Kelly Smith is a trailblazer in the UK triathlon community, known for her pioneering work as the founder of The Black Tri Tribe (BTT), the first triathlon club specifically for Black people in the UK. On this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, Kelly shares her inspiring journey from a private triathlon enthusiast to a public advocate for inclusivity in sports. Kelly's initial foray into triathlons was a personal endeavour, but her passion for the sport soon evolved into a mission to break down barriers and create a supportive community for Black athletes. She first spoke about her experiences on the Tough Girl Podcast on February 24th, 2022, detailing the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led to the creation of BTT. In September 2022, Kelly officially launched The Black Tri Tribe, starting with a survey to understand the needs and barriers within the triathlon community. The feedback highlighted a recurring theme: the need for greater inclusion. BTT was born as a community organisation dedicated to addressing these issues, organising events, and fostering a welcoming environment for its members. Throughout the episode, Kelly discusses the highs and lows of running BTT while working a full-time job, including the expansion of the club from Brighton and London to Birmingham. She shares insights from hosting panel discussions on diversifying triathlon, and the importance of community support in maintaining motivation when things get tough. Kelly's commitment to BTT goes beyond organising events; it's about creating a space where Black people and People of Colour feel welcomed and supported in the outdoors. Despite the challenges and the risk of burnout, her dedication remains unwavering, driven by the belief in the power of community and the importance of inclusivity in sports. Tune in to hear Kelly Smith's story, her vision for BTT, and her advice for anyone considering taking up triathlons: "Why you should ‘Try a Ting’.” Join us as we celebrate the journey of a remarkable woman making a significant impact in the world of triathlon. *** Don't miss the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 AM UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast is proudly sponsored by INOV8, pioneers in cutting-edge sportswear. Use code TOUGHGIRL15 to get your 15% discount. Click Here. *** Show notes Who is Kelly SmithBeing the founder of The Black Tri Tribe (BTT)First speaking to Kelly on the Tough Girl Podcast - Feb 24th 2022 - Kelly Smith - On the Go - Being passionate about the outdoors. Keep her triathlons private Spending a year doing different things, from swimming to SUPs Being asked about her triathlons Signing up for a local triathlon event Starting the BTT in September 2022Starting with a survey to find out what was missing Living in an echo chamber via social media Figuring out what were the barriers were Having - inclusion come up over and over againWhy the BTT is a community organisationPutting on eventsThe next steps in building the BTTStarting with the social mediaBeing receptive to feedback Finding out the distances that people want to do What is realistic?Is a sprint triathlon entry level?The BTT specialNot enjoying running Why can’t tri including walkingSpending a year figuring out her lifeNot being very good at adminNot asking for helpGetting a committee together - June 2023Getting admin help November 2023Expanding from Brighton and London to Birmingham People didn’t know where to get gear from People needing support from their community Hosting panel discussion - on how to diversify the sport of triathlonWorking a full time job and running BTTNot sleeping and feeling close to burn outMaking thing happen - takes hard work and consistencyNot being able to train Not having life - BTT has become her life Having bills to pay and funding the BTTThe opportunity cost How long can Kelly do this for Getting burnout by social interaction and not by the workThe quiet yearWhy don’t Black people go into the outdoors?Gaining a variety of new qualifications Not expecting it to be so difficult Maintaining motivation levels when things aren’t going to planBeing supported by her communityWomen supporting womenThe power of having other people believing in youWhy things can just take timeSue - member of the BTT - her story and doing a BTT Special Triathlon Future plans for the next 6 monthsEbony Hikers Walks Triathlon 7th June 2025 - tickets are available nowWhy the triathlon is for everyoneWhy the training session are for Black people and People of Colour onlyAiming to be as inclusive as possible The minority within the minority Why the day of the triathlon is a celebration Why we are the most connected and most disconnected we’ve ever beenHow to connect with KellyHow the events have grown over the ...
