Q&A with Julie Derron

We were very fortunate to catch up with Julie Derron, winner of Dubai T100 last weekend and get a few insights into the world of a professional triathlete. Julie is coached by Brett Sutton, one of the leading triathlon coaches and currently Head Coach of the Chinese Triathlon Federation. 

Q: It was great to see you back in Dubai last weekend and many congratulations on taking the win on Saturday at the T100. You looked particularly strong after coming back from injury and time out. How did it feel to be back in Dubai and racing again?

It was great to be back in Dubai. I felt really welcome and almost a little like coming home having spent a couple of weeks there last year and knowing where to train and go for coffee. Knowing the course already helped me to feel well prepared and I could really visualize the race. I was just really happy to be back on the T100 tour and race again. 

Q: A question I often get asked as a coach is what is the "pre-race routine"? What do you typically do the day before a big race and is it always the same?

I generally always do the same the day before the race. However, you have to be adaptable to the conditions and logistics of the race venue. Usually, I do a little bit of swim, bike, run. But the order can vary depending on logistics. Furthermore, I try to be conscious about fueling, for example cutting down on fibers in my meals.

Q: You’re known for quick transitions thanks to your short-course background. If you could give age-groupers just one practical tip to meaningfully improve their transition times, what would it be?

I would suggest practicing the transition routine so you don’t have to think about it when you get into transition. Make sure you have everything set up efficiently so you can just grab and go. 

Q: Everyone in triathlon comments on your running form - were you always a naturally gifted runner, or have you consciously changed your technique over the years? What were the biggest changes you made, and how did you work on them?

I definitely have not always been the runner I am today. It’s been a long process of consistent improvement. With my coach we really just built up my running gradually and year on year I got a little bit better. We did not actively change my technique, however, if we did one important change it would be starting to run with sticks in my hands. It unconsciously helps to keep my form while running. Finally, my most important advice would be to be consistent. You don’t need to do any crazy sessions but you just need to keep at it. 

Q: As a pro you’re constantly on the move. What strategies or habits do you use to maximize recovery while travelling? How much sleep do you typically aim for on a daily basis.

For me sleep is the most important recovery tool. I aim for at least 8h per night and usually have a 20-30 minute nap during the day. Furthermore, I focus on fueling and hydrating well. I also try to get massages or hot baths regularly. However, I think it’s important not to get stressed if something doesn’t work out perfectly as you had imagined. Especially when travelling a lot, being flexible is important. 

Q: You’ve raced at the highest level under pressure. What’s one mental strategy you rely on during races, especially when things get tough?

I race well when I feel prepared. So being physically ready and mentally knowing what to expect helps me. During the race I try to focus on the task at hand and not think too far ahead. My coach tells me a lot to focus on the next 10 meters and 10 seconds and try to do the best you can in this particular moment. 

Your win in Dubai sets up the T100 series for a great final in Qatar. We wish you all the very best for the race (see you there!)

Julie Derron was interviewed by David Hunt certified TriSutto coach