*** Interview with Vice European Champion Jan Petralia ***
Hello Jan!
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
Hi, I am Jan Petralia, an 28-year-old Belgium duathlete. Since I am not a full-time professional athlete, I do work as a sport teacher and coach, too.
Regarding my athletic career, my biggest successes as duathlete are my victory of the Duathlon Alpe d´Huez and the title of Vice European Champion of 10-60-10k duathlon 2019 in Alsdorf. I also placed 8th at the Duathlon World Championships of 10-45-5k and won two national title in Belgium in the 10-60-10k duathlon. Before I joined the duathlon community,
How did you become a duathlete?
Prior to duathlon, I was a steeplechase runner and mid-distance athlete. However, once I got injured, I started to crosstrain on my dad’s old bike and joined my cycling friends for a few rides. They were unable to keep up with me, so – apperently – they told me that I was quite a decent cyclist ?. After I had recovered from my injury, I attended a duathlon race and realized that I really enjoyed the run – bike – run style. So I sticked with it!
From your personal perspective, what is special about the run-bike-run format of Powerman World Series?
The distance mixx of 10k running – 60k cycling -10k running fits me perfectly and favors my endurance strength. Also, the people involved in these races, athletes, spectators and organizers, are great and really make the race fun!
How often did you compete at Powerman Alsdorf and what is you personal highlight of this particular race? (course, spectators, atmosphere, competitors…)
I participates once so far. My personal highlight was my 2nd place at the European Championships there in 2019. My negative highlight in the same event: I got beaten by a „hollander“ ? ? ? – just kidding!
No, honestly: It is a really great race with perfect organization. As an athlete, I feel very welcome there and the race course is fast and challenging which I like a lot!
Have you participated in any other Powerman World Series races? If so, what is your „don’t-miss-race“?
As for now, I only raced the Powerman Alsdor, Viborg and Portugal. And I truly can say that I loved all oft hem in terms of racing and overall experience!
How does a typical training week looks like in your preparation for a Powerman race (apr. 2 month proir to the race)?
I train a lot – probably too much in order to be a good atlete. And I like it ?. Here is an exemplary week schedule:
Monday: easy run + bike to work ( 2*1h)
Tuesday: track workout + swim if there is no corona
Wednsday: long ride, core, easy run
Thursday: long run
Friday: core, swim ,bike intervals
Saterday: run intervals, easy bike
Sunday can change
Despite the current uncertainties of racing in 2021, do you have a competiton schedule in mind?
We will see…
I hope there will be some Powermans I can participate in and I woul love to race the Championships. Moreover, I am planning with some grand prix and triathlons, but I have not determined these events yet.
Last but not least: What are your best advices for athletes who want to participate in a Powerman race?
Keep on smiling, dont draft. And let me win, thank you already ?.
And for preparation and training: Have fun, enjoy your ability to work out and don’t overdo yourself!
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 Jan event better by visiting his athlete profile.
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