TC Coaches

We have a great team of British Triathlon Federation qualified coaches working within the club. As a club member, you will benefit from their knowledge during each of our weekly training sessions. They are always on hand to offer guidance and advice to support your training.

Richard Hughes
Level 2 BTF Coach, Certified Conditioning Coach
Completed my 1st triathlon in 1998 at The Banbury Triathlon. Since then triathlon has been a staple in my life with racing for the UK fire and rescue service all over the world. Completing multiple Ironman races at full distance and 70.3’s. Taking on multi day stage events covering long distance swims then various bike/run distances over difficult terrains.  I ventured into coaching in 2007 to be part of other peoples’ journeys to help them cross the finish line, it gives me such a buzz to guide and help them to accomplish their goals. Coaching all disciplines truly enriches your life especially being part of such a great club like Team Cherwell. This has also driven me on to set up my own coaching service with people from all over the world: (www.peakperformancemultisport.com)
Alex Birch
Level 2 BTF Coach, Ride Leader, Personal Trainer
Since nervously lining up for my first standard distance race in 2013, triathlon has brought balance, challenge and a lot of pleasure to my life! After multiple 70.3s I completed my first Full Distance in 2018, the same year I hung up the suit and tie to become a full time Coach. Now an AG athlete, a BTF Level 2 Coach, a Level 3 Personal Trainer and a British Cycling Level 2 Ride Leader, I love helping others get the most out of this amazing sport. A Track and Pool Coach with Team Cherwell I also coach privately through my company, Triforia (www.triforia.co.uk)
Ruth Evans
Level 2 Diploma BTF Coach
After a long gap from competitive running, I started to swim to gain fitness and a friend suggested Team Cherwell for a bit of guidance on a rusty stroke. They welcomed me with open arms, and their tales of multi-sport adventure soon had me hooked on Triathlon. I got involved in racing and then coaching and discovered I loved both. Now a GB Age Group athlete at the Sprint distance, and a coach for Team Cherwell, I also coach privately through my business, Tri And Stop Us (www.triandstopus.com)
Helen French
Level 2 BTF Coach
I am a food scientist by profession but triathlon is my passion. I have raced consistently for GB Age Group squad since 2008 at both sprint and Olympic distance but also raced several 70.3 races in some sunny destinations ! Track and swim sessions are a favourite, drills, drills, drills - always go better with a smile on your face! Train hard, be specific and don't forget to enjoy what you do - isn't that what it's all about? #happydays
Greg Heath
Level 1 BTF Coach, England Athletics Leader (LiRF)
I'm a Level 1 British Triathlon Federation (BTF) coach and England Athletics Leader in Running Fitness (LiRF), starting my Level 2 BTF coaching qualification in February 2026. My triathlon journey began in December 2012,following a lifelong passion for swimming and running, I naturally focus on these two disciplines, emphasising technique and form. As a mature coach, I believe that age is no barrier to performance and personal growth, with the mantra of “age won’t change us, if we change the way we age.” I therefore have empathy towards mature athletes starting or returning to triathlon
Sue Willis
BTF Foundation Coach
I signed up for my first triathlon with my daughter 10 years ago, and we finished dead last! I joined Team Cherwell soon after, they taught me how to swim and navigate the world of triathlon. I have competed in all of the distances, including my first Ironman in 2025. I am currently studying for my Group Coach qualification so that I can help others enjoy everything our sport has to offer and give back to the club that has changed my life in such a positive way.
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