Luiza Paes Reviews Her Season and Career in Pro Triathlon
The triathlete reflects on her year, recalls memories in Florianópolis, and discusses transitioning from pro to age-group racing.
In an exclusive interview, Luiza Paes discusses her season on the triathlon circuit and her full Ironman debut. The athlete also looks back on memorable moments in Florianópolis and shares insights from competing in the professional category.
On the eve of the race in Florianópolis, triathlete Luiza Paes sat down with the Stemma Sports team to share a behind-the-scenes look at her season. In an open conversation, Luiza discussed the challenges of balancing intense training sessions with raising three children and working, recalled special memories along the Santa Catarina course, and reflected on the next chapter of her sporting career.
Season Review and Reflections on the Pro Cycle
Luiza highlighted the year as a crowning achievement in her athletic journey following motherhood. After competing in sprint and Olympic distances as well as seventeen Ironman 70.3 events, she took on her full-distance debut, crossing the finish line in an impressive 9:18. Despite the strong result, the demands of the training block took a toll on her family and professional routine. Now back to working full-time at age 40, the triathlete admitted that the Florianópolis race may mark her farewell to the professional division—viewing the decision not as a setback, but as the natural culmination of a cycle and a celebration of female leadership in sports.
Preparation and Memories on the Florianópolis Course
The road to the start line in Santa Catarina required adjustments. After experiencing leg pain at Ironman 70.3 Rio de Janeiro, Luiza had to dial back her training volume and only confirmed her pro entry a few weeks before race day, putting together a condensed cycling block. Retracing the Ironman Brasil course brought back powerful memories, particularly along Avenida dos Búzios, where her family gathered to support her during her long-distance debut.
Life as a Pro and Inspiring Other Women
Wrapping up two years in the elite division, Luiza emphasized the valuable lessons learned from the high standards of the professional field, which pushes athletes to unlock their full potential. The prospect of returning to age-group racing comes from a desire for greater everyday flexibility, allowing her to prioritize time with her children without the relentless pressure of high-performance sport. In her closing message, the triathlete encouraged other women to overcome the fear of competing at the elite level and noted that her passion for triathlon will remain vibrant through new chapters ahead.