Post-Race Reactions - Miguel Hidalgo

I’ve always believed that resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it's a way of life. Even our greatest heroes face moments of chaos in a race, and Miguel Hidalgo’s journey in this World Triathlon Championship Series (WTCS) event is proof that you can turn unforeseen setbacks into powerful comebacks.

From the beginning, the day seemed set to be intense and physically demanding. Miguel hit the swim portion with determination, only to find himself unexpectedly surrounded and jostled by other competitors—talk about getting caught in the eye of the storm. He slipped into a position he wasn’t used to, much like finding yourself on an unfamiliar detour when you were sure you had the perfect route mapped out. But here’s the thing: being “off-plan” doesn’t mean you’re destined to stay behind.

On the bike, Miguel showed how teamwork and support can spark a comeback. He chased down the lead group with fellow athletes like Seb Kandel, bridging the gap crucially before the run. I’ve often compared triathlon to business investments: you don’t need to be a superstar in every discipline if you stay consistent and rely on good strategy. In that regard, Miguel and his teammates exemplified the same principle—persistence pays off, and you don’t have to be flawless to achieve a podium finish.

One key factor fueling Miguel’s success is his altitude training. He mentioned he’s in the best shape of his life, and as any seasoned triathlete can confirm (including Lionel Sanders, fondly known as “Mr. No Limits”), the high-altitude grind can produce remarkable results. Still, even with peak conditioning, overcoming that initial swim setback took massive mental fortitude. When he finally transitioned, he found himself better positioned on the bike than in previous races, a sure sign of continuous improvement.

Crossing the line to earn his second WTCS bronze medal showed both his patience and perseverance—two ingredients as vital as physical strength. Although he admitted some disappointment at not snatching the win, he recognizes this as a stepping stone rather than the finish line. Much like the financial concept of compound interest, each experience adds exponential gains. Miguel firmly believes his first WTCS victory is close on the horizon, and that’s the spark of hope every triathlete (and dreamer) needs to keep going.

If there’s a takeaway to tattoo on your mind, it’s this: when setbacks strike, don’t let them define you. The secret is to keep racing, keep learning, and never let one tough moment derail your entire journey. Miguel’s story reminds us that true success comes from riding the waves of unpredictability and coming out stronger each time—one stroke, pedal, and stride at a time.