Becoming Brutal

In November 2019, Claire Smith became the first British athlete ever to complete a continuous Double Deca Iron Distance triathlon. 48 miles of swimming, 2,240 miles of cycling and 524 miles of running in 28 days, overcoming sleep deprivation, injuries and exhaustion in the process. However, but for a chance conversation, Claire may never have competed in triathlon at all - let alone achieve a podium place in one of the world’s hardest races. Growing up, Claire hated sport. Throughout her teenage years and as a young woman, she struggled with an eating disorder, abusive relationships, and the downward spiral of alcohol addiction. But despite difficult personal circumstances and an apparent lack of sporting ability, Claire found success and happiness in ultra-distance racing, pulling herself from rock bottom to compete at the highest levels of the sport. A true story of courage, determination, and a testament to just how far the human body can go with a mind that won’t give up.