Alistair Brownlee on 'Pushing to Blackout' and What Made Me Retire From Triathlon (Video)
In this 16 February 2025 video, host Prof. Damian Hughes talks with Alistair Brownlee, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most respected triathletes in the world. Known for his relentless work ethic and exceptional performances, Alistair’s journey in sport is rooted in his upbringing in Yorkshire, where hard work and determination were key values that pushed him to the top of elite competition. In this episode, Damian speaks with Alistair about his decision to step away from elite sport and what led to that moment. He reflects on his early years, the influence of his environment, and the relentless training that shaped his career.
Alistair also shares insights into the mental and physical challenges athletes face, including a painful moment during the 2010 World Triathlon Series. He dives into the overlap between physical endurance and mental resilience, offering advice to those facing tough decisions about their future.
This episode explores hard work, belief, and the crossroads of life, offering valuable lessons from one of the best athletes.
https://youtu.be/So66AyEUBYk
📕 Chapters
00:00 Alistair Brownlee on High Performance
00:39 Fears of Retirement
01:53 Deciding to Step Away from Elite Sport
04:46 The Importance of Diverse Interests
06:04 Growing Up in Yorkshire
08:34 Early Training and Hard Work
14:48 Choosing Between Medicine and Triathlon
21:53 Pushing Beyond Limits: The 2010 World Triathlon Series
27:52 Managing Pressure in Sport
30:08 Balancing Family and Finance
30:52 Handling Pressure at the London Olympics
33:43 Building Belief in Yourself
37:30 Sibling Rivalry and Training with Johnny
40:10 Pushing Jonny Over the Finish Line
45:35 Reflecting on a Triumphant Career
51:48 Transitioning to Life Beyond Triathlon
53:39 Quickfire Questions
