#247 From Novice to Number 2 in the World: We welcome back Ironman Triathlete Rachael Smyth!

After Seán talks about the Art O"Neill cancellation, why he should not do it in May (even though he is tempted), and the Donadea Half Marathon over the weekend, Eric catches up with Rachael Smyth and her incredible performance in last month"s Ironman World Championships!  Rachael and Eric discuss the challenges of training across continents, the pressures and triumphs of racing, and Rachael"s HUGE future plans in the sport! 11:03 Rachel"s Triathlon Journey  21:51 Race Day Experiences  24:37 Training and Preparation  26:36 Mental Toughness and Endurance  33:12 Balancing Training and Life  45:10 Routine and Motivation  54:29 Get Your Ass in Gear: The Importance of Preparation  56:11 Racing Strategy: Building Up to the World Championship  56:49 The Busselton Experience: Racing with the Pros  57:52 Trusting the Process: Training and Recovery  01:03:23 Race Day: The World Championship in New Zealand  01:06:58 The Final Push: Overcoming Challenges on the Course  01:15:34 Crossing the Finish Line: Achieving Second in the World  01:32:28 What"s Next for Rachael in the Triathlon World  This episode is sponsored by ULTRAPURE Laboratories. Ask for the ULTRAPURE Laboratories Muscle Recovery range in your local Pharmacy or Health Store. Their ULTRAPURE Wintergreen Heat Rub is great for winter training on cold and wet days! You can also check out their muscle recovery range through their website: Ultrapurelabs.ie You can now get 25% off all Perform Nutrition products using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com