In the next of our Athlete Spotlight series the torch shines back towards Saudi Arabia and one of our inspirational female athletes Jude Jamjoom who has overcome personal adversity and clawed her way back to becoming the current Saudi National Time Trial Champion. We know this is just the beginning for Jude…
Age, Location, Profession:
27, Jeddah, KSA, Legal Associate and Entrepreneur
Why did you join RRC?
I was introduced to Will by fellow Rioter Ronald Rizk for an inspirational talk with the up and coming Triathlon Community in Jeddah (Jeddah Tribe), as part of our series of inspirational webinars to keep people active and motivated during COVID Lockdown. The Olympian’s inspiring, laid back, and humbled approach was super refreshing to see and it was there and then that I decided it was time for a change and for someone new to progress my performance (and it was by far the best decision i’ve made in my triathlon life).
How have you remained motivated to train this past year?
My coach, training partners, and family definitely kept me on track. And let’s be frank it’s not like there was anything better we could do: dodging contagion, and lockdowns during covid era… Training was a sounding board for sure during this time.
What is the biggest hurdle you have overcome in your life so far?
At the age of 18 I was morbidly obese, with a height of 166 cm and a weight of 120 kgs. I remember a time being miserable and measuring my worth or lack thereof by the number on the scale i.e. I was embarrassed to do anything that involved any physical activity (even if I knew I could, or just wanted to try) just because of the negative body image and perception I had in my head. I eventually got tired of being my harshest critic and the only road block in my way and decided to embrace who I am with lots of doses of self love <3. Once that mindset came into play I managed to slowly shed the weight over the past 10 years and never limited my curiosity again… Ever since the answer to “I wonder if I can do that?” has and hopefully will always be answered with “I know I can, now what do I have to do to get it done!”
What is your target race for this year?
Egypt 70.3 in sub 6hrs!
Which travel destination is at the top of your list when allowed and why?
Queenstown, NZ. It’s a scenic adrenaline junkie haven what more could you ask for!
What or who have you missed most during lockdown?
My sisters, brothers in law, nephews and nieces who are based in Houston, and Halifax.
What other talents do you have?
Cooking/Baking, organising and singing…
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If you want to follow Jude’s journey you can here: @jamajude
We have a few bespoke coaching slots left for the 2021/2 season, so if you wish to find out how Joining The Riot could help you smash your goals within a supportive, likeminded community then get in touch here.
