Bernews Exclusive: Interview with Triathlete Tyler Smith and Bermuda’s Olympic Journey

As the Paris Olympics approach, two remarkable athletes from Bermuda, Erica Hawley and Tyler Smith, are preparing to make their debut on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages. Their journey to the Olympics is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the incredible influence of their mothers, Julia Hawley and Karen Smith, who have been instrumental in shaping their athletic careers. Both Julia and Karen were accomplished athletes in their own right, with Julia having represented Bermuda in various international competitions and Karen being a national triathlon champion. Their stories of dedication and perseverance have inspired their children to reach for the stars.

Julia Hawley’s legacy as a former cyclist and triathlete is nothing short of impressive. She represented Bermuda in numerous international competitions, showcasing her talent and determination. One of her most notable achievements was finishing 14th in her age group at the Hawaii Ironman World Championship in 2009, a feat that requires immense endurance and mental fortitude. In 2014, she further cemented her legacy by securing 4th place in her age division at the Xterra World Championship. These accomplishments have not only brought pride to Bermuda but have also served as a source of inspiration for her daughter, Erica.

Erica Hawley, set to compete in the women’s triathlon on July 31st, has always dreamed of participating in the Olympics. Her mother, Julia, speaks highly of Erica’s hard work and dedication to her training and preparation for the games. Despite never qualifying for the Olympics herself, Julia is thrilled to see her daughter achieve this milestone. Erica’s journey to the Olympics has been a long and arduous one, filled with countless hours of training and numerous challenges. However, her passion for the sport and the support of her family have kept her motivated and focused on her goal.

Joining Erica in Paris is Tyler Smith, a two-time national triathlon champion who has also represented Bermuda at the Commonwealth Games. Tyler’s journey to the Olympics has been marked by determination and resilience, especially in the face of injuries during the qualifying period. His mother, Karen Smith, describes him as a ‘student of the sport’ who is always seeking ways to improve. Karen, who competed at the Commonwealth Games in 2002 and 2006, has been a guiding force in Tyler’s athletic career, providing him with invaluable support and encouragement.

Tyler’s path to the Olympics has not been without its challenges. He has had to travel around the world for competitions, facing various obstacles along the way. Despite these difficulties, Tyler remained positive and determined to achieve his dream of becoming an Olympian. His mother’s unwavering support and belief in his abilities have been crucial in helping him overcome these challenges. Karen is beyond thrilled for Tyler to represent Bermuda as an Olympian, and she traveled to Paris to support him during the games.

The journey to the Olympics for both Erica and Tyler has been filled with ups and downs. They have faced numerous obstacles and tough moments, but their passion and drive for the sport have brought them to this point. Both families are overjoyed and extremely proud to see their children achieve their Olympic dreams. The entire country of Bermuda will be watching and supporting Erica and Tyler as they make their mark at the Paris Olympics. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of having a strong support system.

In a recent interview with Bernews, Tyler Smith shared how he was inspired to become an Olympian after watching Dame Flora Duffy compete at the 2012 London Games. At just 14 years old, Tyler attended his first triathlon event while on a family vacation in Europe. He cheered on Duffy, who was 24 years old at the time, as she took on the world’s best competitors. This experience left a lasting impression on Tyler and ignited his passion for the sport. He even has a funny story about Duffy hitting a speed bump and losing a water bottle, which he sprinted to pick up and still keeps as a souvenir in his house.

Now, at 25 years old, Tyler finds it surreal to be preparing for his first Olympics and training alongside Dame Flora Duffy on a daily basis. He earned his spot through one of two universality places given to smaller and emerging triathlon nations by the tripartite commission. Tyler’s seventh-place finish at the Pan American Games in Chile last year helped secure his spot on Bermuda’s triathlon team with Duffy and Erica Hawley. He is grateful for the opportunity and acknowledges the support of his triathlete mother, Karen Smith, who has been a constant source of encouragement throughout his journey.

Tyler is focused on the task at hand and feels proud to represent Bermuda’s rich triathlon community. He credits his success to the support of his community and the people who have invested time and energy into his triathlon journey over the past 30-40 years. Tyler will have the chance to pay tribute to the coaches, volunteers, and race organizers back home when he stands at the start line on the Pont Alexandre III in the Olympics. He also plans to make his community proud and remembers all those who have given up their time to support him.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Tyler remains optimistic and determined to give his best performance at the Olympics. He still keeps in touch with his coaches from a young age and values their continued advice and support. Tyler believes this support system is unique to Bermuda and is grateful for it. Bernews will be providing comprehensive coverage of Bermuda’s athletes, including Tyler, thanks to their sponsors. Tyler credits his sponsors Butterfield & Vallis, Auto Solutions, Clarien Bank, and One Communications for their support in helping him achieve his Olympic dreams.

The stories of Erica Hawley and Tyler Smith are not just about individual achievement but also about the power of community and the impact of strong role models. Their mothers, Julia Hawley and Karen Smith, have played pivotal roles in their athletic journeys, instilling in them the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. As Erica and Tyler prepare to compete on the world stage, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their families, their community, and their country. Their journeys serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere and a reminder of what can be achieved with passion, determination, and support.

As the Paris Olympics draw closer, the excitement and anticipation continue to build for Erica Hawley and Tyler Smith. Their stories are a testament to the power of dreams and the importance of having a strong support system. The entire country of Bermuda will be cheering them on as they compete on the world stage, proud of their achievements and inspired by their journeys. Bernews will be there every step of the way, providing comprehensive coverage and celebrating the incredible accomplishments of these remarkable athletes. With the support of their families, their community, and their sponsors, Erica and Tyler are ready to make their mark at the Paris Olympics and inspire the next generation of Bermudian athletes.