I was probably checking my phone every hour for the past week to see if you uploaded a video. You are a true inspiration and a true warrior, thank you.
Lionel: I enjoy watching your videos. You're tough and a hard worker. But dude, get a coach and nutritionist. Get someone to drill it into your head. When you do brick workouts, you should be fuelling as if it were Kona. It has to be a habit. Just like checking your power meter or pool laps, eating and drinking just has to be a part of the workout. I remember watching one of your videos about a month ago, where you got very detailed in weighing yourself and calculating your water loss during exercise. You also got detailed on how many carbs and electrolytes you needed. It sounded like you had it down really well. You knew how often to feed during the race, and how much buffer you had (not much; very fine line) So many of your videos are talking about food. And all those Gatorade bottles? A tour of your pain cave with huge tubs of Gatorade. It's obvious you down Gatorade like it's going out of style...how does a guy that serious about hydration mess up during the biggest race of the year... Multiple times?!?! So Kona 2019 happens, and your biggest mistake was misfuelling? Not enough hydration during the ride? Missing water at an aid station? Finishing the ride confused with blurry vision? Dude, you said it yourself: once you're thristy, it's too late. Once you're hungry, it's too late. You can't catch up on nutrition unless you slow down or stop for a while. In another video, you said you never get hungry during a race. Like no food cravings. I'm not a pro, and I'm not even fast, so people can say I've got no room to talk. But whatever. You train too hard to screw up on race day with something simple like bottles and gels. You owe it to your family, friends and fans... And most of all, you owe it to yourself. Don't screw up the basics anymore. Good luck, but drinking Gatorade and downing some gels should be the easiest part of every workout. Just do it.
@@DC66DC Lionel has the hardest part down - the discipline. The coach and external help is not for discipline - that comes only from within. The coach is for the fine details, and it's clear that Lionel needs help with the fine details to get to the next level.
It is amazing how you quickly objectively assess where you are and move forward. You are an inspiration. Please keep the vlogs going on your journey. It helps so many people.
Saw you and Alistair running together as I was headed out to the Energy Lab. I had a similar situation regarding nutrition when the volunteers misplaced my special needs bag on the bike. It cost me 600 calories of my nutrition and I didn't adapt well to that. Honor to share the course with you. I have no doubt you'll come back stronger and faster.
The stuff you can’t control...volunteers misplacing a special needs bag....that’s extremely frustrating and it sucks that anyone has to deal with that EVER. It’s impossible to carry everything you need for a 140.6 supplemented by the bags in T1 and T2 while at the same time racing a personal best. Hopefully the right people will hear about things like your story (and other) and they can get their crap together next time.
still my #1 Triathlete PLEASE get an experienced coach Lionel. That might be the last piece of the puzzle. You have EVERYTHING else. I watch these races solely to see you crush it. You deserve it, get an experienced coach.
Obviously not the impact you wanted to have but I appreciate you breaking down what happened. Did my first half Ironman this year and overheated on the run and felt very similar to what you described. Nice to know it’s a very preventable problem. Also there is a very sweet camaraderie built from two people just suffering to make it through, loved that story.
That was gutsy. It was a long shot to get there and I really feel for you given how you made some errors with respect to nutrition. Please get a coach sooner than later. This will help with organizing priorities and not forgetting them - you will have more energy to train rather than burn cycles on mistakes and doubt. You are inspirational and it would be amazing to see you succeed the way you want to. We are still with you!
Lionel is clearly a boss, with all the things he has experienced (personal problems). He has taken his life in his hands to become the best version of himself. He has a champion mind and a great physical condition. Certainly, he is not like Jan Frodeno who is undoubtedly THE boss of the long distances, but he runs in professional with the best athletes of the circuit and in Kona, which is the race dreamed by all the triathletes and one of the hardest. In addition, he has already won some races and came 2nd in Kona. So yes he is clearly a boss . Mr Sanders, hat off to you!
Lionel you're good boi! I don't think you realize how many people are positively impacted by you. Keep going man, we will always be here cheering for you. Now go play some golf.
Mas sera atleta de distancia longa ou só de 70.3?? A grande fraqueza continua a ser a corrida...não vi uma grande evolução...antes pelo contrário!! Caiu na tabela ao longo da corrida...
It’s crazy how many of these comments are so single focused on a coach when Lionel addresses that in the video...he filled the void and it didn’t work out so the next step is to fill the void with someone who is a better fit. So many people here are keyboard warriors. I appreciate the honesty and raw self introspection that LS is willing to show to the world.
