IEU Athletics

Interview by Patricia Serrano, IEU Student

How did you come up with the idea of joining a triathlon team?

I have always loved sports and I have always tried to be active. During middle school I was part of the cross country team and I really enjoyed the experience. When I moved back to Mexico, at the age of 14, I wanted to continue running but unfortunately, I sprained my ankle and the doctor only allowed me to do swimming, which was a sport I had not done since I was six years old.

Surprisingly, I loved it. Once I was allowed to run again I kept swimming along with my training. One day I was at the pool when a triathlon coach came up to me and mentioned the idea of joining his team. After my first triathlon at the age of 15, I completely fell in love with the sport and I still love it today.

What kind of training have you done? 

The good thing about triathlons is that they allow athletes to train in three different sports, although this also has some bad aspects. In my case, cycling was a nightmare during the first few months. I only had some background in swimming and running. However, last summer I was training for my first half ironman and I was very confident on my bike.

How have you noticed the results? Tell me a little about your overall experience, the competitions, new people you met… etc.

Before every competition we usually set a goal for that specific event. In some competitions the goal is based upon a position, in other races we state a time goal and in some others the only target is being able to finish. Throughout these years, I have been able to pursue more, achieve quicker times in all three of the sports, and meet incredible athletes worldwide. Probably the most exciting competition I have ever participated in was the Ironman 70.3 in Lanzarote last September, where I became the youngest female Spaniard to have ever completed the distance. I also met my current coach, who since then, has become essential in my life, not only as a coach, but also as a friend and a truly amazing person.