Flora Duffy is one of the most ferocious cyclists to hit triathlon. Despite hailing from the small country of Bermuda, Duffy has been a consistent force on the women’s circuit since she started racing as a junior in 2005. But last year, Duffy amped up her racing to another level, cementing her name as one to be reckoned with.

While many top athletes enjoy the benefit of a team atmosphere at races, lodging with teammates and utilizing team doctors, Duffy goes at it alone. Often times she is the sole representative of the beautiful coast-lined country at a World Triathlon Series race. For many people, showing up to such a competitive environment would be an intimidating experience, but for Duffy she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Last year, Duffy started her season by winning the Cape Town ATU Sprint Triathlon African Cup, then landed herself on a World Triathlon Series podium less than a month later when she took third in Abu Dhabi. Adding three more top-five WTS finishes throughout the year, which included a silver medal in Edmonton, she capped of the season with an overall seventh place in the Columbia Threadneedle rankings.

But her talent did not only shine in the WTS tour, Duffy also secured a bronze medal at the 2015 Toronto Pan American Games, as well a World Championship title in Cross Triathlon in Sardegna.

“The 2015 season came as a bit of a surprise to me. I had a really good off season, which I spent in Stellenbosch, South Africa. I love it there. I think the biggest change from previous years, was just realizing what it takes to really be ‘professional’ and investing in it. For example, maximizing recovery, regular massage, proper nutrition and not cutting corners in my training,” said Duffy on having one of the best seasons of her career. “I also joined a great running group in Stellenbosch which really helped my running, and just being in a new environment motivated and inspired me. However, the two podium finishes and top 10 in the Series came as a surprise. I’m hoping to build on my 2015 success in 2016.”

Duffy started competing in triathlons at the age of seven. Right from the start she instantly loved it and became hooked. She won the race for her age group and then immediately joined the local triathlon club called the Tri Hedz. Because Bermuda has a strong triathlon community, she was able to compete in many local races, which eventually led her to competing professionally.

Now, Duffy splits her time between…