The Unlikely Triathlete

Rob Hardstone
  • 5.0 (10)
  • FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join The Unlikely Triathlete with host Rob Hardstone for an entertaining and humorous, yet brutally honest celebration of the grit of the "unlikely triathlete" and everyday athletes defying the odds. From weekend warriors to those overcoming physical challenges, we share inspiring stories of triumph in triathlon and beyond. Featuring athletes, celebrities, and extraordinary individuals who’ve conquered the impossible, this podcast fuels your drive to tackle events like Ironman. Supporting the Green Mamba Tri coaching business and a sportswear line crafted for everyday athletes, we’re here to empower your journey. Whether you’re hesitant about your first race or seeking motivation, tune in for heartfelt conversations and practical tips. New episodes every week! Subscribe now and find the spark to cross your finish line!

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Couch to 70.3: Launching the Search for the World’s Most Unlikely Athlete

    In this milestone episode, Rob welcomes Matt Davies back to the show—this time as a permanent co-host. Matt shares his transformation from a "fat banker" to a full-time endurance coach, explaining how finishing his first Ironman acted as a "cheat code" that gave him the confidence to leave the corporate world and start his own business. The duo discusses the rebranding of the podcast to reach a broader audience of "unlikely athletes" and announces an ambitious new project to coach a complete beginner from the couch to a 70.3 Ironman finish live on the show. Key Takeaways: The Cheat Code Mentality: Finishing a monumental physical challenge unlocks a mental realization that "anything is possible" in other areas of life, such as business and career shifts. The Value of Coaching: A coach isn't just for elites; they provide beginners with accountability, life coaching, and technical guidance that saves time and money by avoiding common pitfalls. Rebranding the Journey: The show is evolving from The Unlikely Triathlete to The Unlikely Athlete to encompass ultra-runners, mountain climbers, and anyone pushing outside their comfort zone. The 12-Month Live Challenge: Rob and Matt are looking for one "unlikely athlete" to sponsor and coach for free, documenting their entire 12-month journey from start to finish line. Timestamps: [00:01:02] Matt’s origin story: Transitioning from banking to Ironman in six months. [00:03:02] Unlocking the "cheat code": How endurance sports change your professional mindset. [00:07:34] Leading from the front: Why coaching is built on shared experience. [00:13:00] Gear misconceptions: Starting with "rusty old nails" instead of $12,000 bikes. [00:16:30] Coaching as life coaching: Beyond the technical training plan. [00:30:11] Rob’s pivot: Moving from triathlon toward the Badwater 135 and ultra-trail running. [00:33:45] The Big Announcement: Searching for a candidate for the couch-to-70.3 live challenge. Coach To Finish Line Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefVVxT7zOG0dTLFxGiSyH520mo5tjEICe3sM1apm-4im_2qA/viewform?usp=header Matt Bio & Links Matt is a high-performance endurance and executive coach who helps ambitious business professionals train smarter, perform better, and rediscover what they’re truly capable of — whether that’s crossing an IRONMAN finish line, reclaiming their health, or simply proving mid-life doesn’t have to mean slowing down.  Mixing a 20-year career in senior finance leadership alongside years of endurance coaching and racing experience (from “fat banker” to Ironman — his words, not ours), Matt specialises in premium, highly personalised coaching that delivers exceptional value, blending world-class training, accountability, and mindset coaching for people ready to make meaningful, lasting change — with just enough humour along the way to remind everyone that Lycra is still never entirely flattering.* Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/matt_james_davies/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-davies-precision-coach/ Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Rob BIO Rob Hardstone, is a battle-tested IronmanU-certified triathlon coach with a knack for inspiring the everyday athlete. A former Crew Commander in the South African Defence Force’s 1 Special Services Battalion, Rob honed resilience during the Border Wars in an unsettled, apartheid South Africa. His daring career as a commercial saturation diver took him worldwide, facing life-threatening challenges with grit and luck. Despite his slight build, Rob’s passion for endurance sports drove him to conquer 11 ultra-distance triathlons, including 5 full Ironmans, 6 70.3s, numerous sprints, ultra swims, and 80km runs. Self-coached through trial and error, he now guides “unlikely” athletes to surpass their doubts. Rob’s humorous, brutally honest storytelling—woven with global adventures and hard-won lessons—sets him apart. Listeners will find unmatched credibility and inspiration from his journey, connecting with guests from all walks who’ve triumphed against the odds. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    53 min

