Sam Long

Nationality: USA
Hometown: Boulder, CO
Born: 1995
Discipline: Ironman Triathlete

Website: https://samlongtri.weebly.com/

Social Media:

Career Highlights

1st Overall: Tri the Boat Half Ironman
1st Overall: Harvest Moon Half Ironman
1st AG18-24: Ironman Boulder
1st AG18-24: Boulder Peak Olympic Tri
1st Amateur: Coeur d'Alene Ironman
1st Overall: Mt. Rainier Duathlon
2nd Overall: Husky Indoor Triathlon
3rd Overall: Crescent Moon Olympic Tri
6th AG18-24: Ironman World Championships

• What are your favorite hobbies?

I suppose that would be swimming, biking, and running! I also enjoy alpine skiing, climbing, surfing, hiking and of course, eating!

• How did you get your start in triathlon?

I got my start in triathlon by just wanting to accomplish one for the sake of doing it. it was an Olympic distance race -- I loved it and was hooked!

• What is your favorite discipline of the three?

Personally I tend to measure my races by the mental states I can achieve in the race. Thus I have two favorite parts in an Ironman. One of them is on the bike where I tend to get totally immersed in the present moment and find this place of absolute strength. The second is on the run, where I inevitably become quite tired and my body wants to quit. The moment that my mind manages to convince my body to go onward is a time of complete bliss.

• What is your favorite race of the year?

My favorite race of the year would have to have been Kona, even though it was certainly not my best race. Just being on the big island with all the competition and hype was so much fun.

• What has been the best moment of your career so far?

The best moment of my career was when I finished my first Ironman. I was 18 years old and had only committed myself to Ironman for about 5 months. When I crossed the finish line, I knew I could accomplish my dreams of becoming a pro triathlete.

• What will be your first race in 2016, and what are your big goal races?

My first race will be Ironman 70.3 Puerto Rico.

• Why does your equipment selection play an important role in training and racing? How does a stiffer a smoother riding wheel set help in triathlon?

Equipment selection is a huge part of being a fast and successful competitor. I'm currently in the process of finding what gear works best for me and will allow the biggest performance gains. For example, with running shoes, I am trying to find the balance between having enough cushioning on the run but also minimizing weight. So far I have been too far on the lightweight side and have suffered some problems because of it. Also, as I know most age groupers will agree, with a limited budget I have to find what gear will get me the best results while not breaking the bank. Alto has created new wheels that are stiffer, smoother, and faster, but still at an affordable price. For me, it's a no brainer.

• What is your ultimate career goal?