418 Sam Laidlow - Kona Runner-up & Bike Course Record Breaker on Debut!

Sam Laidlow lead for most of the race at his Kona debut, eventually finishing 2nd to Gustav Iden. He surprised many by obliterating the Kona bike course record and splitting the Norwegian favourites of Iden & Blummenfelt on the day. On his return to the Oxygenaddict Podcast, we talk about: How he burst onto the Iron-distance scene at Lakesman in 2019... What he learned from upsetting Sam Long at the Collins Cup... The race strategy & tactics at the front of the race in Kona... His power numbers during the bike leg and why he thought he'd gone too hard too soon... Why he plans to exit the water with a several minute lead at the next World Champs... The innovations and equipment decisions that helped him to his Kona result... The importance of building a personal brand as a professional athlete and why it's not all about race results... Why he'd prefer people to hate him than be indifferent about him... Smashing the Kona bike course record without a bike sponsor(!)... Whether he believes he can beat Gustav in future World Champs... Sponsors Like what you heard in this interview? Join hundreds of other age group triathletes making the most of their limited training time, training with Team OxygenAddict! http://team.oxygenaddict.com - The most comprehensive triathlon coaching program for busy age groupers. To find out more, You can book a zoom, phone or skype call with Rob or the Team here Watch on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TeamOxygenaddict Listen on Spotify: http://bit.ly/OATriPodSpotify Listen on Apple Podcasts: http://bit.ly/OATriPodiTunes precisionfuelandhydration.com Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fuelling strategies for training and racing. They provide educational tools, Sweat Tests and a range of electrolytes and fuel to help you perform at your best.  Take the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get a personalised plan for your next race. And then book a free 20-minute video consultation with a member of the PF&H Athlete Support Team to refine your strategy. If you want to try out some fuel and electrolytes to use during your training and races, Oxygen Addict listeners get 15% off their first order. If you missed the code during today's show, email James at hello@pfandh.com and he'll be happy to help.