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Lucas Cabral Sets Sights on Ironman 70.3 São Paulo
In his rookie pro year, the triathlete breaks down bike gains, aero tweaks, and race strategy.
Recently transitioning to the pro triathlon ranks, Lucas Cabral heads into Ironman 70.3 São Paulo ready to take risks with the lead pack. The athlete reflects on his packed race calendar, consistent swim splits, and targets for the São Paulo race.
Amid an intense debut season in the professional category, Lucas Cabral lines up at the Nubank Ultravioleta Ironman 70.3 São Paulo with soaring confidence. Following a demanding slate of races and travel throughout the year—including stops in Curitiba, Challenge Fortaleza, and Rio de Janeiro—the Ceará-born athlete welcomes his growing competitive rhythm and steady adaptation to the elite circuit.
PUBLICIDADE (GAM) — 1250x250
Surfing background and strength in the water
Boasting one of the strongest swim splits among recent newcomers to the pro field, Cabral credits his comfort in the water to his surfing background. Childhood exposure to ocean waves and currents gave him an innate feel for the water well before formal pool sessions began during his transition to triathlon. At 70.3 São Paulo, his goal is to capitalize on the straight, sheltered course to lock into the lead group right from the opening strokes.
High volume and marginal gains on the bike
To balance his performance against the front-runners, cycling has become the primary training focus under coach Cílio. His bike volume ranges between 12 and 16 hours per week—a priority set to build power while managing run fatigue, an area where Lucas already shows natural consistency, evidenced by his 1:19 half-marathon split at 70.3 Brasília.
Beyond putting in heavy road mileage, the athlete has also fine-tuned his bike setup. Recent adjustments include a more aerodynamic aero-bar position and updates to his between-the-arms front hydration system, targeting aerodynamic efficiency and saved watts to sustain the blistering pace of the pro peloton.
An aggressive strategy for São Paulo
Having moved past the mechanical trouble in Rio de Janeiro—where front-tire friction derailed his bike leg and hampered the subsequent run—his tactical plan for São Paulo is clear: take calculated risks. Lucas plans to exit the swim alongside the leaders and push the pace on the bike to stay in contention, adapting to the cooler temperatures of the capital to execute a complete race from start to finish.
PUBLICIDADE (GAM) — 1250x250
