Wes Sommer is an age group athlete that is part of the daily training squad, focusing on 70.3's and then in the fall marathon racing.  Wes is the "glue guy" for the squad as he's able to attend most of the group training sets and sets the tone for the group on most days.  Wes came from a run background to the sport of triathlon and works as a video director for 3C Institute in RTP that is an e-learning software company building programs designed to improve social, emotional and behavioral health in young people.  Enjoy this quick Q/A and if you like what you read give him a follow and kudos along the way.  

​1.  You've joined the AO squad with some tri experience and also a run background.  How's your swim training been going over the last 6 months?
 
I saw gains within a month and they’ve continued to grow. Paces I could barely hold for a 50 or 100 are now held for 500, 1k, 2k. Also, learning how to swim with good form allows me to conserve energy and be more prepared for the bike and run.

2.  Coming from a run background with marathon and half marathons, what advantages are you seeing with a multisport approach that is helping you?
 
Adding in a multisport approach has allowed me to get stronger and more fit on would normally be off or rest days. Now those days are spent on the bike, swimming or doing strength work. I was able to drop 3 minutes in my half marathon time with this new approach.

3.  What excites you about training with the squad?

Group trainer rides really helped get through the monotony of indoor winter training. Sharing triumphs with a group of people. Seeing other people succeed is just as fulfilling as your own successes. We all have different goals but the commonality is striving to be better.

4.  With the covid virus putting races and seemingly many people's lives on "hold", what is keeping you motivated through all of this?
 
Building in smaller goals, time trials and PR attempts in all three sports.

5.  If you had a weekend training camp, what is the destination and why?
 
Mountains all the way. Maybe Boone, Blowing Rock or Asheville. No better way to get stronger than climbing mountains.
 
6.  When the races do begin back up, what are you most looking forward to?
 
Putting all of the training, fitness and knowledge to the test.

7.  What's your social media handles or how can people find you?

Instagram: @wsommer1983
Facebook:  Wesley Sommer