Seems Lionel needs to remember three things but he can only ever remember two of them at one time. I look forward to next year when he tells us he nailed his nutrition but forgot to have an off season whilst racing 70.3s every 6 weeks.
Most pro athletes stop when there is no money in the race. You never quit. It's why I love to follow your channel. You are such a legend Lionel, and the way you let us in on your experiences, good and especially bad... Humbling. Fan for life buddy.
if there is one thing I am learning from watching your videos, its the nutrition. Its hard to believe how important it is to just drink water. Keep it man! you're an inspiration to all of us!!!
Dude, nothing but respect. A big piece of moving forward, is realizing your deficiencies and adjusting your plan to makeup for them. Can’t wait to see how you do next year in Kona!
Remember that you had a GREAT effort coming off of a MAJOR injury, so CONGRATULATIONS on your finish. As I stated last year, I think you are a ROCKSTAR that I enjoy following. We have similar taste and need to share playlists. I really wish I could see you team up with one coach and see what happens vs self coaching. Best of luck and PLEASE consider trusting a coach you believe in and see what happens trusting a coach. Stay strong, stay positive and keep on truckin.
Get Dave Scott or Luc Van Lierde as your coach, same mentality and alot of experience. Start doing some track workouts and improve your running dynamics. So much to be gained not in terms of speed but in terms of efficiency and injury prevention. You can do it, we know you can. Great inspiration
All the best Lionel on your next races. Considering everything you have gone through over the last 6 months, being part of the leading pack at T2 is very admirable. Been following for a bit, and one part of your training that makes me cringe is your nutrition (pizza, cup noodles). Treat your body like a sacred temple and consume only the most natural and healthiest foods possible at all times. Your Gut will thank you for it.
Don't be so hard on yourself, you are an inspiration for so many out there. Thanks for that. You are still the boss, but even so, you have to be accountable to someone, please get a coach, really!
Dude. You're the man. Your humility, your honesty and your candor are refreshing and real. We struggle, one day at a time. You motivate me and need to know you there are a lot of us following and believing in you. Thank you for all you do. Peace.
Lionel you're going to learn and come back stronger in 2020, it was a massive achievement to get to Kona this year on so little time. I think everybody knows that. Take time to chill go hit the golf course. I wish you all the very best for the three 70.3's your have planned. I have loved following your journey for the last few years and look forward to the celebration video from Kona win number 1 because it will come. !!!!!!!!!
From what I saw from your past videos, you were able to get to where you're at with only a few months if not weeks of hard training. Removing the nutrition factor, I think you would've been up there in the top 5-ish so I think that's something encouraging to take in. You have the strength and ability, it's just finding the right diet/nutrition plan for race day. You're an inspiration to many. Keep up the hard work and looking forward to follow your progression !
I experienced something similar in my first full IM this year in Cork, Ireland. Exact opposite to Kona weather wise, TERRIBLE storm arrived the day of the race, swim cancelled but the rain and wind were BRUTAL. Was semi hypothermic getting off the bike.. it was THE MOST DIFFICULT HORRENDOUS day I ever put down, but Mike Reilly was at the finish line and despite nausea, dizziness, hypothermia I was crossing that finish line to hear him tell me I was an Ironman. Had to walk run the marathon after 18k and the only reason I ran was because I couldn’t cope with the cold when I walked. Following you guys also gave me massive motivation to dig deep as I get such inspiration from you all. It’s awesome to know you too get inspiration from all of us :)
I love it when you win, and I will be over the moon when you win in Kona, but I don't follow you because of your victories. I watch every race you compete in, and all of your posts because you inspire me to NOT quit. Your contribution to this sport, and to so many aspiring triathletes far exceeds anything any podium could offer. Looking forward to more of it!!
Lionel, I ran my first marathon today. It wasn't the best time out there but it certainly was a huge step for me in terms of racing. You were one of my main sources of motivation and you inspire so many other people to just get out there and just start getting some running done. You may have let yourself down but you certainly haven't let your community down. And even if you had dropped out of the race after mile 7 we still would have been there to support you! Safety first. There's ups and downs in life, that's simply how it works and you know that for sure. Keep doing what you're doing. Keep moving forward. Thank you!
2018: Ironman mont tremblant 2nd place to Cody Beals (nutritional issues) Ironman Kona 33rd place (nutritional issues) 2019: Ironman mont tremblant 2nd place to Cody Beals (nutritional issues) Ironman Kona 20th place (nutritional issues)
Kona is a mystical place that both gives and takes. Watching your journey adds to the pageantry. There is no doubt you will be back because as you know, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. If you ever get to Oahu, give me shout. Love to train with you. Casey
You train and you learn, and you race and you learn. You’re a champion Lionel, see you back there next year better prepared and race ready! So impressive to see Pros like yourself getting to the finish line despite the pain, and having a bad race day sets a great example!
