What was it really like to race IRONMAN Lake Placid 2026?
Fresh off the finish line, Coach Jill Bartholomew sits down with fellow triathlon coach Thomas Skelton to unpack one of the most memorable editions of IRONMAN Lake Placid in recent years.
From smoky skies caused by Canadian wildfires to surprisingly windy bike conditions, crowded swims, mechanical mishaps, and the mental challenges of adapting when race day doesn't go according to plan, this episode is an honest conversation between two experienced coaches who also happened to be racing.
Whether you're preparing for your first Ironman, chasing a Kona qualification, or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from one of triathlon's most iconic races, you'll come away with practical lessons that apply well beyond Lake Placid.
In this episode
• Race week in Lake Placid, including wildfire smoke, changing weather, and race-day conditions
• Why this year's swim felt more physical than previous editions
• Swim pacing, drafting, and navigating crowded open-water starts
• The Lake Placid bike course, including the Keene descent and changing wind conditions
• Equipment decisions and the challenges of racing on new equipment
• Common race-day mechanical problems and how to prepare for them
• Racing while simultaneously coaching athletes
• The value of volunteering at triathlon events
• Mental strategies for adapting when your race doesn't unfold as planned
• Lessons both coaches will take into future races
Resources & Links
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If you are training for a Triathlon or Run event of any distance from your first 10k to your first full IRONMAN and beyond, connect with Jill to talk about how to take your performance to the next level! Jill is the Head Coach and owner of Be Fierce Multisport is a full time, professional coach and works with athletes of all skill levels.
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