Draft Zones, Burnout, and Back-to-Back Racing: Inside the Realities of Pro Tri Life

In this episode of the Real Triathlon Podcast, hosts Lisa Becharas, Jackson Laundrie, Nicholas Chase, and Garrick Loewen engage in a lively discussion covering a range of topics from personal updates and training challenges to insights on upcoming races and the dynamics of the T100 series. The conversation flows through reflections on past episodes, the importance of social connections in the sport, and practical advice on recovery techniques like cold plunges. The hosts also share their experiences and thoughts on the Roth race, highlighting the excitement and logistics involved. As they wrap up, they touch on the need for more engaging race formats to attract viewers and enhance the sport's appeal. In this episode, the hosts engage in a lighthearted conversation filled with humor and banter, discussing upcoming races, personal training challenges, and the intricacies of triathlon life. They share insights on swim camps, coaching, and the importance of nutrition while also diving into fun segments like 'Pass or Smash' and 'Grind My Gears' where they express their frustrations about airport etiquette and food choices. The episode captures the camaraderie and shared experiences of triathletes, making it relatable and entertaining for listeners.

In this episode of The Real Triathlon Podcast, Jackson Laundry, Lisa Becharas, and Garrick Loewen dive into the gritty side of professional triathlon—back-to-back races, tactical bike packs, and the often blurry lines between fair racing and chaos. Lisa breaks down what it’s really like to finish dead last at a T100 race and why she wouldn’t trade the experience, even after racing three weekends in a row. Garrick shares his recovery process after racing Ironman Brazil and Eagleman, while Jackson reveals his full-on mission to fix his swim technique and gain marginal gains on the bike. They talk honest money—appearance fees vs. prize purses—and vent frustrations with T100’s confusing payout system. Plus, why can't the T100 make a professional-looking run course, to power meter rivalries and wild fan encounters mid-race. Stick around for the classic Pass or Smash segment where the trio fires off takes on snorkels, swim fins, and triathlon media beef. Real talk, laughs, and no sugar-coating—just how you like it.   If you want to go above and beyond consider supporting us over on Patreon by clicking here!   Follow us on Instagram at @realtrisquad for updates on new episodes.    Individual Instagram handles: Garrick Loewen - @loeweng Nicholas Chase - @race_chase Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas  

This week on The Real Triathlon Podcast, Garrick Loewen is joined by pro triathlete and returning guest co-host Nicole Falcaro to unpack a wild stretch of racing. Garrick recounts his back-to-back Ironman Brazil and Eagleman 70.3 experiences—including how he unintentionally found himself racing while still in a post-Ironman fog. Nicole brings her trademark wit and insight as they debate everything from race day fueling (ice cream and beer, anyone?) to sunblock strategies, flat bike courses, and the challenge of staying sharp through back-to-back events. The duo also dive deep into the fairness issues in pro racing—particularly how slow pro men can interfere in women’s races—and brainstorm real solutions for cleaner competition. Stick around for a spirited “Pass or Smash” gear and habits segment, complete with caffeine rituals, bib hacks, and cold-weather vest skepticism. It’s unfiltered, funny, and full of practical takeaways for any triathlete navigating the demands of elite racing and real life.   If you want to go above and beyond consider supporting us over on Patreon by clicking here!   Follow us on Instagram at @realtrisquad for updates on new episodes.    Individual Instagram handles: Garrick Loewen - @loeweng Nicholas Chase - @race_chase Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas  

Live(ish) from a remote Airbnb near Cambridge, Maryland, Lisa Becharas and Garrick Loewen dive into the chaos of travel mishaps, back-to-back racing, and what it takes to survive (and fund) the pro triathlon circuit. Lisa recaps her rough-but-rewarding T100 San Francisco experience, previews racing three weekends in a row, and the crew debates excessively early Kona predictions. Garrick shares his consistent finish in Brazil, monster training blocks, and goals for Eagleman 70.3. They debate: Why staying 40 minutes from a race might not be the worst call Whether Race Ranger is fixing draft dynamics or making things worse If Ironman is still king compared to T100's cash and coverage The insane 2:38 and 2:40 women’s Ironman marathon times and what it means for the future And why some top pros just don’t care about Kona With hot takes, tactical insights, and a few “pass or smash” moments (like using maple syrup as race fuel), it’s a classic Real Triathlon Pod hangout. 🎧 Perfect for race week motivation, long rides, or anyone debating whether Kona is really worth the hype.   If you want to go above and beyond consider supporting us over on Patreon by clicking here!   Follow us on Instagram at @realtrisquad for updates on new episodes.    Individual Instagram handles: Garrick Loewen - @loeweng Nicholas Chase - @race_chase Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas  

In this episode of The Real Triathlon Podcast, pro triathletes Jackson Laundry, Garrick Loewen, and Nick Chase dive into a detailed race recap of the 2025 Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga (Duathlon edition) and launch Jackson’s ambitious new "Project 8" training initiative—his mission to shave 8 minutes off his run time. Jackson breaks down his bike performance, tactics, power data, and the challenges of a no-swim format. He shares lessons from lost nutrition, traffic interference, and being passed by some of the fastest runners in the sport. Garrick gives updates on his injury rehab, a successful new bike fit, and his prep for Ironman Brazil 2025. Meanwhile, Nick talks race-day nutrition, efficiency hacks for athletes who hate cooking, and his hot take on what pro triathletes should wear during travel and events. Also covered: Triathlon run training tips: strides, plyometrics, skipping drills Chattanooga race conditions and course analysis Equipment mishaps and how they affect performance Fan shoutouts from Chattanooga and beyond The origins of “Project 8” and how to apply it to your own racing goals Whether you're training for your next 70.3 or just love triathlon banter, this episode is packed with race strategy insights, endurance training tips, and real talk from the pros.