You may not have won Lionel or performed the way you had wished. But you never fail to give it your all. Thats why we all love you. To see you running with Alistair and helping him through too was beautiful to see. No matter the result you are still a bloody legend. I always think 'what would lionel do' when im in a race or training session and the going gets tough. Keep smashing it bud, we love your work ✌#nolimits
Lionel reach out to Macca as an advisor or coach you both have similar personalities. He dialed his nutrition to win the race. This maybe the key. Love watching your journey!
Bear in mind Lionel, conditions change so if u calculate ur sweat rates for kona, u might have a hot day, a cold day, etc. Thanks for running on, and walk jogging a 3:15 like a boss 😎🙌
Got Hawaii done,way to push Lionel! Your still The Man and the athlete that triathlon fans want to watch! Take a week or 2 off and then back on the horse! :)
Keep at it brother! Yours is the only pro channel I find myself keeping up with consistently. My three young sons know your name and your motivating back story.
Don’t beat yourself up too much Lionel, regardless of the result you’re inspiring so many people to change their lives including mine. This year I started out on my own journey to IRONMAN. So far I’ve lost 50 pounds and have been blogging it here on UA-cam. Keep being you Lionel
Thanks for taking the time to do a recap. Be proud you finished considering all of the stuff you had to deal with. Everybody needs a coach... Phelps, Woods, James, your competitors all have one, there's a reason for that. Be pissed off. Pissed off for greatness! 2020 or bust.
LS, you're my hero man! I can't wait to see what is in store for you in the future. You are the best triathlete in the universe! Its good to see you're learning a lot from this Kona experience. I'm a Lionel supporter for life!
Don’t be so tough on yourself man. Jan and TO seemed to go into this race as no big deal. Maybe focusing on the mental game would help improve results (build habits of positive meditations, affirmations, and mantras). If you’re too stressed going in it probably affects the gut/nutrition.
Wrong. Lionel is the toughest mentally. He was dehydrated. It’s imposdible to fight through. The issue is more not having a coach to direct and control all these factors.
Totally agree. Probably Lionel had to high expectations and so wasn't relaxed enough. Not relaxed organism won't absorb nutrition well (fuel basically) and it won't work to far. The same theory could be applied to Brownlee (to much expectation) and Sarah True (overheating in her case can also be a result of to much expectation from first qual try and then a stress of retrying and not succede in qualify). Look at Haug, Frodeno or O'Donnel. They simply calmly execute what they knew they were capable of. They were relaxed in their mind. Ofcourse they suffered physicaly like everybody but mental state is so so sooo important.
"Disappointed but motivated". That is a good mentality. Keep up the hard work, Lionel. You have been an inspiration for a lot of people. Way to finish a hard race when your body was giving out. Look forward to seeing how you respond and learn from this.
Look fella, rookie error, you’ve called it out yourself. But this has been a recovery year, in so many ways. The reason we respect you, is your ability to self-learn, ruthlessly. 2020, get your head straight, it’s your year.
Love you, Lionel. Big fan. But what about getting a coach first, then decide if racing in 2 weeks is the right play? Your very best thinking has gotten you nowhere in the last two IMWCs. The guy that's been making all the training, racing, and nutrition calls for the last two+ years needs to be fired. His results are unacceptable. Hire a new coach now, before that other guys makes any more bad decisions.
You inspire us Lionel. Do what you have to do and you will get that title in Kona. Ive been following you for a little over an year now and all this time you have been saying that you need a coach. Do it. You have all the qualities to win this and you will.
Lionel you are a true inspiration, seeing how emotional this disappointment is to you really shows how much this all matters to you. So much respect for sharing all this, Thank you and kill it next time.
Maslow’s Hierarchy, meet those physical needs before reaching for your goals. Be open to a full time coach that can support your dreams. We don’t always want to hear what they have to say, but at your level it becomes more of a team sport. Keep going Lionel, your dedication is inspiring. Thanks for sharing.
Lionel you're an inspiration to a lot of people here, and its great to see you humble yourself and recognize your opportunities. Can't wait to see how the next year goes. Hope to race next to you one day!
OK, I literally just watched your video when you talked extensively about you nutrition plan. Man, I feel for you. This is the 3rd video of yours that I've watched. Amazing honesty. Subscribed
Race results are like finical trading, you are successful over time. In the end you will get to were you want to be, you have a serious drive for success, loads of talent, and you inspire others.
