Sports student helps para-triathlete train for epic challenge

UWTSD postgraduate student Matt Anthony is applying his expertise in sports nutrition to help para-triathlete Darren Williams prepare for an intense endurance challenge - cycling the length of Wales on a hand bike in just three days. This new challenge comes after a longstanding collaboration between Darren, Welsh Triathlon, and UWTSD, where the university has supported his mission to compete at the World Triathlon Para Series.

To prepare for this latest challenge, Matt has been working closely with Darren to refine his diet, hydration, and recovery strategies. As part of his training, Darren has undergone physiological testing at UWTSD’s sports science facilities, including a VO2 max test to assess his fitness levels.

“Working with Darren has been an incredible experience,” said Matt. “It’s shown me firsthand how theory translates into performance. I’ve researched new data to tailor his plan, using cutting-edge technology at the Human Performance Lab on Carmarthen campus to measure his real-time energy and fuel demands. He’s putting in huge effort, and I’ve been analysing his energy needs, food diary, and calorie intake to carefully plan his nutrition - essential for covering nearly 200 miles over three days.”

Endurance cycling isn’t just about fitness - it’s about strategic fuelling. UWTSD’s Exercise Physiologist Geraint Forster, who has been supporting Darren in his training, emphasised the role of sports nutrition in sustaining performance:

“Some of the biggest developments in endurance sports over the past decade have been in nutrition. Darren has excellent fitness, but sustaining his effort over three days will depend on perfecting his fuelling strategy. Our lab testing helps determine how his body uses different fuel sources at various intensities, allowing us to create a precise pacing and nutrition plan.”

Darren, who was involved in a motorbike accident in 2014, is taking on this challenge to raise funds for a young boy in his hometown of Cardigan battling bone cancer. He credits the support from UWTSD as a crucial part of his preparation.

“Working with Geraint and the students at UWTSD has been incredibly valuable,” said Darren. “The VO2 tests have given me a clear picture of my fitness, and I really appreciate the time and effort that goes into these assessments. For my upcoming ‘Length of Wales’ challenge, working with Matt has been especially insightful. He’s been analysing my energy expenditure, which is crucial for such a demanding ride. Riding for 6-8 hours a day is a huge challenge, so my fuelling strategy has to be spot on to keep me going.”

For Matt, this has been an invaluable hands-on learning opportunity. He said: “Applying my academic knowledge to real-world sports nutrition has deepened my understanding of adaptive physiology, challenged me to think creatively, and reinforced the importance of personalised nutrition in optimising performance at the highest level.”

This collaboration highlights UWTSD’s commitment to supporting local athletes while providing students with practical experience. With access to professional mentorship and cutting-edge facilities, students like Matt are gaining the skills needed to make a real impact in the field of sports nutrition. UWTSD is also proud to support Darren in his inspiring journey, using sports science to enhance performance while contributing to a meaningful cause.

Further Information

Mared Anthony

Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations   
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: +447482256996