Athlete Profile – Luke Smythe
Today’s athlete profile: Luke Smythe. Keep an eye out – more athlete stories to follow.
Luke has been competing in Adventurethon since he was 15. We have loved watching him improving and being more competitive each year. You will always see his family there supporting him and pitching in around the place if it’s needed. This year is an exciting one as he will be racing amongst a top selection athletes and has a chance at a podium finish. We wish him all the best.
Have you always been active? Yes, since I can remember my family has always embraced the outdoors
Why Adventurethon? It’s local and offers the 3 disciplines that I enjoy most (have never been a good swimmer, don’t enjoy it so I don’t compete inTriathlons)
Tell us about why do you do off road events More entertaining than road running or sitting in the saddle of a road bike for countless hours, great adrenalin rush, the places it takes you and most of all the adventure of the unknown
Do you think you could take home a win? Not overall, but I am excited that this will be my first year where I feel fit enough to be competitive with the top contenders. If all goes well on the day maybe a podium finish.
Where do you feel your strengths lie? Running and paddling. My running has always been my strength out of the 3 but this year I have been focusing on improving my paddling(which is usually my weakest leg)
Who inspires you to push yourself? Sam Stedman – I am forever chasing his ass in training!!
Describe the atmosphere on magnetic island during race weekend? The island sets a relaxing atmosphere, the venue always has a great crowd around to cheer runners on to the finish line and the comradeship between competitors on the day as they all support each other to finish.
Where do you live and play? Grew up and live in Townsville. My stomping grounds are the Douglas tracks as most convenient to where I live.
How important is your support crew to achieving your goals? Crucial – where would I be without mum putting sunscreen on me?? Always good to know there are family and friends supporting you along the way, giving you a cheer at checkpoints and waiting at the finish.
What does your race day breakfast look like? 4 weet bixs with a mountain of muesli on top.
What’s the one piece of equipment that goes with you to every race and why? Chafe cream – there wouldn’t be any of me left if I didn’t!!!
What piece of advice would you give someone attempting their first Adventurethon? Stay hydrated and have a nutrition plan. On race day have a positive attitude as this will help you overcome any obstacles.
How do you feel about the home turf advantage? Knowing the course is always a great plus. I believe the biggest advantage will be in the running leg due to the technical terrain in some areas.