The crew is back from the 2025 St. George 70.3 North American Championship — and they’ve got stories. In this episode, Lisa Becharas, Jackson Laundry, Marc Dubrick and Garrick Loewen unpack a wild weekend of racing under the desert sun. From Lisa’s breakout swim (and bike leg haunted by a rogue shoelace) to Jackson grinding out a top-10 after battling injury, and Marc Dubrick’s solo swim effort that left him stranded between packs, it’s a raw and real look inside the race. They go deep on course confusion, the brutal coverage cutaways (sorry Colin), heat survival hacks, and what it’s like to get passed—and cheer—for your rivals. Plus: bone broth, Garrick's bike fit, T100 race updates, and Lisa’s dog’s questionable gut health. Equal parts analysis and chaos, this is the episode that proves triathlon is never just about swim, bike, run.   If you want to go above and beyond consider supporting us over on Patreon by clicking here!   Follow us on Instagram at @realtrisquad for updates on new episodes.    Individual Instagram handles: Garrick Loewen - @loeweng Nicholas Chase - @race_chase Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas

In this episode of The Real Triathlon Podcast, Lisa Becharas, Jackson Laundrie, and Garrick Loewen are joined by 2025 St. Anthony’s Triathlon champion Marc Dubrick. The crew dives into Marc’s back-to-back wins and how he executed the perfect swim-bike-run strategy, despite unexpected pre-race chaos and a strange swim start. Lisa opens up about racing through a painful saddle sore and lingering infection, while Jackson shares how he clawed his way into the top 10 after a long racing hiatus. Garrick gives a raw update on his DNF at Ironman Texas, including his struggle with pain and the tough call to pull out mid-race. With honest takes, plenty of laughs, and unfiltered moments (including a wild dinner table medical consult), this episode is a must-listen for triathlon fans.   If you want to go above and beyond consider supporting us over on Patreon by clicking here!   Follow us on Instagram at @realtrisquad for updates on new episodes.    Individual Instagram handles: Garrick Loewen - @loeweng Nicholas Chase - @race_chase Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas

In this episode of the Real Triathlon Podcast, hosts Lisa Becharas, Jackson Laundrie, Garrick Loewen, and Nicholas Chase discuss various topics including the dynamics of their team, the current political climate in Canada, the upcoming St. Anthony's race, and the potential for betting to elevate the sport of triathlon. The conversation flows from light-hearted banter to serious discussions about competition and the future of the sport. In this segment, the conversation revolves around the dynamics of upcoming triathlons, particularly focusing on the changes in race formats, the competitive landscape, and personal expectations for Ironman Texas. The participants share insights on their training, the challenges they anticipate, and humorous anecdotes about making everyday tasks competitive. The discussion highlights the camaraderie and competitive spirit among triathletes as they prepare for their respective races. In this conversation, the participants explore various themes ranging from frugal living and resourcefulness to the nostalgia of smoking sections in restaurants. They discuss the perceptions of time, particularly in relation to airports, and delve into the controversial nature of sponsorships in sports, particularly regarding nicotine products. The conversation also touches on upcoming triathlon races and the evolving structures and rankings within the sport, highlighting the complexities and changes that athletes face. In this conversation, the participants discuss the complexities of athlete contracts within the triathlon community, particularly focusing on the PTO series and the Contender Series. They explore the implications of contract acceptance and the associated penalties for athletes, as well as the payout structures and rankings that influence their decisions. The discussion also touches on rumors circulating within the community, the locations of upcoming 70.3 World Championships, and the challenges posed by course elevations. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of triathlon races and the importance of community engagement.

In this episode, we discuss Lisa's recent performance at the Ironman 70.3 Oceanside, highlighting her strategy, challenges, and overall race experience. We also delve into the commentary and broadcast quality of the coverage, the interaction between male and female competitors, and propose ideas for improving future triathlon races. Nick explores the challenges of his travel, cultural insights, and the safety concerns he encountered. The conversation also touches on upcoming races and training plans, emphasizing the camaraderie and community within the triathlon world. We discuss our training updates, challenges faced during the season, and the fun segment 'Guess What Lionel Said.' They share insights on race plans, entry fees, and the journey of fellow athlete Marc Dubrick. The conversation also touches on injury updates, future races, and personal running goals, creating a comprehensive overview of our experiences in the triathlon world. If you want to go above and beyond consider supporting us over on Patreon by clicking here!   Follow us on Instagram at @realtrisquad for updates on new episodes.    Individual Instagram handles: Garrick Loewen - @loeweng Nicholas Chase - @race_chase Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas

Two pros. No fluff. In this episode, Jackson Laundry and Garrick Loewen delve into the sessions that actually move the needle. From high-return threshold sets to brutally honest breakdowns of what’s overhyped in triathlon training. Jackson shares the key workouts that have made him one of the most consistent racers in the world, while Garrick compares notes and dishes on his own progression as a pro triathlete. They talk volume, intensity, structure—and the mental side of staying sharp when the training gets heavy. Whether you’re trying to PR your next 70.3 or just curious about how the pros train, this episode brings real insight from two athletes who live and breathe the sport.