Q&A with Leanne Fanoy
A week away from Dubai70.3, we met with Leanne Fanoy, #3-seed pro-athlete.
Originally from the Netherlands, Leanne is a 25 years old, down to earth triathlete who partly resides in Abu Dhabi and who will represent the UAE at the Dubai70.3 next weekend. Together with her partner Hugh, they run a triathlon coaching and camps business in France (Tri-Topia). Leanne only recently turned pro and she is one of the youngest pro-athletes in the long-distance field. ‘Unlike most of the pros, I jumped straight into long distance triathlon. It suits me, I am a diesel engine.’
How do you balance the training as a pro and your coaching business?
The coaching business gives me a distraction from the hard training. I wouldn’t be able to do the training only, full time. In France, we have a very good set-up with our own 25m swimming pool and many km of safe roads where I can ride down on the tri-bars. It’s really a great location for our business.
How come you race under the UAE colors?
I grew up in Abu Dhabi and it always feels like home. I represent the UAE whenever I can. Racing in Dubai is always a fantastic feeling as I know many people and I always hear someone cheering me on. I am actually a member of the Tri-Belles and I try to race locally as much as I can.
How do you feel being #3-seed for the Dubai70.3 and what is going to be your strategy?
It’s extra pressure for sure but I have written down the numbers and I know what I have to do. I am going for a podium. I know the course by heart and it suits me well, flat and fast. My strategy is to stick with a group during the swim and then hopefully start the bike with the same group. My strongest leg is the run but it will be a bit of an unknown. I think Laura Philipp will be the one to beat but I consider Carolin Lehrieder to be my biggest competitor.
Who are you coached by?
Tim Don prepares my program for the swim and run. I have been with them for 2 years now. For the bike, I train with Matt Bottrill.
Which other races do you have on your calendar for this year?
My goals are to race the IM70.3 Mallorca in May, and then I will choose between the Ironman European Championship in Hamburg in June or Challenge Roth in July. Either one will suit me well with their flat courses. Obviously, I would like to win my ticket to Kona but it’s going to be hard with the new slot system.
We wish Leanne all the best in her promising career as a pro-athlete. We can’t wait to see her race in Dubai next week and hope for a podium ranking.
Follow Leanne Fanoy on Instagram @lfanoy and @tritopia