Everybody has bad days...and your bad days are amazing days for everyone else. Don't forget that. You came back from a potential career ending injury in the least amount of time you could have. Then qualified for Kona in an impressive time at the last qualification race just six or seven weeks from Kona and tried to back it up with a top Kona performance. It was a bridge too far, but look what you did just to get there and then you helped impact the race and even then you still finished well despite some nutrition issues. Hats off Lionel. Give yourself some grace, keep working hard and its only small changes that will make you a champion there some day soon. Nathan
Thank you for your continued honesty and for sharing your journey. That’s why we love and continue to follow you. I’m the volunteer that wished you luck just before the swim as you were standing with your wife. As luck would have it, I caught your bike when you finished. Keep pounding, you’re a super athlete. My thoughts about your Kona experience is that the feelings and challenges you faced is EXACTLY what most of us age groupers go through every race. You are blessed with talent so keep honing and never give up. #nolimits.
A courageous battle. I was worried when you fell out of fourth that you bonked. Very glad you shared your story and that you're not calling it quits! Thanks much, Lionel. A fan.
Mad respect Lionel! You never quit. Thanks for being an inspiration to not only the young guys but us older guys too!!! You the man! Can't wait to see more!!!!
Lionel you had an extremely difficult time and still did an 8:25:45 at Kona. There is no failure only lessons to take into next year. Write everything down in a post race report and read it a month or two before next years race. After hearing this just very proud of you to pull through and finish. Excellent work. We love you man. 👍
How we deal with defeat - especially to ourselves - is so much more important than how we deal with victory. Everyone who follows you already believes that a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Thank you for sharing, Lionel - celebrate the gifts that you have and the adoration that your community has for you - it's a tremendous thing! Keep posting, inspiring, and running!
It's a journey. I'm merely an AG and I realize this. Not everyone's path is the same. We don't arrive at a place at the same time as others. He has to be true to himself. He is progressing in my opinion. To get everything right or early right at a venue like Kona is an accomplishment in its own right. He made a hydration error and was focused on getting to the front when the lead pack was biking " out of this world." He finished that race when plenty of his contemporaries dropped out. That takes guts. Much respect Mr. Sanders. The process is the prize, know this! The podiums will come and go. Go all out!!!!!
I've been watching everyone one of your videos since Kona 2018. Really appreciate your honest, candid review of your performance. Hats off to you for having one of your most efficient and effective swim legs to date (you've clearly learnt some key lessons in the water), a very decent bike and finishing the race. Really hope you put it all together next year.
At the start of my ironman journey, this is by far the most important information I have taken on board. Thank you for the detail and for being so candid.
Thanks for the videos and the inspiration to train for my first 70.3 (I made it despite no swimming history)! Ive enjoyed every step of the journey, and at the end of the day that’s what it’s all about, not the end goal 💪🏽 Cheers Lionel #NoLimits
You’re a strong man Lionel, not afraid of facing reality and sharing also weaknesses. We see you as a super human because we follow your training and preparation. But seeing you sharing your thoughts on mistakes, makes us respect you even more. This is very motivational, shows end of the day we are all humans and always learning. Thanks for another honest humble video. Cheers from a fan!
Just the fact that you finished is absolutely recommendable, most would have stepped out. Shows how tough you are. Thrilled that you are looking for some additional races to get some joy
Amazing work. I know you were disappointed but you’re vulnerability in sharing this story shows how much of a winner you are. Thank you so much for all that you do to inspire us. Keep up the great work mate!
Lionel, I just want to say thanks for keeping this shit real. It's been incredible following you through these years and I hope you keep posting these. You are an inspiration to many of us.
Way to stay tough lionel. Don't lose the mentality you've had the last year. We can all see it has been good for you. But don't forget the food!! You'll get it
Your one of my biggest motivators for training for my first Ironman please keep making these great videos I love keeping up with your life and watching your training. I can tell from your attitude that next year is 100% going to be your year you've got all the information and everything you need as well as a full year to carry it out.
Man you are a great warrior, we are suffering with you. Please get a coach!!! You need somebody that thinks for you, every human makes mistakes, this is why we need to have support
Go the path you have chosen to and learn from it - as pricey as those lessons are, they are invaluable. And, this sets you apart from the competition, different kind of warrior! Nice to see you in control of yourself, motivated and focused for the future. Keep it up, L !
Lionel, Dude! You just did a 8:25 IM world championship race! You are a certified super-hero in my books. (9xIM finisher here) You just ran into a juggernaut in Frodo, and learned a valuable lesson. So don't be hard on yourself. I know you will be back. Good luck!
