The Endurance Race Journey: Personal and Professional Development

Introduction

[Update July 2024 - Following 3 failed attempts (due to COVID, Injury, or race course modification), I finally succeeded in completing the Vitoria Full Distance Ironman]

My journey with triathlon began a decade ago, and gradually evolved into a passion for long-distance races. The allure of these races, particularly the Ironman, lies not just in the physical challenge but also in the personal and professional growth they offer. Endurance races are a training ground for developing traits like grit, conviction, sacrifice, concentration, persistence, self-control, and handling frustration. These traits are not just beneficial for the race but also translate into personal and professional life, making us more resilient and focused individuals.

The Allure of Ironman Races

Ironman races, renowned for their gruelling nature, are my preferred choice for several reasons. They are set in breath-taking landscapes, from the volcanic terrain of Timanfaya to the serene lake in Vitoria, offering a unique blend of sport and nature. Racing on car-free roads, surrounded by natural beauty, is an experience that fills me with a sense of fulfilment.

The Solitude of Trail Running and Connection with Nature

An integral part of my triathlon training involves trail running, an activity that offers a unique connection with nature. There's something profoundly invigorating about being alone in the mountains, with only the sound of your breath and the crunch of gravel underfoot to keep you company.

Trail running is not just about the physical exertion; it's about immersing oneself in the wilderness, feeling the raw power of nature, and experiencing a sense of solitude that is both humbling and empowering. The inherent risks involved - the uneven terrain, the unpredictable weather, the possibility of losing one's way - only add to the thrill of the experience.

This connection with nature, the solitude, and the slight element of risk serve as a reminder of our place in the grand scheme of things. It's a reminder that we are part of something much larger than ourselves, a realization that brings with it a sense of perspective and tranquility.

In many ways, trail running serves as a metaphor for life. It teaches us to navigate the rough patches, to appreciate the beauty around us, and to find strength in solitude. It's these lessons, learned amidst the rugged trails and serene landscapes, that I carry with me into every triathlon race and every aspect of my life.

The Beauty of Open Water Long Distance Swimming

Another aspect of my triathlon training that I cherish deeply is participating in open water swimming events, specifically the Marnaton events in Spain. These marathons provide a unique challenge that is vastly different from pool swimming. One of my favorite races is the annual event in Formentera every May, where I have the pleasure of swimming alongside my friend Tomaso.

Swimming in the open sea, enveloped by the vast expanse of water, imparts a sense of freedom and tranquility that is unparalleled. However, it also stirs a shot of adrenaline within me, as the open waters harbor certain fears, particularly jellyfish. Childhood memories of being stung two years in a row have left a lingering apprehension. Yet, each swim serves as an opportunity to confront and overcome these fears.

The thrill of the challenge, the tranquility of the sea, and the opportunity to face my fears make sea swimming marathons an integral part of my triathlon training. It's a testament to the fact that personal growth often lies just beyond our comfort zones, whether in the open sea or in life.

The Humbling Experience of Popular Races

Participating in popular races, whether a half marathon in Madrid with 40,000 participants or more limited, long-distance with 3,000 triathletes, is a humbling experience. It's a reminder of the vast talent and determination that exists in the world, with countless individuals training rigorously to outperform their personal bests. This realization is not a source of discouragement, but rather an inspiration that fuels my passion.

Translating this learning to the professional world, it reminds me of the vast talent out there, that given the right opportunities, could excel in professional fields. This understanding has instilled in me a sense of responsibility. A duty to create and extend opportunities for others. Whether it's devoting greater effort to identifying talent internally or externally, creating diverse work environments, we can play a part.

Health and Well-being

One of the most critical aspects of training for long-distance triathlons, often overlooked, is the importance of self-care and injury prevention. Pushing your limits is part of the process, but understanding and respecting those limits is equally, if not more, important.

In 2020, I suffered a herniation while skiing, a pretty dauting setback. However, with careful rehabilitation and a determined mindset, I made a comeback and ran my first full-distance race in 2021. This experience served as a stark reminder of the importance of taking care of one's body.

Maintaining a strong and healthy body is not just about rigorous training; it's also about focusing on core strength, regular health checks, and monitoring the condition of critical joints like the knees and hips. Regular checks can help detect signs of joint erosion early, allowing for preventive measures and ensuring longevity in the sport and in life.

It's not just about how fast you can run, how far you can swim, or how long you can bike; it's also about how well you can take care of your body, ensuring that it can sustain the rigors of training and competition. And for this purpose, diet really plays a key role.

The Social Aspect of Endurance Sports

At first glance, endurance races might seem like a solitary pursuit, a test of individual endurance and strength. However, beneath the surface, there's a vibrant social aspect that often goes unnoticed.

Training is a journey shared with fellow athletes, each with their unique stories and goals. The camaraderie formed during these training sessions is one of mutual respect and motivation. It's a bond forged through shared early morning workouts, long-distance rides, and the collective pursuit of pushing one's limits.

