Oxygenaddict Triathlon Podcast

363 Sara Svensk - from Covid hospital bed to Ironman Champion!

4 snips
Dec 8, 2021
Sara Svensk, a professional triathlete and medical doctor, made headlines by winning Ironman Cozumel 2021 after a severe COVID battle. She details her remarkable journey from a hospital bed to a world record in just four months of training. Sara shares insights on cardiac symptoms during her recovery, the role of myocarditis, and her cautious return to racing. With wisdom gleaned from both medicine and sport, she inspires those struggling with health challenges to believe in their comeback.
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ANECDOTE

Race Conditions That Produced Fast Times

  • Sara described race-day conditions in Cozumel: fast current-assisted swim, little wind, heavy rain, and a surprisingly flat, quick bike.
  • She rode 4:33 and ran 2:58 to win Ironman Cozumel in an Ironman-branded record of 8:22.
INSIGHT

Big Results Can Be Overshadowed

  • High-profile simultaneous performances can overshadow equally historic results by others, revealing media and fan focus biases.
  • Rob acknowledged Sara's world-record was under-appreciated the same day Christian achieved a top men's time.
INSIGHT

Tests Can Look Bad But Be Temporary

  • Post-COVID cardiac tests can show worrying signs without permanent structural damage, and abnormalities often resolve over time.
  • Stress MRI identified a temporary regional blood-supply issue, which doctors told Sara was reversible with rest.
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