This week, on the hunt to find yet another inspirational person to chat to about all things fava beans - we managed to grab a quick chat with Laura Gray.

Laura is a keen Triathlete and Sports therapist. Her instagram bio boasts the quote "Great things never came from comfort zones" and quite frankly, we couldn't agree more. Automatic Bean Warrior status!

So Laura, what got you into triathlon?

I was involved with triathlon from a young age, starting out as a swimmer and picking up cycling and running at school.

I competed in my first triathlon about age 12, on a bike far too big for me and no clue what I was doing. It was here that I was inspired and since then have been obsessed! I competed at a high level up until age 16, before taking a break from all competitive sport.

I then started competing again at age 22, after reigniting my love for the sport at a local event, it’s now a lifestyle and my whole life! 

That's amazing! What do you enjoy most about triathlon?

There’s a few things I love about the sport. The first one has to be the people I’ve met along the way, some of these people are now my closest friends and I am sure friends for life.

Secondly, the places I get to visit. It’s taken me to some incredible destinations and I’m lucky I am able to travel to train and race, a huge luxury.

Thirdly, the buzz and feel I get from racing. There is often nothing quite like it, the support at races, the red carpet finish line feels, I wish I could bottle these moments up for everyone to feel! 

Can you share top tips for anyone wanting to get into triathlon?

Sure, here are my top three tips for anyone wanting to start triathlons:

• Find your local clubs, teams and get involved, it’s most definitely more fun doing it with a group of likeminded people and you will learn lots! 
• Have fun and when first getting started you don’t have to take it so seriously, just enjoy the sport, training is fun! 
• Reach out, it’s a huge community and people are always there to give advice! 

What is next on your journey?

I have a very busy year planned, my main goals for the year are Finland 70.3 World Champs in August and potentially my Ironman debut (am I saying that out loud!!).

Alongside triathlon I am also riding for a ladies cycling race team, so have a very busy calendar with that this year! 

Last but definitely not least, what is your favourite flavour of fava beans?

This is a tough one as they are all so good!! But it has to be a close call between Sea Salt & Cider Vinegar and Barbecue!

Depends what mood I am in, but it has to be these two and they are such an easy and flavoursome go to snack! Enjoyed even more with a nice glass of red wine, when I get to enjoy a small bit of downtime on a weekend! 

A huge thanks to Laura for taking the time to talk to us. She's got BIG things coming her way, and we're so impressed. Shop Laura's favourite flavours of fava beans here.