In today's digital age, this camaraderie extends beyond the training grounds. Platforms like Strava have transformed the way athletes connect, allowing us to share our training experiences, achievements, and challenges with a global community. It's a space where encouragement comes from friends all over the globe. It′s about the friendships formed, the shared experiences, and the sense of belonging to a global community of athletes.

Moreover, the race itself is a social event. From the starting line to the cheering crowds at the finish, you're surrounded by a community of athletes and supporters. The shared struggles and triumphs, the stories of grit and resilience, and the collective celebration of personal bests create bonds that last long after the race.

Managing frustration and never giving up

Endurance races like the Ironman are a real-life course in managing frustration and cultivating perseverance. In events that span anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, the unexpected is to be expected. Whether it's a delayed flight that leads to a rushed arrival, a mechanical mishap during the race, or even an accident, these challenges are inherent to the experience.

These obstacles, while frustrating, provide invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability. They teach us to adjust our sails when the winds of circumstance change abruptly, a skill that is as crucial in life as it is in an Ironman race.

In our professional lives, unforeseen issues are not uncommon. A sudden change in market trends, a project setback, or team conflicts can disrupt the efforts of an entire team. In such situations, the lessons learned from endurance races become particularly relevant. Adding perspective is key - understanding that setbacks are temporary and often leading to stronger strategies. Focusing on the positive helps maintain morale and motivation, reminding us that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Keeping sight of the overarching goals provides direction, reminding us that the path to success or fulfilment (however you define them) is rarely a straight line.

Developing Grit

The prospect of a 2km swim, a 90km ride, and a 21km run can seem daunting, let alone double that distance. However, the key lies in focusing on the next step, the next kilometre. This approach, rooted in grit and determination, is a powerful lesson in tackling any large task, whether in a race or in life.

Balancing Training and Personal Life

Training for an Ironman race is a substantial commitment, but it need not overshadow your entire life. Striking a balance between training, personal life, and professional commitments is crucial to ensure one aspect doesn't eclipse the others.

My strategy involves training intensively for 4-6 months of the year, rather than all year round. This approach allows me to maintain a balance, providing ample time to engage in other hobbies such as songwriting, travelling, and socializing. It's a recognition that while Ironman is a significant part of my life, it doesn't define my entire existence.

To accommodate training without impacting my personal life, I've adjusted my daily routine. Instead of late-night TV shows or mobile browsing, I opt for an early bedtime. This allows me to rise early, refreshed and ready for training. Furthermore, I've made a conscious decision to only watch TV series while on the bike, turning training time into leisure time.

Balancing training with personal life goes beyond mere time management; it's about understanding your priorities and making conscious choices that align with them. It's about acknowledging that while Ironman races are a substantial part of your life, they are not the entirety of it. By maintaining this balance, you can enjoy the journey of an Ironman while also leading a fulfilling personal life.

I train on average for 1 hour/ daily (5 from Fri-Sun and 2 hours during the work-week) for 6 months. This is obviously for the purpose of reaching an average level in the competition. I follow the rule of 50:10, as opposedd to 80:20. You can achieve 50% of the result with 10% of the effort. It is just about being happy to be in the lower part of the race ranking, in essence, to be happy to be at a mediocre level.

This principle of balance extends to professional life as well. Knowing when to push hard and when to ease off is invaluable. Adopting flexible work approaches, such as remote working, can help better combine family life and responsibilities, or even enhance your travels at lower costs. For instance, at Leroy Merlin Spain, we extended the policy of two remote working days a week to all office employees. This flexibility not only promotes work-life balance but also contributes to a more productive and satisfied workforce.

Conclusion

While endurance races may appear to be a solo endeavor, they are far from it. The training sessions with friends, the shared experiences on platforms like Strava, and the bonds formed through shared struggles and triumphs transform it into a collective journey. The race itself is merely the culmination of this journey; the real beauty lies in the experiences leading up to it and the personal and professional growth that ensues.

In my role at Leroy Merlin Spain, I've found that the lessons learned from training have been instrumental in shaping my professional approach. The principles of perseverance, resilience, and balance have guided my leadership style and decision-making process. The culture of camaraderie and shared growth that is so integral to Ironman training is actually also quite fundamental of our company.

Just as I've learned to balance training with personal life, I've witnessed also how our company applies the same principles to maintain a healthy work-life balance for all teams. The implementation of flexible working policies, such as remote working days, is a testament to this commitment.

In essence, the journey of an endurance races is not just about the race; it's about the lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the growth experienced along the way. It's a journey that transcends the race course and permeates every aspect of life, including our professional endeavors. As I continue my journey, both as an Ironman athlete and a professional, I look forward to the challenges, growth, and opportunities that lie ahead.