Cesar Martinez Ironman Triathlete
Cesar is a Spanish Ironman triathlete who has completed many races. He talks to Sundried about racing highs and lows.
Have you always been into sport?
I've always been into sport, playing handball and football as a child. When I stopped playing sports I joined a gym and started doing weight lifting, complementing it with running and swimming sessions.
What made you decide to enter triathlon?
In 2011 a friend of mine, who had just completed Ironman Bolton, was telling me everything about the experience of completing an Ironman. He spoke about the dedication required, the hard work and the satisfaction of crossing that finish line. That day I decided that I wanted to cross that finish line and hear at least once "Cesar, you are an Ironman".
What’s been your best race to date?
My best race so far has been Hero Cape Cod triathlon where I came 18th overall and 2nd in my age group. I qualified for Nationals but after being in an accident I wasn't able to compete.
And your proudest achievement?
Ironman Canada 2013, because it was my first Ironman and I was able to hear those words I had set out to hear.
Have you ever had any racing disasters / your toughest race yet?
Yes, of course, everyone has disasters. The important thing is to learn from them and be able to overcome them. In my case, it was Ironman Zurich 2014. I arrived at the race feeling stronger and leaner than ever, but it was not my race and I had a very bad day. Even so, I still managed to cross the finish line.
How do you overcome setbacks?
I always remember that I'm not racing alone; my family follows me to every race, so whenever I hit that point, I always think it would not be fair giving up on them after all the sacrifices they make to be the best support crew.
What is the best bit of advice you wish someone had told you before you started competing?
Actually, a 68-year-old lady gave it to me before Ironman Canada. She told me, "today is your day to have fun so forget about everything and enjoy the day because you deserve it".
What are your goals for 2017?
My goal is Ironman Florida in November; I raced it in 2015 but because of an ankle injury I couldn't race at my best.
Who do you take your inspiration from?
From my family, they are always there supporting me from start to finish. It doesn't matter how early the race starts or how bad the weather is!
What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?
As a father of two trying to ensure that my children pick up healthy habits, I am very pleased to have come across a company so committed to the environment and low carbon emissions. Sundried is a very good example of how to produce high quality products doing things the right way.
Regarding my favourite bit of kit, I had the opportunity to try the cycle pro bib shorts and I would definitely recommend them, they are very well crafted and comfy.
