Rach McBride

Pro Triathlete

Vancounver, Canada

Rach has been racing full-time as a professional triathlete since 2011. They are a five-time Ironman 70.3 Champion and have numerous podium and course record results across several distances in the sport.

Known as the “Purple Tiger,” Rach is one of the strongest cyclists on the world circuit. They have logged eight Ironman 70.3 fastest bike splits and are currently a two-time Ironman bike course record holder. Rach is a three-time course record holder, including Canadian National Championships. They also love riding and racing their gravel bike!

Deemed "the most interesting [person] in triathlon" by TRS Radio, Rach is the first professional triathlete to be out as gender non-binary. They hold two graduate degrees in genetics and are an accomplished cellist, having toured the US and performed in Europe with various bands. Rach loves being a minimalist, spinning fire, and working in sexual health education and advocacy in beautiful Vancouver, Canada, where they live and train.

Accolades

2-time Bronze Medalist, ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships
5-time IRONMAN 70.3 Champion
Red Bull 400 Champion and record holder
Canadian National Long Distance Champion and record holder
2-time IRONMAN bike course record holder

Ask Rach

If you could spend a day with any other SMITH athlete, who would it be and why?

Mike Hopkins: he is full of adventure, laughs, and authenticity. I'd also want some pro tips on how to ride the single track as fast as that guy does!

What is your biggest fear or achilles heel?

I have reoccurring dreams of not getting to a start line on time and not being able to get through transition in races. Thankfully these have just stayed as nightmares and not become reality!

What's your go-to coffee shop order?

Long black (i.e. espresso with just a touch of water)

Favorite meal?

Pretty much anything with mayo.

What are 5 things you can't leave home without?

Lacrosse ball for rolling, a black tank top, headphones for tunes or podcasts, comfortable shoes, all the snacks.

If you could have one super power, what would it be?

Shapeshifter