226ers

Monday 9 December 2013

ROGER SERRANO –WHY YOU NEED TO RACE XTERRA? (with video)


Racing XTERRA has changed the entire experience of triathlon for Roger Serrano. When the 2012 Spanish Triathlon Cross Champion entered XTERRA Spain National Championships earlier this year, he had the time of his life.

Not only did he have the opportunity to compete against some of the top XTERRA athletes, he also made firm new friends such as Ben Allen and Jacqui Slack. And of course, there was the experience of XTERRA itself, an experience that Roger calls “out of this world.”




For Roger, XTERRA has quite literally opened up his world to so many new experiences. He hopes to soon join Ben Allen and Jacqui Slack to race XTERRA Australia and XTERRA Asian Pacific championships.


Here Roger tells us the reason why he thinks you need to race XTERRA and have the experience of your life: 

An XTERRA competition is not a common event. Not only is it an event of international stature, but it is also totally different in nature from the standard asphalt triathlon. Truthfully, I am very excited that we now have XTERRA here in Spain.

To my mind, the spirit of XTERRA is completely different to that of the standard triathlons. Firstly, the competition is held in natural settings, often with spectacular views of the countryside. The toughness of the circuit is a test against nature; it makes you respect the mountains and landscapes where the competition is held. No asphalt, just nature. This shows in the attitude of the participants. The spirit of XTERRA is not just about winning, it's about seeing, breathing, and enjoying the experience with everyone else.



The organization is excellent. XTERRA competitions must meet the minimum requirements dictated by the international brand. This means that when you compete in XTERRA you have some guarantees. You know that you can go out there and enjoy the experience. You don’t have to be concerned about the organization, the circuits or the aid stations. XTERRA Cieza 2013 was a good example of the high level of organization that you can expect. XTERRA is synonymous with excellent organization, and safety guarantees. 

I know that many people believe that the inscription fee is rather high. However, the truth is that € 125 for an event of this prestige and quality cannot be compared with any other event of 30 or 40 €. In my opinion, an event such as XTERRA, which not only triples the prize money but also brings an amazing experience to all, deserves much more consideration.




Therefore, I encourage you to compete in XTERRA. I've always said and I always will say. It is better to compete in an event where quality rules and you are left with happy and fond memories than to compete every weekend in poor quality triathlons for less. See you soon!

Follow Roger: rogerserrano.es






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Wednesday 27 November 2013

INTERVIEW: ALBERT SOLEY - MAUI NEW AGE GROUP CHAMPION


When Albert Soley entered XTERRA Spain National Championships earlier this year, he was seeking a new experience and some adventure. The race in Cieza was the first big turnaround for this talented young athlete from Barcelona. He could not foresee the exciting new direction his triathlon career would take when he set off to compete in the World Championships in Maui a few weeks ago. We asked him to tell us more about his XTERRA adventure.



Your first XTERRA was in Cieza in June this year. What made ​​you decide to get into this new experience of triathlon? 
I did some research on XTERRA and I realized it is a demanding and tough race. I wanted to give it a try and see if I could pass the test. 

You finished the race as the winner of your age group (25-29). How has this result changed you triathlon career?
 I have had the fantastic opportunity to go to Hawaii to compete. And of course, it was through XTERRA that I was also able to find some sponsors, which is great!   


Did you have to adjust your training for Maui?
Only a little bit. It was mainly my swimming that needed to be improved. I realized I had to improve if I wanted to win the race.

What was your biggest challenge racing Maui?
I went with the intention to do my best and try to win in my age group. But I realized I was up against some of the best athletes in the world.


Your worst moment in Maui?

 None! It was all quite impressive. The atmosphere was incredible; it constantly encouraged me! The spectacular organization ... the whole experience was great.

Of course, the biggest and best moment was breaking the finish line as the winner! Did you think you could win the race?
I felt really good. I knew I could still improve in some aspects but all in all I was very happy because I had a good race and was passing other athletes. It did give me the psychological edge, but at no stage did I think I was going to win. I only learned the results at the finish.




Is there anything you would change in your preparations for next season?
I’ll try to train harder and be better prepared for XTERRA triathlons. My main focus would be to try to arrive at the venue – be it Cieza or Maui - well ahead of time to adapt better.


Tell us about your plans for XTERRA 2014 – will you be back in Maui to defend your title?
This season I have thought about racing different XTERRA circuits. I hope to race in Spain and some other XTERRA races in Europe and elsewhere. Of course, if possible, I would love to return to Maui!





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