  2. 8 APR

    From "Never Sporty" to Hyrox: Michaela and Celeste on the Power of the "Just Start" Mindset! Road to Triathlon

    Hey there sports lovers, on todays episode of The Unlikely Triathlete Rob hosts a "family affair" featuring his oldest daughter, Michaela Hardstone, and her best friend and fellow chiropractic student, Celeste. Moving away from the world of elite age-groupers, this conversation focuses on the "everyday athlete"—two busy university students in Durban, South Africa, who decided to trade their textbooks for trainers. From the traumatic "fainting goat" moments of learning to ride with cleats to overcoming severe gym anxiety and missed race starts, Michaela and Celeste offer a raw, hilarious, and deeply relatable look at what it’s like to be a beginner. They discuss their journey through the Thomas More Long Walk, their transition into CrossFit, and their recent "disaster-turned-victory" at Hyrox. This episode is a call to action for anyone who feels "un-sporty" or intimidated by the fitness world. Key Takeaways The Power of Resilience: Michaela discusses failing her first 80km walk attempt at age 16 and how returning the following year to finish it built her mental foundation for endurance sports. Overcoming "Gym-timidation": Celeste shares a vulnerable story about crying in her car before her first CrossFit class, proving that even those who look fit struggle with the mental barrier of starting. The "Fainting Goat" Phenomenon: A hilarious cautionary tale about the learning curve of cycling cleats and why falling over is just a rite of passage for every new triathlete. Embracing the Chaos: The duo recounts their Hyrox experience—missing their start time and battling severe cramps—emphasizing that finishing a race is about problem-solving, not perfection. Fitness for Mental Health: How movement serves as a vital escape from the high-pressure environment of medical studies (Chiropractic) and helps manage stress. Timestamps [00:01:30] Meet Michaela and Celeste: Balancing Chiropractic studies with a new passion for fitness. [00:04:55] The Thomas More Long Walk: A 16-year-old’s 80km battle with failure and redemption. [00:07:10] Celeste’s Raw Moment: Dealing with the anxiety of entering a CrossFit box for the first time. [00:13:30] Hyrox Johannesburg: Missing the start gate and running out of nutrition mid-race. [00:16:45] The 12-Minute Cramp: How the girls managed a physical breakdown to keep moving. [00:20:45] The "Fainting Goat" Story: Celeste’s first ride with cleats and a stationary car incident. [00:32:15] Training in Durban: The logistics of sea swimming and road cycling in South Africa. [00:41:10] Looking Forward: Goals for future 70.3 races and overcoming the fear of the open water. Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community