LS is a world class warrior I can't imagine what he was going thru when he says he was miserable. You are still my idol, keep inspiring
Right! Seriously. His pain is a different level pain🏃♂️ You the man Lionel! Come to Cozumel for some redemption👍
- Are you having fun?
- No
- Me neither
Lionel, you get me everytime
I was probably checking my phone every hour for the past week to see if you uploaded a video. You are a true inspiration and a true warrior, thank you.
Likewise!!
same here
Same
Tru inspiration. I hope to see you at a 70.3 this year.. Stay classy my friend...
Same here
"Ive never performed well in a hot race" Got 2nd in Kona
Lionel: I enjoy watching your videos. You're tough and a hard worker.
But dude, get a coach and nutritionist. Get someone to drill it into your head. When you do brick workouts, you should be fuelling as if it were Kona. It has to be a habit. Just like checking your power meter or pool laps, eating and drinking just has to be a part of the workout.
I remember watching one of your videos about a month ago, where you got very detailed in weighing yourself and calculating your water loss during exercise. You also got detailed on how many carbs and electrolytes you needed. It sounded like you had it down really well. You knew how often to feed during the race, and how much buffer you had (not much; very fine line)
So many of your videos are talking about food. And all those Gatorade bottles? A tour of your pain cave with huge tubs of Gatorade. It's obvious you down Gatorade like it's going out of style...how does a guy that serious about hydration mess up during the biggest race of the year... Multiple times?!?!
So Kona 2019 happens, and your biggest mistake was misfuelling?
Not enough hydration during the ride? Missing water at an aid station? Finishing the ride confused with blurry vision?
Dude, you said it yourself: once you're thristy, it's too late. Once you're hungry, it's too late. You can't catch up on nutrition unless you slow down or stop for a while.
In another video, you said you never get hungry during a race. Like no food cravings.
I'm not a pro, and I'm not even fast, so people can say I've got no room to talk. But whatever. You train too hard to screw up on race day with something simple like bottles and gels.
You owe it to your family, friends and fans... And most of all, you owe it to yourself. Don't screw up the basics anymore.
Good luck, but drinking Gatorade and downing some gels should be the easiest part of every workout. Just do it.
@@endokrin7897 You seem to know so much, where did you place in Kona?
@@DC66DC Lionel has the hardest part down - the discipline. The coach and external help is not for discipline - that comes only from within. The coach is for the fine details, and it's clear that Lionel needs help with the fine details to get to the next level.
@@DC66DC if he has to be a triathlete to give advice on nutrition then we need to revoke a lot of nutritionists licenses
It is amazing how you quickly objectively assess where you are and move forward. You are an inspiration. Please keep the vlogs going on your journey. It helps so many people.
Saw you and Alistair running together as I was headed out to the Energy Lab. I had a similar situation regarding nutrition when the volunteers misplaced my special needs bag on the bike. It cost me 600 calories of my nutrition and I didn't adapt well to that. Honor to share the course with you. I have no doubt you'll come back stronger and faster.
The stuff you can’t control...volunteers misplacing a special needs bag....that’s extremely frustrating and it sucks that anyone has to deal with that EVER. It’s impossible to carry everything you need for a 140.6 supplemented by the bags in T1 and T2 while at the same time racing a personal best. Hopefully the right people will hear about things like your story (and other) and they can get their crap together next time.
still my #1 Triathlete
PLEASE get an experienced coach Lionel. That might be the last piece of the puzzle.
You have EVERYTHING else.
I watch these races solely to see you crush it. You deserve it, get an experienced coach.
Obviously not the impact you wanted to have but I appreciate you breaking down what happened.
Did my first half Ironman this year and overheated on the run and felt very similar to what you described.
Nice to know it’s a very preventable problem.
Also there is a very sweet camaraderie built from two people just suffering to make it through, loved that story.
That was gutsy. It was a long shot to get there and I really feel for you given how you made some errors with respect to nutrition. Please get a coach sooner than later. This will help with organizing priorities and not forgetting them - you will have more energy to train rather than burn cycles on mistakes and doubt. You are inspirational and it would be amazing to see you succeed the way you want to.
We are still with you!
You're still the BOSS Lionel. Respect.
Maybe idol. But BOSS?
Lionel is clearly a boss, with all the things he has experienced (personal problems). He has taken his life in his hands to become the best version of himself. He has a champion mind and a great physical condition. Certainly, he is not like Jan Frodeno who is undoubtedly THE boss of the long distances, but he runs in professional with the best athletes of the circuit and in Kona, which is the race dreamed by all the triathletes and one of the hardest. In addition, he has already won some races and came 2nd in Kona. So yes he is clearly a boss . Mr Sanders, hat off to you!
