Hello Alice,

In preview to Powerman Alsdorf in August 2021, we would like to introduce our athletes and get to know them:

Please, introduce yourself and highlight some important moments/successes as athlete?

I am Alice Hector, 38, Pro Ironman 70.3 champion, 3* ETU elite championship bronze medallist (2 triathlon, 1 Powerman), multi-ultramarathon winner up to 100 miles.

How did you become a duathlete?
For many years I did pro triathlon, but running gradually became my strongest, so I wanted to give Powerman, where the run is weighted almost equally to the bike, a try!

From your personal perspective, what is special about the run-bike-run format of Powerman World Series?
I love the camaraderie - there is a more laid-back approach to racing compared to triathlon; maybe because there is one less discipline to do, people have less to worry about! The organisers in Alsdorf and Viborg went above and beyond making us welcome. The races were flawlessly organised too, but extremely tough!!

How often did you compete at Powerman Alsdorf and what is you personal highlight of this particular race?
I have only raced once so far and it was extremely cold! But that can’t be helped. It’s a fast course potentially and the highlight for me was running the fastest last run split (it’s important for my ultra running that I’m strong: I am now much more focussed on ultra) but more than that I love the pre-race meal with the team and other elites! I met some lovely characters.

Have you participated in any other Powerman World Series races? If so, what is your „don’t-miss-race“?
Viborg, now to be the world champs, has a killer of a run course that will ensure a very honest world champ is crowned.

How does a typical training week looks like in your preparation for a Powerman race (apr. 2 month proir to the race)?
So for me now with ultramarathons in mind, I run longer and slower most of the time, but I’d like to come back to Alsdorf and do well, especially as I’m still cycling well. So it would just be a case of two months’ out, adding some run speedwork and specific brick sessions that get you used to running off the bike. For Viborg, hill reps are a must!!

Despite the current uncertainties of racing in 2021, do you have a competiton schedule in mind?
January - Flitch Way 12 hour run - as many laps as possible in 12 hours!
May: UK South Downs Way 100km
June: Suffolk Backyard Ultra
October: Centurion Running Autumn 100 miles.
There is also a space there in August for a special race in Germany! :)

Last but not least: What are your best advices for athletes who want to participate in a Powerman race?
Try not to go too fast on that first 10k (not unless you are VERY VERY fit!)

For Alsdorf, the bike course is flat and fast so get used to being able to hold your best aerodynamic position over 60km. This takes practice in training.

If you’re looking for something slightly out the box compared to triathlon or running events, you may find your holy grail here! Powerman has a different vibe and the format will really suit resilient athletes, who like to have fun before and after!

Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights with us! We wish you the best for your individual and athletic goals.

We are excited to see you racing in Alsdorf on August 15th, 2021.

Get to know Alice Hector by visiting her athlete's profile

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