    1hr 33min

  3. 19 MAR

    From Couch to Red Carpet: The Brutal Truth of Training for Your First Triathlon

    Hey there sports lovers, In this emotional and inspirational episode, Rob Hardstone sits down with his sister, Brenda, to discuss her successful completion of an Ironman 70.3 in Busselton. Brendar’s journey is the definition of "unlikely," having trained for a year while managing diabetes, a thyroid condition, and recovering from the surgical removal of her gallbladder just six weeks before the race. The conversation dives deep into the raw reality of race day, from the 3:30 AM nutrition routine to the psychological battle against "survival mode" and pre-race physical pains. Brenda shares the brutal truth about conquering an ocean swim despite nausea and the surreal experience of "floating" down the red carpet at the finish line. Key Takeaways The "Survival Brain": Rob and Brenda discuss how the brain is wired for survival, often heightening physical aches and pains in the week before a race to discourage high energy expenditure. Nutrition as the "Fourth Discipline": The importance of mastering a nutrition plan cannot be overstated. Brenda shares how she overcame her fear of eating while cycling to successfully take in 80-90% of her planned nutrients on the bike. Training for the Unexpected: From dealing with the groundswell in the ocean to making "rookie mistakes" during the transition, Brenda emphasises how a year of consistent coaching and preparation allows an athlete to adapt in the moment. The "Tri-High": The episode captures the powerful, long-lasting emotional high of finishing an ultra-event, a feeling that Rob describes as lasting for two to three weeks and making one feel "invincible". Inspiration from the Field: Brenda recalls that her original inspiration didn't come from seeing "racing snake" athletes, but from seeing "unlikely" people—overweight individuals and those with disabilities—conquering the course. Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community HOST BIO Rob Hardstone, is a battle-tested IronmanU-certified triathlon coach with a knack for inspiring the everyday athlete. A former Crew Commander in the South African Defence Force’s 1 Special Services Battalion, Rob honed resilience during the Border Wars in an unsettled, apartheid South Africa. His daring career as a commercial saturation diver took him worldwide, facing life-threatening challenges with grit and luck. Despite his slight build, Rob’s passion for endurance sports drove him to conquer 11 ultra-distance triathlons, including 5 full Ironmans, 6 70.3s, numerous sprints, ultra swims, and 80km runs. Self-coached through trial and error, he now guides “unlikely” athletes to surpass their doubts. Rob’s humorous, brutally honest storytelling—woven with global adventures and hard-won lessons—sets him apart. Listeners will find unmatched credibility and inspiration from his journey, connecting with guests from all walks who’ve triumphed against the odds. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    1hr 28min

  4. 5 MAR

    The Power of Compound Gains: How Stephan Weyers Turned an 18-Stone Struggle into an Ironman Success

    Hey there sports lovers, In this episode Rob sits down with Stephan Weyers, a former sports lawyer and corporate executive who transitioned into a high-performance triathlon coach. Stephan shares his "unlikely" journey from being an out-of-shape professional weighing 115kg (18 stone) to founding Wingman, a global coaching business specializing in helping busy midlife executives conquer the Ironman. The conversation explores Stephan’s early days as a 10-year-old "boxing promoter" in South Africa, his high-stakes legal career representing top rugby stars, and the "trigger point" on a beach in Port Elizabeth that changed his life forever. Stephan provides practical advice for those who believe they "don't have time" for endurance sports and explains his philosophy on why a customized, flexible training program is essential for the modern professional. Key Takeaways The "Make Time" Philosophy: Stephan argues that "not having time" is an excuse; by analyzing screen time and utilizing "dead time"—such as during children's sports practices—anyone can find 15–20 minutes to start. The Power of Personal Momentum: Stephan's own transformation from someone who couldn't swim a single 20-meter length to a sub-11-hour Ironman finisher proves that boundaries expand rapidly with consistency. The Corporate Edge: Achieving an Ironman goal provides a "tri-high" that lasts for weeks, significantly improving productivity, alertness, and patience in a high-pressure workplace. Customisation is Key: Static programs from magazines fail busy executives; success requires a fluid plan that can adapt to sick children, work travel, and shifting deadlines. Diversity at the Finish Line: Stephan encourages anyone "on the fence" to stand at an Ironman finish line to see the incredible variety of body types and physical abilities that complete the race, proving it is for everyone. Timestamps [00:01:27] Stephan's early years: A self-described "lazy student" and "party guy" in Bloemfontein. [00:01:50] The 10-year-old entrepreneur: Organizing backyard boxing matches and selling tickets. [00:02:40] Career fast-track: Becoming a law firm partner and representing rugby legends John Smith and CJ van der Linde. [00:02:45] The health decline: Working until 2:00 AM on an office mattress and eating "garbage" fast food. [00:02:50] The Turning Point: Watching the electric atmosphere of the Ironman South Africa swim start. [00:02:55] Learning to Swim: The struggle of failing at one pool length at 5:00 AM in the winter. [00:03:10] Mentorship: Seeking out coaching legend Joe Friel to build his credentials. [00:03:20] Scaling Wingman: Moving to the US and growing a global athlete fraternity during the pandemic. [00:03:50] The Flip van der Merwe Story: Helping a legendary 150kg rugby player run a half-marathon in 2:20. [01:02:40] Final Pearl of Wisdom: Why anyone at any age can finish an Ironman. Stephan Weyers Links https://wingmansport.com/ https://www.instagram.com/coach.stephan.weyers/?hl=en Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

