Zeca Fernando: ZTrack, Comrades, and the Evolution of Endurance Sports

The Running Market and ZTrack's Vision

Zeca Fernando details the transformation of the street running scene in Brazil. From a time when there were very few races, such as the São Paulo Marathon (whose initial route, under Maluf's administration, was notably political, aiming to showcase public works), to the current boom. He recalls the emergence of consultancies like MPR, Run Fun, and Race, and Corpore's shift to event organizing. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, marked a turning point, leading to the proliferation of numerous consultancies, many of them smaller and with a reduced number of athletes.

Currently, ZTrack primarily serves the 30+ demographic, who seek a more "serious" and in-depth approach, in contrast to the 20+ demographic often attracted by influencers and social media. ZTrack's methodology focuses on a "gold standard training," which prepares athletes to complete a half marathon at any time, allowing for a four-month cycle for those aiming for a full marathon. Zeca, who is involved in marathon and ultramarathon coaching, emphasizes humanized care: "the person knowing they can call me whenever they want." He runs Comrades annually with his students, exemplifying the commitment he seeks from his team. The consultancy also values inclusion, promoting the "colors training run" during LGBTQIA+ week, demonstrating an open stance to all.

The Psychology of Performance: Beyond the Physical

As a sports psychologist, Zeca Fernando explores the mental dimension of high performance. He draws on philosopher Byung-Chul Han to criticize the "society of constant productivity," where self-imposed pressure for results can be detrimental. Zeca cites examples of athletes who, driven by "bar bets," sign up for marathons with only two months of preparation. This trivialization of long distances leads to "stress fractures" and negative experiences. "Where is the health in that?" Zeca questions, lamenting how sport, which should be a source of relaxation, is "swallowed up" by the pressure for performance.

Sports psychology at ZTrack is a vital complement to physical training, focusing on resilience, decision-making, and the athlete's internal dialogue during the race. Zeca uses techniques such as breathing, meditation, and visualization to prepare the mind for challenges. He exemplifies this with the story of Avelino, a 64-year-old athlete with dysautonomia who, despite physical challenges, persevered in Comrades thanks to support and mental strategies, managing to complete the race.

Comrades Marathon: The Ultramarathon That Captivates

Zeca Fernando's relationship with the Comrades Marathon, the challenging 90 km in South Africa, is a pioneering story. In 1999, he led the first Brazilian team to participate in the race, in partnership with Milton (from Pão de Açúcar) and Branca. Without specific Comrades training references at the time, they adapted long runs, covering up to 70 km on Rodovia dos Bandeirantes, from São Paulo to Hopi Hari, an epic training session for the era. His first Comrades was challenging, completed in 9 hours and 20 minutes, with his diaphragm "totally wrecked."

For newcomers, Zeca and his team aim to minimize the race's "reality shock." Preparation includes long runs of up to 70 km so that athletes build the necessary volume. Strategy is crucial: "you don't have to do what he does," referring to local runners who sometimes run inefficiently. The importance of walking steep climbs to conserve energy is one of the key pieces of advice. Team spirit is fundamental, as when the entire group waited for Avelino to cross the finish line together.

The motivations for returning to Comrades are many: the "back-to-back" medal (for those who complete the race in opposite directions in consecutive years) and the "green number" (for those who complete 10 editions). However, Zeca emphasizes that the experience and atmosphere of the race, coupled with team camaraderie, are the main drivers for continuing this challenge.

Partnerships That Boost Athletes

The episode highlights important partners in the sports world. Ticket Sports, Latin America's largest sports ticketing company, simplifies registrations for a wide range of events. Z2 Performance, a sports supplement brand, offers essential products like gels and salts for high performance. And Oakley, an official Stemma partner, reinforces the importance of sunglasses in outdoor activities, not just for style, but for protection against UV rays, dust, and insects, as Zeca emphasizes, considering them "very important."

Conclusion

The conversation with Zeca Fernando on the Stemma Podcast reveals that endurance sports are a multifaceted journey, requiring not only physical preparation but also a strong mind and a robust support system. ZTrack, under Zeca's leadership, embodies the pursuit of holistic and humanized support, where psychology and individualized care are as crucial as physical training in helping each athlete achieve their best version and conquer challenges like the legendary Comrades Marathon.