ABU DHABI // Flora Duffy holds multiple world titles in women’s triathlon. She is the champion of the ITU World Triathlon Series, XTERRA World Championships and Cross Triathlon World Championships. She has also represented Bermuda in the past three Olympic Games at Beijing, London and Rio de Janeiro.
She is the defending champion of the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi, the curtain-raising event of the world race series, which will be held at Yas Island on Friday and Saturday.
Duffy, 29, heads the women’s field and says Abu Dhabi holds a “special place” as it was at the capital’s Corniche where she achieved her first World Triathlon Series podium finish back in 2015.
From this year, the ITU World Triathlon Series Abu Dhabi will become a two-day event for the first time. Joining 120 of the world’s elite athletes will be more than 3,500 triathletes at Yas.
Duffy spoke to The National's Amith Passela ahead of the weekend competition.
How did it all begin for you as a triathlete?
I did my first triathlon when I was seven years old in Bermuda. I was in a swim club, loved to run and knew how to ride a bike. So triathlon just made sense. I really enjoyed the race so joined the local triathlon club. I made a lot of friends in the club so it was a fun thing to do growing up in Bermuda. The same kids’ triathlon club still exists to this day. I go and visit it when I am at home.
Were you introduced to the sport by someone?
Well, I guess initially I was introduced to the sport by my parents as they would have been the ones entering me into the race. But once I joined the local triathlon club, the head coach Neil de ste Croix really introduced me to the sport. I learnt a lot of what I know now from Neil. Little did I know back then how important it would be. I can remember learning how to do quick transitions and learning bike skills early on. So I owe Neil a lot.
Who was your biggest influence in the sport?
I have had many different influences over my career. In the early days, Neil was a big influence and like I mentioned taught me a lot. In 2012, Neil was the Bermuda triathlon team coach at the London Olympics. It was cool to go full circle — from little aspiring triathlete to Olympian. At the moment, my biggest influence is my current coach ... another Neal — Neal Henderson, and my boyfriend Dan. Dan used to race triathlon so understands the lifestyle and all the sacrifices it takes to compete at the top level of the sport. It helps to have someone like that in your corner. And Neal, well he is the brains of the operation. He is probably one of the smartest people I have met, and knows a thing or two about riding a bike, hence my bike skills and power.
Do you have a role model?
I actually don’t have a role model. I have looked up to various female sports stars throughout my life, but not one in particular. It tends to change. At the moment Serena Williams [the No 1 women’s tennis player] is someone I admire. I think she uses her platform as a female athlete very well.
Did you play any other sport before becoming a full-time triathlete?
During primary and high school I took part in a variety of sports such as soccer, volleyball and softball. I was not very good at any of them so always gravitated back to swimming, cycling and running.
What is your strongest area in triathlon?
Cycling. I grew up doing quite a lot of bike racing, and during college did some high-level bike racing. Being exposed to high-level bike racing has given me an edge over my competitors.
When did you think that you had the potential to become a world champion?
Basically when I was about 20 metres from the finish line in Cozumel [at the ITU World Triathlon Championships in 2016]. No, it was actually earlier in the year — in July. I had just won my first World Triathlon Series event. I never expected to win a race, so when I did, I thought, well maybe I can win the series and become world champion. I knew it would be a close battle, and I would have to execute every race left in the series to the best of my ability if I wanted to win. I had a bit of luck, and on the day [when] it mattered most, I had the race of my life.
How much time do you spend training and planning?
My life revolves around triathlon. My training and recovery come first so if that means missing out on social events, then I do. I train about 25 hours a week and have two massages a week. Sports massage helps [with the] recovery and prevents injury. If I am not training then I like to take a nap, read, watch Netflix or catch up on some admin — like do interviews.
Do you take a break between competitions? If so what would you be doing during that time?
During the season (from March to November) I take a few mini breaks at planned times. This can be something like two to three days off after certain races. Then once the season is over in November, I will take four weeks off. Then during the season breaks, I like to stay at home and relax. Sleeping in and staying at home watching a movie on a Saturday is such a novelty for me. I am generally training all day so doing little things like that go a long way. During my off-season, I like to travel and visit friends who I have not seen all year. I try to make up for my anti-social behaviour.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to bake, but rarely have the energy to do so. I really like the alternative style of baking, so gluten and refined sugar free. It is fun creating healthy treats.
How has Abu Dhabi treated you? How would you compare Abu Dhabi as a venue?
I have been to Abu Dhabi twice now and on both occasions it has been great. Firstly, I have had really good races there which always helps the experience. But secondly, I really enjoy seeing the beautiful buildings and experience the culture. I have not been to Yas Island yet as it is a brand-new location, but the previous location was beautiful. The contrast between the tall, shiny sky scrapers and the bright blue water was amazing.
What do you consider your biggest achievement so far in triathlon?
Becoming ITU World Champion last year. I have dreamed of winning that world title ever since I was a little girl. It was a very special moment when that dream become a reality.
What are your ambitions and future in the sport?
I would love to go to another Olympics, which would be my fourth. After that I would like to try some long-course racing. Ironman doesn’t interest me yet, but 70.3 does.
How supportive your family been and do they come to watch you compete?
My parents and brothers are very supportive of my racing. My parents try to come to every race they can. They were all in Rio supporting me at the Olympics wearing ‘Go Flora Go’ shirts with classic Bermuda shorts. Very cool. My mum was also in Cozumel. I got to give her a high five as I ran down the finishing straight.
Why do you tri?
Well, firstly it is love for the sport, and I have been doing it for so long it is all I know. I feel like the sport is ingrained in me. Doing triathlon has taken me all over the world, I have met a lot of very cool people and I get to split my time between Boulder, Colorado, and Stellenbosch in South Africa. What is not to love? I also met my boyfriend through the sport so that is a pretty good reason to do triathlon. I would encourage everyone to try the sport. It is fun and challenging, and most importantly, I think it is important to do something that scares you every once and a while.
apassela@thenational.ae
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