    50 min

  5. 19 FEB

    The Power of Relatability: Why Jake Bird is Redefining What a "Real" Triathlete Looks Like

    Hey there sports lovers. In this episode of The Unlikely Triathlete, Rob sits down with Jake Bird, a marketing consultant and fitness enthusiast who has recently taken the social media world by storm with his transparent, "warts-and-all" journey into triathlon. Jake is the founder of a marketing consultancy for health and fitness brands, but he admits he is very new to the world of swim, bike, and run. The conversation explores how Jake transitioned from a background in football and heavy gym lifting to documenting his first triathlon experiences for his large online following. Jake discusses the "imposter syndrome" of entering a technical sport, the reality of training while running a business, and his recent experience at the T100 in London. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who feels intimidated by the "elite" image of triathlon and wants to see what the journey actually looks like for a beginner. Key Takeaways The Power of Vulnerability: Jake explains why he chose to document his failures and struggles rather than just his successes, and how this "authentic" approach resonated with thousands of people. Overcoming Gear Intimidation: From "aero helmets" to expensive bikes, Jake discusses how the technical side of the sport can be a barrier and why he advocates for just starting with what you have. The "Hybrid Athlete" Balance: Jake shares his experience trying to maintain muscle mass from his bodybuilding days while building the endurance required for an Ironman 70.3. The "Kitchen Sink" Approach to Content: Why showing the "unsexy" parts of training—like waking up at 5:00 AM or failing at a swim session—is more inspiring than a highlight reel. T100 London Experience: Jake reflects on his recent race at the ExCeL London, including the unique challenges of an indoor-to-outdoor transition and the incredible atmosphere of the event. Managing Social Media Pressure: How to deal with "internet experts" and "keyboard warriors" who critique your form or equipment choices when you are just starting out. Consistency over Perfection: Jake’s philosophy on balancing a high-pressure marketing career with a demanding training schedule: "It's not about being the best; it's about being better than you were yesterday." Jake Bird https://www.youtube.com/@jakeebird https://www.instagram.com/jakeebird/ https://www.instagram.com/derive_apprl/ Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community HOST BIO Rob Hardstone, is a battle-tested IronmanU-certified triathlon coach with a knack for inspiring the everyday athlete. A former Crew Commander in the South African Defence Force’s 1 Special Services Battalion, Rob honed resilience during the Border Wars in an unsettled, apartheid South Africa. His daring career as a commercial saturation diver took him worldwide, facing life-threatening challenges with grit and luck. Despite his slight build, Rob’s passion for endurance sports drove him to conquer 11 ultra-distance triathlons, including 5 full Ironmans, 6 70.3s, numerous sprints, ultra swims, and 80km runs. Self-coached through trial and error, he now guides “unlikely” athletes to surpass their doubts. Rob’s humorous, brutally honest storytelling—woven with global adventures and hard-won lessons—sets him apart. Listeners will find unmatched credibility and inspiration from his journey, connecting with guests from all walks who’ve triumphed against the odds. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    1hr 12min

  6. 5 FEB

    From 18 Stone to the Start Line: Stuart Walker’s Unlikely Journey to Triathlon Founder