@@erickmAR92 there's no idols dude.
Lionel you're good boi! I don't think you realize how many people are positively impacted by you. Keep going man, we will always be here cheering for you. Now go play some golf.
Very true he has taught me more than any other pro.
Mas sera atleta de distancia longa ou só de 70.3?? A grande fraqueza continua a ser a corrida...não vi uma grande evolução...antes pelo contrário!! Caiu na tabela ao longo da corrida...
Mas não deixa de ser um lutador !! E isso motiva muita gente!!
It’s crazy how many of these comments are so single focused on a coach when Lionel addresses that in the video...he filled the void and it didn’t work out so the next step is to fill the void with someone who is a better fit. So many people here are keyboard warriors. I appreciate the honesty and raw self introspection that LS is willing to show to the world.
You can be a coach when you’re done racing. You don’t need to be one now.
Seems Lionel needs to remember three things but he can only ever remember two of them at one time. I look forward to next year when he tells us he nailed his nutrition but forgot to have an off season whilst racing 70.3s every 6 weeks.
Most pro athletes stop when there is no money in the race. You never quit. It's why I love to follow your channel. You are such a legend Lionel, and the way you let us in on your experiences, good and especially bad... Humbling. Fan for life buddy.
if there is one thing I am learning from watching your videos, its the nutrition. Its hard to believe how important it is to just drink water. Keep it man! you're an inspiration to all of us!!!
Sport nutrition, only water is not enough
Dude, nothing but respect. A big piece of moving forward, is realizing your deficiencies and adjusting your plan to makeup for them. Can’t wait to see how you do next year in Kona!
Remember that you had a GREAT effort coming off of a MAJOR injury, so CONGRATULATIONS on your finish. As I stated last year, I think you are a ROCKSTAR that I enjoy following. We have similar taste and need to share playlists. I really wish I could see you team up with one coach and see what happens vs self coaching. Best of luck and PLEASE consider trusting a coach you believe in and see what happens trusting a coach. Stay strong, stay positive and keep on truckin.
I just love his honesty and vulnerability. Starting to become one of my favorite athletes.
Thanks Lionel for being genuine with your fans and sharing your race. Nothing to be ashamed of. You are going to kill it 2020.
Get Dave Scott or Luc Van Lierde as your coach, same mentality and alot of experience. Start doing some track workouts and improve your running dynamics. So much to be gained not in terms of speed but in terms of efficiency and injury prevention.
You can do it, we know you can. Great inspiration
All the best Lionel on your next races. Considering everything you have gone through over the last 6 months, being part of the leading pack at T2 is very admirable.
Been following for a bit, and one part of your training that makes me cringe is your nutrition (pizza, cup noodles). Treat your body like a sacred temple and consume only the most natural and healthiest foods possible at all times. Your Gut will thank you for it.
Don't be so hard on yourself, you are an inspiration for so many out there. Thanks for that. You are still the boss, but even so, you have to be accountable to someone, please get a coach, really!
You’re still the MAN! Next year is yours!💪 Thanks for the update, I have been refreshing and searching UA-cam for a week!😂
Dude. You're the man. Your humility, your honesty and your candor are refreshing and real. We struggle, one day at a time. You motivate me and need to know you there are a lot of us following and believing in you. Thank you for all you do. Peace.
Lionel you're going to learn and come back stronger in 2020, it was a massive achievement to get to Kona this year on so little time. I think everybody knows that. Take time to chill go hit the golf course. I wish you all the very best for the three 70.3's your have planned. I have loved following your journey for the last few years and look forward to the celebration video from Kona win number 1 because it will come. !!!!!!!!!
He always strikes me as a real great and honest guy! Hope one day all will fall into place ;)
From what I saw from your past videos, you were able to get to where you're at with only a few months if not weeks of hard training. Removing the nutrition factor, I think you would've been up there in the top 5-ish so I think that's something encouraging to take in. You have the strength and ability, it's just finding the right diet/nutrition plan for race day. You're an inspiration to many. Keep up the hard work and looking forward to follow your progression !
Thanks for always keeping it honest, Lionel. That’s why you are our favorite among the pro field.
Keep your head up Lionel. You’re still a champ in my eyes.
