As the experienced runners, swimmers, and cyclists out there are probably fully aware, the best race season kicks off in Cozumel in early fall. Whether you have already secured your place in the GFNY, Ironman, or 70.3 events on the island, or are still deciding which competition to choose, here are 5 pre-race tips to ensure you perform your best on the big day. Ready, set, read!
1. A Good Night's Sleep Goes a Long Way
The days leading up to the race involve adjusting logistical details, but also a good night’s sleep, especially the night before your competition. We recommend giving this part of your pre-race ritual careful consideration. Look for comfortable beds, serene surroundings, plenty of space for you and your cheering squad, not to mention a resort with everything at your fingertips—or even 24-hour room service so that you never have to leave your room and avoid the pre-race nerves that come with running into fellow competitors! Don’t forget to ask if your chosen resort has a dedicated indoor area to protect your bike, so you don’t need to haul it up and down from your room.
2. Plan Ahead, Stay Close and Arrive Early
As seasoned triathletes and cyclists are well aware, you are generally required to pick up your race number and competitor kit in advance, at a specified location. Keep things simple, save time, energy, and avoid the extra stress of traveling back and forth the day before the competition by staying at a resort near to the registration site. For the most famous competitions held in Cozumel, the pick-up point is usually at the Convention Center, which, opposite Cozumel Palace. Also, by arriving prior to everyone else, you'll be able to get a look at the competition route without the crowds and get mentally prepared.
“When I competed in the GFNY, we stayed at Cozumel Palace because it was right across from the pick-up point for competitors’ kits and only half a block aways from the finish line, plus it was all-inclusive so we didn’t have to queue up at local restaurants at any time” Erika Cañas, Mexico
3. Take Time to Relax and Recharge
So, you have committed to intensive daily training sessions and hard work in preparation for race week. All that's left now is to relax and conserve your energy stores before taking your body to the limit. Make sure you give yourself some “me time” prior to the event, so that you will be 100% focused on every stroke, stride or rotation. Why not give yourself the edge with a sports massage, or revitalizing treatment to unite body, mind and soul, (or even a post-competition session of pampering?)
And once you cross that finish line, make time to wind down—after all, you deserve it! Hit the infinity pool, choose your favorite snack and sip on a refreshing drink, all at your fingertips and all-included.
4. Fuel up and Hydrate
When you are away from home, it can sometimes be challenging to follow your special diet. As part of your race day checklist, be sure to choose a resort that caters to your dietary requirements, as what you eat will be your best friend, and your ticket to optimal performance. Look for options which include special athlete’s menus and restaurant hours that open in time for early morning events.
After your race, let loose with local cuisine and celebrate your personal victory with the gourmet dish or snack you have had your eye on for ages!
“The hospitality on the day of the event was really top notch and they even looked after us at the breakfast buffet which was already open at 5 a.m. with everything we needed to perform well, oatmeal, fruit, bread, etc.”Erika Cañas, Mexico
5. Enjoy the Atmosphere and Focus on You
Trust in the fact that you have done everything you can possibly do to arrive in Cozumel in an excellent physical, mental and emotional state. All that’s left is to put it all together to achieve your personal best on the big day. In order to do so stress-free, look for a resort where your loved ones and cheering squad are well-looked after, before, during and after the race. Why have them standing in a crowd, when they could be seated in a shaded area where they can watch you cycle past, and also have food and drinks at their fingertips, to keep their energy up to show their support loudly every time they see you?
We hope these tips help you cross the finish line with a huge smile and ready to savor post-race achievement! The great thing about Cozumel is that it is not only a destination surrounded by turquoise water and tropical warmth, it is also a popular host island for amateur and professional sports events. Pick your next race in paradise and prepare for victory.