It’s been nearly a year since Kona’s Staci Studer cruised through the finish line banner at the 2015 Ultraman World Championships to win one of the most prestigious titles in the sport of triathlon — World Champion.
It’s been nearly a year since Kona’s Staci Studer cruised through the finish line banner at the 2015 Ultraman World Championships to win one of the most prestigious titles in the sport of triathlon — World Champion.
Not only did the Kailua-Kona resident win the 31st edition in convincing fashion — nearly 2 ½ hours ahead of the second place female finisher — she also made history by becoming the first woman from the Big Island to claim the coveted crown.
The last known world champion who hailed from the Big Island was legendary triathlete and cyclist, Gary Shields, a winner of three consecutive Ultraman World Championship titles from 1988-90.
Studer’s win successfully ended a 25-year drought for Big Island athletes, and what’s even more remarkable, she accomplished that feat as a rookie.
On Nov. 25th, the 43-year old physical therapist at Club Rehab plans to return to the 32nd Annual Ultraman World Championships that will begin with a 6.2-mile open water swim, followed by 171.4-mile bike, and finish off with a 52.4-mile run.
With just a week left to put some final touches on her race plan, Studer discussed her thoughts on defending her title, the specificity of her training sessions, and how she feels her life hasn’t changed much since becoming world champion.
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Q: So, are you ready?
Yes. I have the usual pre-race nervousness but I feel excited. But at the same time, I’m trying not to think about it. Like last year, I just want to have fun. It’s a fun weekend being with everyone.
Q: As the defending world champion, do you feel that there is less or more pressure heading into this year’s race?
I try not to think about it because then you feel pressure. I just want to do the best that I can do – the island and the day will bring what they’ll bring. I think last year not knowing what to expect was kind of better. And this year because I have more experience and know what it feels like, I just don’t know if that is better or worse.
Q: In terms of preparation for the 320-mile distance, what has training been like?
I have the same coach, Toni Hasler (coach and husband of retired professional triathlete Natascha Badmann), and it’s been a little different as he’s trying to make me faster and stronger. I’ve done Saddle Road hill repeats, some long swims, and long runs or long (bricks). It’s a definitely more specific this year.
Toni and Natasha were here right before IRONMAN so I got to go on some of their trainings. Learning to climb Hina Lani hill in your biggest gear at 20-rpms in aero (position) is a tough workout!
I had three hard weeks, and there are some weeks that I’m juggling work and training so it ends up being a 12-hour day. Training is a little like last year, just more specific to making me stronger and faster. And yes, I definitely feel stronger this year.
Q: There are not many athletes who can say that they are the world champion of their sport. How do you feel your life has changed since?
I don’t think that it’s changed but at the same time, everyone says that I’m too humble. People ask what I do and only after we start talking do they realize that I’ve won (Ultraman). Then they tell me that I’m so humble but to me, it feels strange to just come out say “I’ve won.” So I guess my life hasn’t changed much.
Q: In terms of sponsorships, how has that changed?
Bike works is sponsoring me this year and Blue Seventy gave me a discount on a new wetsuit. Everything else is kind of the same. I think, politely speaking, (bigger sponsors) want athletes who are pro or near that level. Or maybe I didn’t reach out enough. So no, I didn’t have major sponsors knocking at my door but I think because maybe Ultraman is a smaller race (with a field limited to 40 entrants). My sponsors this year are: Club Rehab, Bike Works, Keauhou Veterinary, Blue Seventy, Junko Furtado (massage) and Denice Murphy (acupuncture).
Q: Last year you were one of the rookies at Ultraman. What would be some sound advice you’d like to pass on to this year’s first timers?
Have fun, enjoy the island, stay positive, and stay in the moment – like you can’t be thinking about the run when you are swimming. So when you are swimming, just talk to the fish and enjoy the water, just enjoy every bit you can. It may sound a little superficial but we forget (the beauty of the island) when we are racing.
Q: What do you appreciate the most about competing in Ultraman?
Being part of the (Ultraman) family. They are my Thanksgiving holiday family. And I’m thankful. I’m thankful to everyone who has supported me and encouraged me along the way.