Pro Triathlete Lottie Lucas Joins Team Purpose in 2024

In the world of triathlon, it takes more than just physical endurance to succeed; it takes passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Which is why, Purpose is proud and excited to announce that we are the chosen sponsor for professional triathlete, Lottie Lucas in 2024.

In this interview you’ll find out more about Lottie’s rise to the ranks of a professional triathlete. Lottie, was born and raised in the UK, but relocated to Dubai over 8 years ago to take up a teaching job in an International School. Since then, Dubai has become her home away from home and she is very content , living there with her fiancé and dogs. 

With approximately 20 x 70.3 Ironman finishers, one full Ironman, and numerous Sprint and Olympic distance races under her belt, this athlete's story is a testament to the power of determination and the love for the sport.

Getting Started with Triathlon

Lottie's triathlete's journey began in an unexpected way. After years of competitive swimming during school, she took a break to focus on university studies. However, when she relocated to Dubai, the call of triathlon beckoned. It was a colleague who initially introduced her to this new world, asking her to participate in the swim leg of a triathlon relay. 

Little did she know that this experience would ignite a passion that would change the course of her life. Soon after this relay, she signed up for her first Sprint triathlon and, just a few months later, took on the challenge of a 70.3 Ironman. Her journey escalated rapidly, and after four years of racing in the Age Group category, she achieved professional status.

“It's the satisfaction and the exhilaration of piecing together all the components, from swimming and cycling to running, to execute a solid performance and bring out the best in myself,” said Lottie.

It's her love for the sport that transcends the physical exertion and embodies the mental and emotional fortitude that is required to excel.

When asked about her favorite disciplines she acknowledged that her preferences can vary throughout the year. There are moments when certain disciplines become a struggle, especially if a race knocks your confidence or when it feels like the hard work in training isn't reflected in your performance. Yet, the key she says is to keep pushing forward, knowing that persistence will eventually lead to success.

Best Triathlon Memories

Race days are inevitably filled with highs and lows but Lottie relishes the opportunity to share the course with familiar faces, including athletes she coaches. It's a chance to cheer each other on and celebrate together post-race. However, not all race memories are filled with jubilation. The worst ones are when external factors came into play, such as mechanical issues that were mostly out of her control.

However, among the numerous races she's participated in, one holds a special place in her heart - the 70.3 Ironman Langkawi that took place this year. It was at this race that she not only delivered one of her best performances to date but also had the opportunity to meet Team Purpose in person. This event symbolized the convergence of hard work, dedication, and the profound sense of camaraderie that makes triathlon a unique and rewarding sport.

Race Day Rituals and Balancing Work, Triathlon and Family

Every athlete has their pre-race rituals, and for Lottie, it involves a very specific diet. Her must-do eating rituals include a final dinner of chicken and rice and a breakfast of rice and jam. So committed is she to this regimen that she travels with a rice cooker to ensure she can maintain this essential fuel source.

Lottie acknowledges that finding balance in the life of a triathlete can be challenging. What helps her is to make a conscious effort to plan her "down time" and easier training days to coincide with family and friends' time, ensuring she can give her best in all aspects of her life.

Staying Motivated and Advice to Newbie Triathletes 

When we talked about staying motivated through grueling training sessions, Lottie mentioned that setting short-term goals in the lead-up to major races works for her. These goals serve as a constant source of motivation, keeping heron track. Equally important is the need for downtime after major races to avoid mental exhaustion and to approach the next training phase with renewed enthusiasm.

For newbie triathletes, Lottie  offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: "It is hard to beat that finish line feeling!" This sense of accomplishment and the euphoria of crossing the finish line make all the effort and training worthwhile.”

Fun Facts 

Beyond Triathlon: In the scorching heart of Dubai, Lottie Lucas conquers the desert heat with 2 to 3 daily training sessions, including a mandatory dog walk. Her secret? A month-long European escape when Dubai hits a blistering 50 degrees Celsius.

But Lottie isn't just burning up the trails solo. Alongside Filipe, she coaches for Fawz Concept, a powerhouse in Middle East triathlons. In-person sessions in Dubai forge a community thriving on dedication and passion for the sport. Lottie's coaching journey is as scorching as her triathlon pursuits, witnessing her athletes hit sporting milestones. 

Future Race Calendar: Looking ahead to 2024, Lottie’s full race calendar is yet to be confirmed but she has exciting plans that include racing in Asia in April and finishing the year with the 70.3 World Championships in Taupo. 

Follow Lottie's journey at Team Purpose