Sports
Andreas Dreitz: Ironman Brazil Debut and Possible Farewell to Sport?
The German triathlete shares his expectations for the Florianópolis race and a potential retirement from the sport.
Andreas Dreitz, the renowned German professional triathlete, is set to debut at Ironman Brazil in Florianópolis. He discusses the influence of Brazilian culture, his race preparation, and the possibility that this could be his final Ironman competition.
The Nubank Ultravioleta Ironman Brazil in Florianópolis is hosting a distinguished visitor: German professional triathlete Andreas Dreitz. In an exclusive interview with Fabio Bessa and Thiago Kawamura, Dreitz shares his expectations for the race, his connection to Brazil, and the possibility that this might be his last Ironman appearance.
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The Fascinating Brazilian Connection
This marks Andreas Dreitz's first time in Brazil and South America. He explains that throughout his life, he has met many Brazilians—both athletes and individuals in other contexts, such as during his exchange program in the United States. The Brazilian lifestyle and personality have deeply inspired him. Dreitz praises the Brazilian triathlon community, describing it as “crazy and booming” and “unique in the world.” He appreciates the “relaxed” and “easygoing” nature of Brazilians, particularly their mental approach, without excessive worry about everything.
Preparation, Race, and Farewell
Dreitz's preparation for Ironman Brazil was “okay,” and he feels confident with the progress made in recent weeks. He emphasizes the challenge of avoiding mistakes and maintaining balance without overdoing training, especially as he ages and his body demands more recovery. Andreas expects to face competition from Brazilian athletes, many of whom he doesn't know but who could be a surprise and a significant factor in the race, given they are on home turf and seeking recognition.
Regarding Florianópolis's climate, he notes that upon his arrival, it was cooler than in Germany, which was experiencing a heatwave. However, he considers that humidity could be a distinguishing factor compared to Europe. Dreitz doesn't rule out hitting “the wall” if the weather surprises him.
When asked about course record-breaking (7h31min total and sub-4h in cycling), Dreitz believes that “every record is there to be broken.” He acknowledges that road conditions, wind, and turns on the course can make it difficult, but he believes that one day the 4-hour cycling record will be achieved.
In a touching moment, Andreas reveals that he is in his final year of Ironman racing, and that this race in Brazil might be his last. He chose the country to seize the opportunity and because it's a place he has always wanted to visit.
A Triathlete's Journey and Philosophy
Andreas Dreitz recalls his first triathlon in 2008, a local race 30 minutes from his hometown, which he cycled to with clip-ons on his road bike. He jokes that in his early years, a major goal was to arrive early to fully enjoy the post-race food.
In terms of nutrition, he estimates consuming approximately 100g of carbohydrates per hour during an Ironman.
When asked about his dream in triathlon, Andreas Dreitz doesn't speak of specific titles but rather emotions. His greatest dream is to cross the finish line completely exhausted and happy with himself, having left everything he had on the course. He wishes to have found the right answers to the obstacles, finishing with a smile, and in the ideal scenario, in first place, with no one ahead of him.
The presence of Andreas Dreitz at Ironman Brazil is not just that of an elite athlete, but of someone seeking a cultural connection and a significant closure to a remarkable phase of his sporting life. His journey in Florianópolis promises to be a memorable chapter, whatever the final outcome.
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