Strictly Pro Julian Caillon and Ex-England Rugby Captain Chris Robshaw to Compete in London T100 Triathlon
Strictly Come Dancing professional Julian Caillon, known for his footwork on the dance floor, is set to swap his dancing shoes for a triathlon kit. He will take on the London T100 Triathlon in the London Docklands alongside former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw. The duo, who met on the set of the dancing show last year, have become training partners as they raise money for the Kerslake-Robshaw Foundation.
A Unique Partnership: Rugby vs. Dancing
The 30-year-old Sydney-born Australian dancer spoke about the unlikely partnership. “Rugby versus dancing - it doesn't get much more different, apart from the length of your shorts at times!” Caillon said. “We're so different, yet we're trying to achieve the same goal. It doesn't matter where you come from, or what background you have, triathlon is for everyone.” He emphasized the community aspect, saying, “In a world where everything seems to encourage us to be indoors or, as we lose connection with the natural world and other people, it is invaluable to have a sport that has a community that encourages us to speak to each other while promoting a healthy lifestyle.”
Transitions from Theatre to Triathlon
Caillon, who made his Strictly debut last year, believes his theatrical background gives him an edge. “I think all the quick changes in theatres between numbers have prepared me well. I'm actually pretty good in the transitions!” he joked.
Respect for Robshaw and the Foundation
Caillon expressed admiration for Robshaw and his wife Camilla Kerslake, a classical singer, for their work with the Kerslake-Robshaw Foundation, which opens up sport and music for underprivileged children. “When I first met Chris, what struck me was how nice and genuine he is; you can understand why he was such a great captain. He's so encouraging and supportive,” Caillon said. “The work that Chris and Camilla have done has been incredible and the funds they have raised have been just sensational. After a successful career, it's easy to sit on your laurels and enjoy retirement, but Chris is actively out there trying to make a difference.”
Globetrotting Training Regime
Caillon's training has taken him to Colombia with his fiancée Sofia, who will also compete in the event. He recalled the early days of his triathlon journey in Sydney, cringing at his beginner mistakes. “I packed my bag for a wedding with my suit and nice shoes, and then I've got a helmet, cleats, cycling gear, speedos, paddles, fins, the whole lot,” he said. “Once my fiancée and I discovered triathlon training about three years ago, it's become such an integral part of our lifestyle that even if we're on holiday, we still try and find a way to go for a run, swim or bike ride in the morning to set our day up.” He added humorously, “It's quite funny when I look back at myself, cycling with sneakers on a bike I bought for a hundred dollars. As an Australian, we love anything that's outdoors. You get to meet people whilst exercising, and any sport that involves caffeine and a significant number of pastries, I'll always be up for.”
Robshaw on the Camaraderie of T100
Robshaw, who earned 66 caps for England, shared his thoughts on the event. “I think what is so great about the T100 is the camaraderie, and that's what you do miss when you retire. The competing, the crowds, the buzz, the excitement, but also the nerves. The nerves of getting ready to dive into the Docklands and start swimming. It is going to be tough, but then you want to get out and hopefully get everything on or my shoes on, at the right time and in the right place and all this kind of stuff.”
Event Details: London T100 Triathlon
The London T100 Triathlon, taking place on 25-26 July, will see Caillon and Robshaw join 5,300 amateur athletes swimming, riding, and running around the capital. The weekend also features British Olympic stars, including Alex Yee, Beth Potter, and Georgia Taylor-Brown, competing in the World Triathlon Championship Series (WTCS). The elite women's race starts at 2:30pm and the elite men's at 4:15pm, with live coverage on BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website and app, and Red Button in the UK.
