rewards from the effort I put in on those harder days.
Is there a specific athlete in your field that inspires you and what do you admire about them?
My original inspiration was my dad as he was the person who introduced me to the sport. However, the professional athlete that inspires me most is Lionel Sanders - he turned his life around is now one of the most prolific long distance athletes in the world.
Why do you enjoy using VALA?
I find other gel brands too uncomfortable and heavy - until I discovered VALA I didn’t tend to use energy gels.
What does ‘natural sports nutrition’ mean to you?
Easier to digest, easier to ingest, better quality nutrition and less chemical tasting.
What are your top three tips for someone else thinking of getting into triathlon?
1. Make sure you set small attainable goals to keep you motivated.
2. Slowly build the training up, don’t throw yourself straight into the deep end.
3. Make sure you believe in yourself and your capabilities otherwise you will quit before you start.
(P.S. I learnt most of these myself from past experiences).
