HUUB Academy launch supports sporting ambitions
A new club for budding youngsters and adults looking to enter their first triathlon has been launched in Derby.
The HUUB Academy is the brainchild of Dean Jackson the owner of triathlon wetsuit and kit company HUUB Design and long-established triathlon coach Hilary Johnson – the mother and coach of elite triathlete twins Tom and David Bishop.
Based at HUUB Design’s offices at the Park Bikeworks in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, The HUUB Academy already has more than 20 junior and adult members and a weekly training programme.
Hilary Johnson is a former social worker who has run her own personal trainer and coaching business HJ Coaching for the past three years.
A former cyclo cross national champion, she is also the team manager for the East Midlands Inter Regional Championships Triathlon Team and a level three British Triathlon coach and mentor for the organisation.
She has been joined by Jason Jones who is also a highly-qualified coach and has represented Wales in the Commonwealth Games’ triathlon events.
She explained: “The aims of the HUUB Academy is that it is a friendly and inclusive club – supporting youngsters and adults alike to develop their skills and compete in the growing local triathlon and duathlon calendar.
“Many of our members want to train with all three triathlon sports of swim, cycle and run but others prefer to concentrate on one discipline which is fine.
“Our main objective is for everyone to enjoy their sport and to break down the barriers to them participating at whatever level they choose.”
HUUB Design’s Dean Jackson continued: “As triathlon kit designers, we work with some of the top triathletes in the world such as the Brownlee brothers and have always been keen to support younger sports people as part of their elite pathway – including the Bishops.
“I have been keen to develop this further and set up an Academy to introduce more young people and adults into the sport and support them on their development journey.
“Our sister company HUUB Events is the driving force behind the Jenson Button Trust Triathlon which will be held at Markeaton Park on Sunday July 23 and the new Staunton Harold Triathlon on Sunday June 11.
“Many local people are joining these and other events and had asked us to help with their training. We have also incorporated junior competitions at both of these events to make it something for everyone to enjoy.
“I am therefore delighted that Hilary and Jason have agreed to lead The HUUB Academy. They have the perfect combination of coaching skills, passion for the sport and a great sense of fun to ensure that everyone achieves their own personal goals and really enjoys the whole experience.”
