Olympic Triathlon Champion's Daring 5K Challenge: "Triathlon in February Makes No Sense"

As the dawn of 2025 unfurls its promise, Olympic champion Cassandre Beaugrand is charting a path that veers slightly off the conventional triathlon circuit. This year, instead of plunging into the chilly competitive waters of the World Triathlon Championship Series in Abu Dhabi this February, she's setting her sights on a different kind of challenge—a 5k race in the scenic heart of Monaco.

Cassandre, a beacon of athletic prowess, isn't just any triathlete. Fresh from a triumphant 2024, adorned with Olympic gold and a World Triathlon Championship Series title, she's not one to rest on her laurels. Her decision to skip the traditional season opener in Abu Dhabi isn't about taking it easy. Instead, it's a calculated strategy to sharpen her running skills, an essential component of her triathlon arsenal.

Speaking to L’Equipe, Cassandre shared her perspective on racing in February, "It makes no sense to me." Her words resonate with the wisdom of an athlete who knows her body and her goals. "What motivates me is to have fun with other objectives than pure triathlon. If I can have fun with running races, that can be a cool intermediate objective."

This approach is not just about diversification but also about honing specific skills in a less pressured environment. The Monaco 5k offers a prestigious platform, known for its fast course where national and world records have tumbled. For Cassandre, who has never officially timed a 5k on the road, this race is not just another run; it's a litmus test for her pace and endurance.

Under the guidance of her Belgian coach, Glenn Poleunis, with whom she's currently training in Girona after moving from her previous base in Loughborough, Cassandre is recalibrating her training to meet the unique demands of her 2025 campaign. The focus is clear—excellence in every stride, whether on the triathlon course or a dedicated running track.

Looking beyond Monaco, Cassandre's calendar is meticulously planned. She will compete in the T1 Indoor Triathlon World Cup in Liévin come March, before diving into her World Triathlon Championship Series campaign in Yokohama in May. Each race is a stepping stone, carefully chosen to build her strength, speed, and strategy towards defending her titles and perhaps, setting new records.

For aspiring triathletes and fans, Cassandre Beaugrand’s approach this season is a masterclass in strategic planning and adaptability. It’s a reminder that sometimes, stepping off the beaten path can lead to greater gains. Her journey underscores the importance of listening to one’s body and being bold enough to tailor one’s training and competition schedule to personal strengths and goals. As we watch her take on Monaco, and beyond, it’s clear that for champions like Cassandre, every race, every training session is a building block towards greatness.