This entry was posted on Monday, October 28th, 2013at 10:22 am by zoe.leahy@activenation.org.uk

A Savage Challenge For The Commonwealth Games

Active Nation is teaming up with a local triathlete who is heading for Glasgow and the Commonwealth Games.

Dave Savage will be representing the Kiribati Islands, where he was born, at next summer’s competition. Dave left the Pacific islands when he was just four, but the opportunity to represent Kiribati is one too good to miss. He took part in the Games in Manchester 11 years ago where he suffered a double puncture on his bike route, making him even more determined to complete the circuit this year.

Dave said: “I’m delighted to have linked up with Active Nation and thoroughly privileged to be using their extensive and up to date facilities. Perfect for the wide range of training that Triathlon demands. I don’t recall staff so willing to help with smiles on their faces regardless of the time of day! (Wow! Praise indeed! We promise that no cash has exchanged hands for these kind words!)

“Training is slightly behind schedule due to having had a 2 month chest infection, but it’s all systems go now!”

Triathletes have to complete a 1,500m open swim, before switching to a 40km road cycle and finishing with a challenging 10km run.

Dave added: “I train twice a day over the 3 disciplines of Triathlon, plus strength and conditioning work in the gym and yoga. I’m sure there are things at home that need doing too but they can wait!

“My training often ties in nicely with my coaching of others for Triathlon (my proper job!) Busy times but loving every minute and so fired up for the Games! It’s going to have massive crowds and an amazing buzz. And very painful but that’s what we all love right!?”

Dave lives in Southampton and has completed a number of charity events over the past few years most notably raising more than £60,000 for Southampton Hospital by swimming from the mainland to the Isle of Wight, running 50+ miles around the perimeter of the island before swimming back again!

Active Nation will be working with Dave over the next 12 months by offering use of the track at The Outdoor Sports Centre and access to the gym and swimming pool at The Quays Swimming and Diving Complex. He is also looking forward to inspiring local youngsters at the Active Nation Kids Tryathlon in Southampton next year.