Sports
André Lopes Recalls Swim Scare at USP Olympic Lane
On Café com Tri, the triathlete recounts water panic, a dark start, and open-water preferences.
André Lopes shared the tense moments he experienced during the swim leg at the USP Olympic Lane. The pro triathlete detailed a chaotic start in the dark, an onset of panic, and explained why he performs better in the ocean without a wetsuit.
During an appearance on the Café com Tri podcast, André Lopes reflected on the unforeseen challenges faced in professional triathlon swimming, proving that even sheltered waters can bring intense moments. The athlete noted that even on courses like the USP Olympic Lane, where the absence of waves promises a calm stretch, variables such as poor visibility and initial physical contact can completely change the scenario.
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Panic and Chaos at the USP Olympic Lane
Speaking about the race held in São Paulo, André described what turned out to be his worst swim of the year, despite initial expectations of an easy leg. The race started in the dark, severely hindering visibility and navigation. In the opening meters, the triathlete was pushed underwater by other competitors, swallowed water, and experienced a panic attack—a sensation he had not felt in about eight years—coming close to dropping out right then and there.
Ocean Dynamics and the Role of Wetsuits
Beyond detailing the episode in São Paulo, André analyzed the technical preferences that favor his swimming style. Coming from a surfing background, he highlighted his natural ability to navigate and orient himself in open water, contrasting with competitors whose strong performances are confined to the pool. For him, the best races happen in saltwater without a wetsuit. The athlete noted that neoprene suits end up leveling the field by improving buoyancy for swimmers with technical flaws, reducing the advantage of those who already maintain a strong natural body position in the water.
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