Despite securing a third-place finish at the prestigious T100 Singapore event, IRONMAN World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay has a poignant message for amateur triathletes: Don't mimic everything you see the pros doing.

Lucy's journey through the T100 Singapore was not just a test of endurance but also a battle against her health. She grappled with cold and flu symptoms during the race week and nearly decided against competing. Her experience sheds light on the often unseen tough decisions that professional athletes make, which can serve as a crucial learning curve for the rest of us.

The Professional's Conundrum: To Race or Not to Race?

Professional triathletes like Lucy often wrestle with the decision to compete while unwell. Unlike amateurs, who might race for personal fulfillment, professionals contend with contractual duties, ranking points, and financial stakes that heavily influence their choices.

For Lucy, the T100 Singapore wasn't just another race; it marked her return to competition after a muscle injury sidelined her for the latter half of the 2024 season, thwarting her defense of the IRONMAN World Championship title. She had been gearing up for this moment, with robust training sessions and promising momentum. When illness struck, she faced a dilemma familiar to many in her field: to push through the discomfort or to step back?

Nine times out of ten, I wouldn't start a race this brutal after being sick. That's the smart choice. But this was the one time I felt the mental toll of a DNS (Did Not Start) would've been worse than the physical toll of racing. Lucy shared on her social media. This decision, driven by her unique circumstances and the mental stakes involved, underscores a critical lesson for amateurs: the context of professional athletes is often different, and their decisions should not be blindly followed.

Understanding the Impact of Illness on Performance

Lucy's performance, despite her podium finish, was notably impacted by her health. She reported that her power output on the bike was significantly lower than usual—a clear indicator of how illness can affect physical capabilities. Sports medicine research supports this, noting that even mild respiratory infections can decrease aerobic capacity by 5-15% and impair muscle function and coordination.

Interestingly, Lucy observed that her heat tolerance was unaffected, suggesting that different physiological systems can respond differently to illness. However, competing while sick can prolong recovery times and potentially affect subsequent training and performance.

A Framework for Decision-Making: When to Rest, When to Race

Lucy's candid reflection offers a valuable framework for making informed decisions about racing when unwell. Here are some guidelines based on her experience and sports medicine advice:

The Bigger Picture: Health Over Performance

Lucy's experience is a powerful reminder that health should always come first. The allure of competition is strong, but the risks of racing while sick can lead to more severe health issues and prolonged recovery times. Her advice to prioritize health and make informed, context-driven decisions can help amateur athletes avoid unnecessary risks and foster a longer, healthier sporting career.

In conclusion, while the grit and determination of professional athletes like Lucy Charles-Barclay are undoubtedly inspiring, it's crucial to remember that their decisions are often influenced by factors that don't apply to amateur competitors. Next time you're faced with the decision to race or rest, remember Lucy's advice: prioritize your health, and let the pros take the risks.