Sarah Haskins (Credit: ITU/Delly Carr)
While the fine chaps in London are making preparations to host the 2012 Olympic Games, triathletes on this side of the pond are gearing up for an intense season of racing in hopes of earning the privilege to represent the U.S. So who among them stands the best chance of crossing the Atlantic and bringing home some gold? That’s easy…Sarah Haskins.
After first representing the U.S. in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and then notching wins in 2010 at the Miami, St. Anthony’s, Lifetime Fitness and Chicago triathlons, Sarah has undoubtedly become one of the top Americans to watch. And since the entire country remains conveniently buried in snow, we had a chance to sit down with her and chat about last season, what she has planned leading up the 2012 Games, and what she thinks about the future of the sport.
Looking back on 2010, what were some personal highlights and low points for you? What did you learn?
I had several high and low points throughout the season in 2010. I started off the year with a lot of international travel and racing on the World Championship Series circuit. I was pleased with three top 10 finishes in a row, but the travel took a lot out of me and left me fatigued and injured towards the second part of the racing season. I have learned to plan my race season better this year and cut back on the number of international trips.
Battling with injuries the second half of the season was a great challenge, not only physically, but mentally. It was tough to keep positive, but I learned to focus on how to get better and stronger in years to come in the sport. I also realized that injuries happen and even though you can’t get to the start line, it is so much more important to focus on a positive attitude, cheering others on and know that sport is only a part of what I do and part of who I am.
What are your goals for 2011 as you head into the 2012 Olympics?
My main focus this year is the first Olympic Trials race in London. My goal is to be ready to peak for that race and qualify for the Games. In order to qualify, I need to place in the top 9, but ideally I would like to finish in the top 3. In addition, I want to continue to stay healthy this year and place well at the World Championships in Beijing. Racing here at home, I have a goal of defending my 2009 Toyota Cup title and having a great day at the Hy-Vee Triathlon.
How is the sport of triathlon viewed in the Olympic community?
ITU (International Triathlon Union) racing is a very tactical and exciting style of racing to watch. Some view the draft-legal bike as not a “real” triathlon, but I have to say that my toughest bike segments during a race have been in ITU races (highest fatigue levels and power outputs). ITU style racing is very popular in Europe and Australia; however, in the U.S., most triathletes are not familiar with it. I feel this is because age-group racing in the U.S. is time trial style and there are not any high profile ITU races in the States. I truly enjoy both drafting and non-drafting racing. Both are different and both are tough…and that’s what racing is all about!
What are your thoughts on new 5150 events put on by WTC?
I think a new race series is always exciting and it is encouraging watching this sport grow. With that being said, each race has its own unique feel and I hope a “Series” won’t take that away. It is getting to be a challenge to pick out a race schedule with so many great series out there; including the Race to the Toyota Cup and the USA Triathlon Elite Series.
Do you have any concerns about the sport given its rapid growth?
I do feel that some of the race fields may be spread too thin, but having a “Championship” with all the different race series will ensure that the top athletes will be racing each other when it counts. Growth in any sport is a positive and most importantly others are learning that living a healthy and active lifestyle can greatly improve your quality of life.
Get used to seeing Sarah at the front of the pack. (Credit:triathlon.org)
Have you ever noticed changes in your personal motivations as your career evolved towards the elite end of the spectrum?
When I started in the sport, I really had no idea about racing, tactics, traveling, sponsors, etc. I have learned so much over the past six years not only about the professional side of training and racing, but also the business side of the sport. My number one reason to train and race is to become the best athlete I can be and accomplish my goals. Along the way, I have had a wonderful opportunity to work with great sponsors. I think it is important to represent my sponsors and be a professional on and off the race course. I will only become involved with a sponsor or a product unless I truly believe in their product, and I think it is very important in being genuine and honest. Of course racing is my career, so the motivation for prize money is there, but it is often secondary to my performance goals.
What has been your biggest surprise or personal revelation so far in your triathlon career?
I am surprised how much I continue to learn about myself year after year. What I have learned is that your ideas and mindsets are always changing and evolving. It is important to keep an open mind so that you can apply new ideas and not be stuck in a closed mindset.
And of course, what’s your favorite race?
Well, my favorite country to race in is New Zealand. I love the land, the people and the atmosphere. Not too many places in the world can enjoy snow top mountains, black sandy beaches, tropical forests and green pastures all in the same city. I raced a World Cup in New Plymouth, New Zealand back in 2005 and 2006.
Thanks Sarah for the great chat and best of luck in 2011. We’ll be rooting for you to bring home the gold in 2012!
-Adrian
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