I experienced something similar in my first full IM this year in Cork, Ireland. Exact opposite to Kona weather wise, TERRIBLE storm arrived the day of the race, swim cancelled but the rain and wind were BRUTAL. Was semi hypothermic getting off the bike.. it was THE MOST DIFFICULT HORRENDOUS day I ever put down, but Mike Reilly was at the finish line and despite nausea, dizziness, hypothermia I was crossing that finish line to hear him tell me I was an Ironman. Had to walk run the marathon after 18k and the only reason I ran was because I couldn’t cope with the cold when I walked. Following you guys also gave me massive motivation to dig deep as I get such inspiration from you all. It’s awesome to know you too get inspiration from all of us :)
Lionel...You are a champion and good to know you are Human! You'll figure it out and your fans like myself will always be behind you!
I love it when you win, and I will be over the moon when you win in Kona, but I don't follow you because of your victories. I watch every race you compete in, and all of your posts because you inspire me to NOT quit. Your contribution to this sport, and to so many aspiring triathletes far exceeds anything any podium could offer. Looking forward to more of it!!
You're a class act, Lionel, and a truly inspiring individual. You're still my hero, you'll get it next time!
brutal race, having someone to finish with has helped me so much before in training and races
Lionel, I ran my first marathon today. It wasn't the best time out there but it certainly was a huge step for me in terms of racing. You were one of my main sources of motivation and you inspire so many other people to just get out there and just start getting some running done. You may have let yourself down but you certainly haven't let your community down. And even if you had dropped out of the race after mile 7 we still would have been there to support you! Safety first. There's ups and downs in life, that's simply how it works and you know that for sure. Keep doing what you're doing. Keep moving forward. Thank you!
2018:
Ironman mont tremblant 2nd place to Cody Beals (nutritional issues)
Ironman Kona 33rd place (nutritional issues)
2019:
Ironman mont tremblant 2nd place to Cody Beals (nutritional issues)
Ironman Kona 20th place (nutritional issues)
Kona is a mystical place that both gives and takes. Watching your journey adds to the pageantry. There is no doubt you will be back because as you know, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. If you ever get to Oahu, give me shout. Love to train with you. Casey
Raw and inspiring. HUGE Thanks and much love from Germany!
You train and you learn, and you race and you learn. You’re a champion Lionel, see you back there next year better prepared and race ready! So impressive to see Pros like yourself getting to the finish line despite the pain, and having a bad race day sets a great example!
you learned more with your finish than you would after drop out at 7k in the run. you will be the man in the next years in kona. for sure 💪
Cmon Lionel, we're always with you! you are constantly learning something new, and this is awsomely positive!
You may not have won Lionel or performed the way you had wished. But you never fail to give it your all. Thats why we all love you. To see you running with Alistair and helping him through too was beautiful to see. No matter the result you are still a bloody legend. I always think 'what would lionel do' when im in a race or training session and the going gets tough. Keep smashing it bud, we love your work ✌#nolimits
Lionel reach out to Macca as an advisor or coach you both have similar personalities. He dialed his nutrition to win the race. This maybe the key. Love watching your journey!
Bear in mind Lionel, conditions change so if u calculate ur sweat rates for kona, u might have a hot day, a cold day, etc.
Thanks for running on, and walk jogging a 3:15 like a boss 😎🙌
Got Hawaii done,way to push Lionel! Your still The Man and the athlete that triathlon fans want to watch! Take a week or 2 off and then back on the horse! :)
Keep at it brother! Yours is the only pro channel I find myself keeping up with consistently.
My three young sons know your name and your motivating back story.
Don’t beat yourself up too much Lionel, regardless of the result you’re inspiring so many people to change their lives including mine.
This year I started out on my own journey to IRONMAN. So far I’ve lost 50 pounds and have been blogging it here on UA-cam.
Keep being you Lionel
Thanks for taking the time to do a recap. Be proud you finished considering all of the stuff you had to deal with. Everybody needs a coach... Phelps, Woods, James, your competitors all have one, there's a reason for that. Be pissed off. Pissed off for greatness! 2020 or bust.
You're a boss and a true inspiration Lionel! The only missing piece of the puzzle is getting a coach...
LS, you're my hero man! I can't wait to see what is in store for you in the future. You are the best triathlete in the universe!
Its good to see you're learning a lot from this Kona experience. I'm a Lionel supporter for life!
Don’t be so tough on yourself man. Jan and TO seemed to go into this race as no big deal. Maybe focusing on the mental game would help improve results (build habits of positive meditations, affirmations, and mantras). If you’re too stressed going in it probably affects the gut/nutrition.
Kudos on you
Wrong. Lionel is the toughest mentally. He was dehydrated. It’s imposdible to fight through. The issue is more not having a coach to direct and control all these factors.
