In this conversation, Joe Skipper, a UK professional triathlete known for his Ironman achievements, shares insights from his recent bike accident and how it's shaped his training for Ironman New Zealand. He reflects on the challenges of last year and the contrasting experiences of racing in Kona versus Nice. Adam Clark, an ultra runner fresh off his 102km at the Tarawera Ultra, discusses the mental and physical hurdles of ultra-distance running. Both guests explore the unpredictability of endurance sports and offer strategies for overcoming setbacks.
Jack Moody's blend of excitement and nervousness for the New Zealand Ironman underscores the emotional and physical toll of endurance racing.
Joe Skipper's reflections on his recent bike accident highlight the unpredictable nature of training and racing life in triathlon.
The podcast emphasizes the evolution of nutrition strategies for endurance athletes, showcasing the importance of individualized fueling approaches during training.
Deep dives
Recognition of Athletes' Achievements
The podcast opens with a celebration of Tim Brazier and his athlete Emma Jeffcoat's achievements at the Napier World Cup, where Emma secured a second-place finish in the female race. Jack Moody, stepping in for Tim, highlights the pride and excitement in witnessing athletes perform at a global level, especially since Tim had multiple athletes competing in such a prestigious event. The dialogue conveys the camaraderie and support in the triathlon community, emphasizing how individual successes reflect the hard work and dedication of coaches and their teams. This recognition enhances the motivation for upcoming competitions, including the New Zealand Ironman.
Pre-Race Nerves and Training Adjustments
As the New Zealand Ironman approaches, Jack shares his mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness regarding the imminent race. He discusses the intense heat adaptation he's been experiencing while training, illustrating the physical challenges athletes face in preparation for such demanding events. The conversation reinforces the idea that normalizing long-distance events like Ironman can be misleading, as the toll on both body and mind is substantial. The hosts reflect on the unique struggles and preparations that accompany ultra-endurance racing, thereby setting the context for the significant undertaking ahead.
Challenges of Ultra-Endurance Events
A comparison is drawn between the difficulties of completing an Ironman and participating in a 100km ultra run, with the consensus suggesting that the latter may be more daunting due to its singular focus on running. Jack and the hosts point out that the monotony and wear and tear on joints from ultra-distance running can be overwhelming, with Jack acknowledging the mental and physical hurdles that come with such extreme endurance races. Personal anecdotes from past races, including stories of athletes who have experienced misfortunes during races, underscore the unpredictability of endurance events. The discussion serves to highlight the necessity for respect towards these demanding races, which, while appearing normalized in conversations, involve significant commitments and challenges.
Importance of Nutrition and Gut Health
The podcast shifts focus to the critical role of nutrition in endurance racing, with discussions centered around fueling strategies, particularly during Ironman training. Jack describes his recent exploration of a FODMAP diet, which has positively influenced his ability to consume and tolerate fuel during long training sessions. The dialogue emphasizes the evolution of endurance nutrition knowledge, suggesting that what was once considered impossible is now being redefined, as ultra runners successfully implement high carbohydrate intake without digestive fallout. The conversation illustrates how individualized nutrition plans are becoming crucial for endurance athletes in performance preparation.
Race Strategy and Predictions
As the conversation progresses towards race strategy, there is a shared anticipation about the New Zealand Ironman's challenging course and the strength of this year’s competitor lineup. The importance of maintaining awareness during the race is discussed, particularly about positioning and pacing against both familiar and new competition. The hosts underline the significance of adapting strategies mid-race, with reference to past performances influencing future decisions, especially in a field where many athletes possess strong running capabilities. Ultimately, the discussion culminates in a sense of excitement for the upcoming race, highlighting both the physical preparations and the strategic thinking necessary for success.
Jack is back hosting this week and we catch up with him on where he’s at with his training, diet and nutrition leading in to IRONMAN New Zealand this weekend.
We have a free race entry to give away to the Rarotonga Triathlon Festival.
Joe Skipper, UK professional triathlete is back on the show. Joe tells us about his recent bike accident here in Taupo and how it’s affected his training leading in to IMNZ. He reflects on the previous year's racing challenges and his thoughts on the IRONMAN series. Plus he shares his thoughts on racing in Kona versus Nice, his strategies for upcoming races and his overall approach to training and competition.
We catch up with Adam Clark after his 102km ultra at the Tarawera Ultra.
(0:06:36) – Jack updates us on where’s he’s at with training, diet and nutrition.
(0:12:02) – IMNZ this weekend
(0:15:53) – Race entry competition to the Rarotonga Triathlon