    Hey there sports lovers, on todays episode of The Unlikely Triathlete Rob sits down with Stuart Walker, the founder and event director of World of Triathlon Life. Stuart shares his remarkable transformation from being "nearly 18.5 stone" (approx. 117kg) and unable to swim to becoming an avid triathlete and industry leader. The conversation dives into Stuart's "trigger point" during a mountain trek in Peru, where being physically dragged up a glacier sparked a five-stone weight loss journey. Stuart discusses the "minefield" of entering the sport—from accidentally training in a surfing wetsuit to the common fear of open water after a childhood near-drowning incident. Now, Stuart is combining his 15 years of experience in the events industry with his passion for multisport to launch a major new triathlon exhibition in the UK. Key Takeaways The Power of "Not Yet": Stuart adopts the philosophy that "I can't do it" simply means "I haven't learned how to do it yet," emphasizing that anyone can learn to swim or ride with the right guidance. The Catalyst for Change: A traumatic or difficult physical experience—like Stuart's struggle in Peru—can serve as the necessary "trigger" to overhaul one's health and mindset. Moderation Over Extreme Restriction: Stuart achieved sustainable weight loss not by cutting everything out, but by cutting down and moving away from using "bad things" as dopamine rewards. Navigating the "Minefield": For beginners, the gear and terminology can be overwhelming; Stuart highlights the importance of finding mentors or coaches to avoid mistakes like training in the wrong equipment. Racing Yourself: At the heart of triathlon is the competition against oneself; the "fix" and sense of achievement at the finish line far outweigh the pre-race anxiety. The World of Triathlon Expo: Launching in April, this new event aims to make the sport more inclusive and diverse, providing a space for elite brands and affordable "challenger" brands alike. Inclusivity in Sport: You don't need a top-tier "cockpit" or expensive gear to participate; the community celebrates everyone, from elite athletes to those riding commuter bikes with baskets. Next Event - Saturday, 28 March and Sunday, 29 March 2026. BOOK HERE - https://www.worldoftriathlonlive.com/ Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community Stuart Walker Links https://uk.linkedin.com/in/stuart-walker-77352243 https://www.instagram.com/stuart.worldoftriathlon.live/ HOST BIO Rob Hardstone, is a battle-tested IronmanU-certified triathlon coach with a knack for inspiring the everyday athlete. A former Crew Commander in the South African Defence Force’s 1 Special Services Battalion, Rob honed resilience during the Border Wars in an unsettled, apartheid South Africa. His daring career as a commercial saturation diver took him worldwide, facing life-threatening challenges with grit and luck. Despite his slight build, Rob’s passion for endurance sports drove him to conquer 11 ultra-distance triathlons, including 5 full Ironmans, 6 70.3s, numerous sprints, ultra swims, and 80km runs. Self-coached through trial and error, he now guides “unlikely” athletes to surpass their doubts. Rob’s humorous, brutally honest storytelling—woven with global adventures and hard-won lessons—sets him apart. Listeners will find unmatched credibility and inspiration from his journey, connecting with guests from all walks who’ve triumphed against the odds. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    1hr 7min

  7. 22 JAN

    From Broken Collarbones to World Titles: The Professional Evolution of Two-Time Xterra Champion Bradley Weiss

