MELISSA HAUSCHILDT | PRO TRIATHLETE

Published : 08/19/2020 - Categories : Stories

She quickly turned heads and within a short time was running for Australia and competing around the world in Steeplechase and Cross Country. After setting multiple records and winning numerous medals, an injury encouraged Mel to start cycling. Within one year, she had made a full transformation to triathlon. Within 8 years she has achieved almost the impossible across middle and full distance triathlon. Starting another big chapter this year, she recently became a Mother to little girl Dakota in January….

How did you get into Triathlon?

I got into triathlon in late 2010. I came from a running background. I was trying to qualify for the 2010 Commonwealth Games when injury struck. Instead of heading to the dreaded pool to deep water run like I usually did when I got injured, I went and bought a road bike and started riding on the road. I joined a cycling club and did some local road races. I fell in love with cycling...but I still loved running. Triathlon was a way I could combine the two so it was back to the pool to learn to swim. The swim is still my least favourite but I love combining running and riding and it paid off. I won my first half Ironman (first triathlon) in October 2010.

Which is the most important race you took part in so far and why?

It was probably my second ever triathlon - The Asia Pacific Half Ironman Championships in 2010. I came second to Caroline Steffan on a ́beaten up ́ old road bike and still had no idea what I was doing. That race gave me the confidence that I belonged and that I could actually be alright at this sport.

What is your favourite product from Compressport and why?

I have many favourites from the Compressport range, the full legs are amazing for recovery and the full socks are great for travelling, but I'd be lost without my Calf sleeves during races, so I would say they'd have to be my number one favourite. I also have to say, the new 2020 Pro Racing Socks v3.0 Ultralight Run High, are my new favorite socks. I´ve always been very sensitive with my feet and prone to suffering blisters during longer runs and races. But the new PRS V3.0 UL Run is the perfect thickness, that I don't have problems anymore.