Matt Freitas
“I can’t say enough positive things about working with Gu. He is truly the most supportive and detail-oriented coach I’ve ever worked with. From day one, he took the time to understand my personal goals, strengths, and limitations, and created a training plan that was perfectly tailored to me.
What really stands out is Gu’s attention to detail. He cares about the data, which has lead to much of my success in endurance sports; from small adjustments in intensity to how I’m feeling mentally on any given day. He’s not just coaching my physical performance but helping me cultivate a mindset that enables me to give my best in every session. No two days are the same, and he adjusts the training plan based on how I’m progressing, which has helped me reach milestones I never thought possible.
Gu’s encouragement is unwavering. He often sets goals that I don’t think are possible, and I’m amazed when we smash them together! I have never felt like “just another athlete” – Gu is genuinely invested in my journey and success. I feel like I’m finding the magic in my performance, and that’s all thanks to his guidance. If you’re looking for a mentor who’s dedicated, insightful, and committed to bringing out the best in you, Gu is the one.”
Clay Billion
“It took years of convincing myself that I needed help. I’ve been working closely with Gu and have gained a new sense of what it means to have fun while also performing at a high-level. He knows exactly when to push me, and when to pull back. A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders knowing my training/programming is in experienced hands. We’re all busy and training is hard enough—Gu provides me my training plan at least a week ahead, so we can adjust and ultimately succeed and reach my goals.”
Kate Williams
“Before I started working with Gu, I had already completed a few races on my own, but I quickly realized I needed someone to push me further, both physically and mentally. Gu has been instrumental in helping me reach new milestones in my training, knowing exactly when to push me to my limits and when to remind me that rest and recovery are just as important. Whether it’s through targeted training plans, personalized feedback, or a simple reminder to take care of myself, Gu’s approach is balanced and deeply intuitive. More than just a coach, Gu has become a true friend. He cares about my overall well-being, not just my athletic performance, and he consistently shows that he’s invested in me as a person. His passionate demeanor and thoughtful guidance have helped me build mental toughness and confidence. What sets Gu apart is his own journey as an outstanding athlete—his discipline and dedication to the sport are contagious, and he inspires me to reach beyond what I thought was possible. With Gu, I’ve learned that being an athlete isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about balance, mindset, and resilience. He has helped me redefine what it means to push my limits, both in and out of training.”
Sarah O’Connor
“Getting a coach was the best decision I could have made to prepare for my first Ironman, but finding the right coach who truly understands your goals, work life balance and knows how to push you is critical. Gu is all that and beyond! As a beginner coming into this I was nervous and confused with all the training plans and gear out there. I had so many "newbie" questions but Gu continued to amaze me with his patience and understanding. He reassured me when I was doubtful, he cheered me on when I hit my PR's and he checked in with me to make sure I was able to balance work, personal life and training. He believed in me before I believed in myself and put me up against some hard battles (long bricks) and before you knew it my confidence was boosted and I knew I was ready to dominate! Coach Gu, you are such a leader, thank you for getting me to where I am today, we are just getting started :)”
Jessie Moffett
“When I tell people I do Ironman, I hear a few comments about how crazy I am or how hard it must be. But the top comment is that Ironman must be lonely…They must not have Gu in their lives. Gu and I built our friendship and established trust in each other immediately. Gu encourages honesty in everything… in training, mental health, priorities, and goals. Gu has kept me realistic (sometimes my ambition is stronger than my legs) while helping me reach every single one of my goals (I am an Ironman, law student, and constantly having small wins). More importantly, he has shown me the value of the relationships we build along the way. Through endurance sports, I have made so many lasting friendships and have learned so much from incredible mentors like Gu and our friends at FTC. It’s a privilege just to know Gu, but it is a true honor to call him my friend and coach!”
Annie Swierczek
“I’ve had the privilege of being coached by Gu for the past year, and in that time, he has taught me so much about triathlon and truly cares about my success. His commitment to his athletes is unparalleled—he dedicates significant time to communication, and his passion for coaching is evident in everything he does. I have complete trust in his curated training plans for my race goals and the results I’ve achieved under his guidance have been incredible. I couldn’t recommend him more highly!”
Jackson Palmer
“Working with Gu has been nothing short of amazing. Not just because he’s a great coach, but because he’s an even better mentor. Gu cares more about the relationship than anything, & that is where he separates himself from the rest. He’s helped me grow as both an athlete & human, pushing my limits both in & out of training. I wouldn’t be the athlete & human I am today without him.”