    Hey there sports lovers, on todays episode Rob sits down with a true heavy-hitter in the multisport world: two-time Xterra World Champion and professional triathlete, Bradley Weiss. The conversation explores Bradley's transition from broken collarbones on the rugby pitch to winning multiple 70.3 titles and course records on the road. Bradley opens up about his "technical soul," explaining why he feels more at home navigating rocks and trails in Nature’s Valley than on the concrete of a marathon. Key Takeaways The Power of Small Gains: Bradley emphasises that the "addiction" to triathlon often starts with the rapid improvements seen at the beginner level. Don't Start with an Ironman: He suggests that the sport feels less daunting when newcomers focus on grassroots sprint distances rather than jumping straight into long-distance events. The "Why" Behind the Race: When facing a DNF (Did Not Finish) or a setback, Bradley recommends returning to the original reason you chose to do the sport to maintain perspective. Resilience Under Pressure: He shares a pivotal moment from the 2023 World Championships where he fought back from a five-minute drafting penalty to finish seventh, proving that a bad moment doesn't have to define a race. Community Spirit: Whether at the elite or amateur level, the triathlon community is defined by a willingness to help others, from lending goggles to sharing training advice. Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community Bradley Weiss https://www.instagram.com/bsweiss_tri/?hl=en https://www.bradley-weiss.com/ HOST BIO Rob Hardstone, is a battle-tested IronmanU-certified triathlon coach with a knack for inspiring the everyday athlete. A former Crew Commander in the South African Defence Force’s 1 Special Services Battalion, Rob honed resilience during the Border Wars in an unsettled, apartheid South Africa. His daring career as a commercial saturation diver took him worldwide, facing life-threatening challenges with grit and luck. Despite his slight build, Rob’s passion for endurance sports drove him to conquer 11 ultra-distance triathlons, including 5 full Ironmans, 6 70.3s, numerous sprints, ultra swims, and 80km runs. Self-coached through trial and error, he now guides “unlikely” athletes to surpass their doubts. Rob’s humorous, brutally honest storytelling—woven with global adventures and hard-won lessons—sets him apart. Listeners will find unmatched credibility and inspiration from his journey, connecting with guests from all walks who’ve triumphed against the odds. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    45 min

  8. 8 JAN

    From Major Surgery to Ironman: Brenda Goulter’s Unlikely Athlete Story

    Hey there sports lovers, in todays episode Rob sits down with Brenda Goulter, an "unlikely triathlete" from Perth, Australia. Brenda shares her incredible journey from being a 50-year-old inspired by a friend's Ironman to battling serious health complications and ultimately training for her first 70.3 in Busselton. Key Takeaways Take the First Step: The hardest part of any journey is the decision to start and being accountable to that choice. Manage, Don't Avoid: Brenda's story shows that chronic pain and health issues can be managed with the right mindset and professional guidance. Trust the Process: Discipline isn't just about training hard; it's about following the plan even when you feel like doing more or less than prescribed. Ordinary to Extraordinary: Anyone can achieve great things if they find their "why" and never stop moving. Social Links https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576327959322 http://instagram.com/rob_hardstone https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.hardstone Call booking link: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/sJX8bHdoj3P7cBoffJFC Green Mamba Tri Coaching Community Link: https://community.greenmamba-tri.com/communities/groups/greenmamba-tri-community HOST BIO Rob Hardstone, is a battle-tested IronmanU-certified triathlon coach with a knack for inspiring the everyday athlete. A former Crew Commander in the South African Defence Force’s 1 Special Services Battalion, Rob honed resilience during the Border Wars in an unsettled, apartheid South Africa. His daring career as a commercial saturation diver took him worldwide, facing life-threatening challenges with grit and luck. Despite his slight build, Rob’s passion for endurance sports drove him to conquer 11 ultra-distance triathlons, including 5 full Ironmans, 6 70.3s, numerous sprints, ultra swims, and 80km runs. Self-coached through trial and error, he now guides “unlikely” athletes to surpass their doubts. Rob’s humorous, brutally honest storytelling—woven with global adventures and hard-won lessons—sets him apart. Listeners will find unmatched credibility and inspiration from his journey, connecting with guests from all walks who’ve triumphed against the odds.

    1hr 11min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Join The Unlikely Triathlete with host Rob Hardstone for an entertaining and humorous, yet brutally honest celebration of the grit of the "unlikely triathlete" and everyday athletes defying the odds. From weekend warriors to those overcoming physical challenges, we share inspiring stories of triumph in triathlon and beyond. Featuring athletes, celebrities, and extraordinary individuals who’ve conquered the impossible, this podcast fuels your drive to tackle events like Ironman. Supporting the Green Mamba Tri coaching business and a sportswear line crafted for everyday athletes, we’re here to empower your journey. Whether you’re hesitant about your first race or seeking motivation, tune in for heartfelt conversations and practical tips. New episodes every week! Subscribe now and find the spark to cross your finish line!

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