Pamela Doyle

Tell us about yourself

I grew up and went to school in Tallaght, I work as a civil servant in Rathfarnham and joined Pulse in 2015.

What are you passionate about?

Triathlon has become a new hobby since joining Pulse which I enjoy. I also play the clarinet in in a concert band do the odd local function.

Where you into sports at College or School?

In school I played a small bit of camogie and did a bit of swimming but really hated P.E and always did my best to avoid it.

What made you choose Pulse?

I have been a member of Westpark for a number of years and have taken part in a few of their indoor triathlons. I frequently saw Pulse members in Westpark and was envious of them thinking that they looked fit and healthy. Several times I was very close to signing up but something had me afraid to make the jump. At the start of 2015 I was unhappy with life and felt that I needed to make a change. I saw the poster for the Pulse open day and after attending I knew it was what I needed so I plucked up the courage and joined.

What was your first race?

My first race was one of the Phoenix park duathlon’s. I was a bag of nerves on the day but enjoyed it. My first outdoor triathlon was Tri Athy in May 2015 which I also found very enjoyable.

What is your favourite and least favourite part of the race?

The best part of triathlon is the social aspect of the club, it is not all about the training, racing or trying to get PB’s. Everyone in the club is really friendly and encouraging. I have also made some good friends since joining.

Favourite memory in triathlon?

I managed to get late entry for the Dublin 70.3 which was really good. The sense of achievement in finishing and the support on the day was amazing.

What is your favourite club session / do you have a favourite sport out of the three?

My First Pulse session was one of the Wednesday track sessions which I still attend every week. My favourite session would be the Saturday spin. It is a great way to kick off the weekends, the coffee stops are an added bonus too!

Do you have any favourite equipment or some gear you wish you had?

I just got a shiny new bike which currently lives in my bedroom. I find it’s very easy to get caught up and think you need the latest and greatest gadgets but sometimes you have to take a step back before your bank account suffers.

Do you have any racing goals? – 2016 or beyond

In May I will be racing the Lisbon 70.3 race along with a group of Pulser’s that are going over. The aim for this year would be to do Dublin Marathon. I was considering it in 2015 but thought it was beyond me. I then regretted not signing up when I was supporting on the day.

Do you have a favourite race or one you want to compete in?

I’m still relatively new to the sport so feel I do not know enough to pick a favourite. This year I am planning on doing more national series races. It should be fun to do some shorter distance races where there is less pressure to train compared to the longer distances.

I’m looking forward to Kilkee, I supported last year but am getting a bit nervous about what I have got myself in for.

Greatest achievement in or out of sport?

I think taking the first step and joining the club was a huge step and I am very happy I chose Pulse. Looking back it still seems like a major achievement that I get out every week to the track session

Where can we find you when you’re not training?

I have just started the X Files from the beginning, I’m only a few episodes in so it’ll keep me going for a while.

What gives you inspiration / keeps you motivated?

Seeing other girls in the club helps you realise, if all these ordinary people can do all these amazing things, why can’t I? Other club members are great for encouraging you and giving you tips on what to do.

Words of wisdom for first time athletes?

If you are thinking of joining a club, do it. Don’t be put off thinking that you are not good enough or fast enough. Don’t need a tri or even a sporting background, the club caters for all levels

Don’t compare yourself to others, focus on yourself. You’re no less of a triathlete if you are training for your first race.

Rest when you’re tired. It’s easy to get carried away thinking you need to be training all the time but rest and recovery is just as important.

Do you have a sporting hero or hero in general?

I don’t follow much sport but would watch a bit of athletics. I think it is amazing what Paula Radcliff has put her body through to achieve what she has and make an effort to follow her.

Do you have a favourite book or movie? What do you like about them?

I love dirty dancing, the ultimate chick flick.

If you could have dinner with 3 people alive or dead who would they be?

Patrick Swayze – For the eye candy.

Amy Winehouse – An amazing artist and I think it’s a tragedy what happened to her.

The Queen – I think she would have some great stories and she might just introduce me to her grandson Harry!

Do you have a guilty pleasure or a cheat meal?

It’s really bad but chocolate, any type is good.