Sports
Mikelle Coelho: The Journey to Professionalism at IRONMAN Brazil 2026
The triathlete shares her transition to professional, her preparation, and the mental strength needed to face IRONMAN challenges.
Mikelle Coelho, affectionately known as Mica, is ready for the Nubank Ultravioleta IRONMAN Brazil 2026, now as a professional. In an interview with Fabio Bessa and Thiago Kawamura for Stemma Sports, she details her preparation, the differences of the professional circuit, and the importance of a strong 'why' to overcome the obstacles of the race and life.
In a relaxed chat with hosts Fabio Bessa and Thiago Kawamura, live from Florianópolis, triathlete Mikelle Coelho (Mica) opened up about her journey to the Nubank Ultravioleta IRONMAN Brazil 2026. With the experience of four completed Ironmans under her belt, Mica now faces the professional circuit, revealing the challenges and motivation behind this new phase.
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The Transition to Professionalism
For Mica, who had already competed in two Ironmans in Floripa and two in Kona, the move to professionalism feels like a debut. "It's all new," she states, emphasizing that the race dynamic is "totally different" and that many athletes, like her, are migrating from amateur to professional. Despite the inherent "little pressure" of the new category, Mica enjoys the challenge and discomfort, characteristics that, she says, drive her to always seek more. Her preparation was intense, with a high volume of training, including a 70.3 in Brasília and a training camp in Majorca and Portugal.
Challenges and Triumphs at IRONMAN
She recalls the IRONMAN Floripa of 2022, considered one of the toughest due to intense rain and cold. In that race, Mica faced not only adverse weather conditions but also two flat tires on the bike. Even with the loss of time and positions, she did not give up, running "the race of her life" to qualify for Kona. This experience taught her that victory goes beyond time or placement. "We learn so much more when something out of our control happens, and we manage to overcome it, to win," she reflects. This emotional baggage is what motivates her and gives her strength for new starts.
The True Purpose of a Triathlete
Asked for advice for those starting in the sport, Mica emphasizes the importance of finding a personal reason to compete. "Don't do it because someone else does it... do it for yourself, find your reason for being there," she advises. She explains that from start to finish, many thoughts and voices arise in the mind, and having a strong "why" is crucial to staying focused and overcoming difficult moments. "It's already a sport that isn't easy. So, if you have a strong 'why,' a strong reason in your life... it will make your journey a lot easier," she adds.
Mikelle Coelho's Goals and Dreams
In a quick "Q&A," Mica shared some interesting facts:
- Nutrition during the race: Consumes 100g of carbohydrates per hour on the bike and 80g per hour on the run.
- First triathlon race: A Brazilian Kids Championship in Maceió, at age 12, where she placed fourth.
- Biggest dream as a triathlete: To go to Kona as a professional.
- Song to cross the finish line: A song by the band Morada, which speaks of courage and facing challenges, asking God for strength not to give up.
Mikelle Coelho's passion for triathlon is evident, and her journey inspires not only through her performance but also through her resilience and constant pursuit of self-improvement. May Mica's energy and determination inspire everyone seeking their own challenges, both on and off the tracks.
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