Totally agree. Probably Lionel had to high expectations and so wasn't relaxed enough. Not relaxed organism won't absorb nutrition well (fuel basically) and it won't work to far. The same theory could be applied to Brownlee (to much expectation) and Sarah True (overheating in her case can also be a result of to much expectation from first qual try and then a stress of retrying and not succede in qualify). Look at Haug, Frodeno or O'Donnel. They simply calmly execute what they knew they were capable of. They were relaxed in their mind. Ofcourse they suffered physicaly like everybody but mental state is so so sooo important.
You guys are idiots. TO said he couldn’t sleep the night before and contemplated quitting and not racing.
"Disappointed but motivated". That is a good mentality. Keep up the hard work, Lionel. You have been an inspiration for a lot of people. Way to finish a hard race when your body was giving out. Look forward to seeing how you respond and learn from this.
Look fella, rookie error, you’ve called it out yourself. But this has been a recovery year, in so many ways. The reason we respect you, is your ability to self-learn, ruthlessly. 2020, get your head straight, it’s your year.
Dave Caldwell rookie error? It’s the same mistakes as last year. Guy needs a coach, people have been telling him this for ages
Love you, Lionel. Big fan. But what about getting a coach first, then decide if racing in 2 weeks is the right play? Your very best thinking has gotten you nowhere in the last two IMWCs. The guy that's been making all the training, racing, and nutrition calls for the last two+ years needs to be fired. His results are unacceptable. Hire a new coach now, before that other guys makes any more bad decisions.
This comment is awesome
You inspire us Lionel. Do what you have to do and you will get that title in Kona.
Ive been following you for a little over an year now and all this time you have been saying that you need a coach. Do it. You have all the qualities to win this and you will.
Lionel you are a true inspiration, seeing how emotional this disappointment is to you really shows how much this all matters to you. So much respect for sharing all this, Thank you and kill it next time.
Maslow’s Hierarchy, meet those physical needs before reaching for your goals. Be open to a full time coach that can support your dreams. We don’t always want to hear what they have to say, but at your level it becomes more of a team sport. Keep going Lionel, your dedication is inspiring. Thanks for sharing.
Lionel you're an inspiration to a lot of people here, and its great to see you humble yourself and recognize your opportunities. Can't wait to see how the next year goes. Hope to race next to you one day!
OK, I literally just watched your video when you talked extensively about you nutrition plan. Man, I feel for you.
This is the 3rd video of yours that I've watched. Amazing honesty. Subscribed
Race results are like finical trading, you are successful over time. In the end you will get to were you want to be, you have a serious drive for success, loads of talent, and you inspire others.
Everybody has bad days...and your bad days are amazing days for everyone else. Don't forget that. You came back from a potential career ending injury in the least amount of time you could have. Then qualified for Kona in an impressive time at the last qualification race just six or seven weeks from Kona and tried to back it up with a top Kona performance. It was a bridge too far, but look what you did just to get there and then you helped impact the race and even then you still finished well despite some nutrition issues. Hats off Lionel. Give yourself some grace, keep working hard and its only small changes that will make you a champion there some day soon.
Nathan
Thank you for your continued honesty and for sharing your journey. That’s why we love and continue to follow you. I’m the volunteer that wished you luck just before the swim as you were standing with your wife. As luck would have it, I caught your bike when you finished. Keep pounding, you’re a super athlete. My thoughts about your Kona experience is that the feelings and challenges you faced is EXACTLY what most of us age groupers go through every race. You are blessed with talent so keep honing and never give up. #nolimits.
A courageous battle. I was worried when you fell out of fourth that you bonked. Very glad you shared your story and that you're not calling it quits! Thanks much, Lionel. A fan.
be positive mate. A few months ago you were busted right up. What you have achieved even to get to kona is amazing. You should be happy!
Mad respect Lionel! You never quit. Thanks for being an inspiration to not only the young guys but us older guys too!!! You the man! Can't wait to see more!!!!
Lionel you had an extremely difficult time and still did an 8:25:45 at Kona. There is no failure only lessons to take into next year. Write everything down in a post race report and read it a month or two before next years race. After hearing this just very proud of you to pull through and finish. Excellent work. We love you man. 👍
How we deal with defeat - especially to ourselves - is so much more important than how we deal with victory. Everyone who follows you already believes that a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Thank you for sharing, Lionel - celebrate the gifts that you have and the adoration that your community has for you - it's a tremendous thing! Keep posting, inspiring, and running!
Lionel, you are a hero. A valiant warrior. And valiant warriors always prevail. Keep up the great fight. You are an example to follow. A hero.
It's a journey. I'm merely an AG and I realize this. Not everyone's path is the same. We don't arrive at a place at the same time as others. He has to be true to himself. He is progressing in my opinion. To get everything right or early right at a venue like Kona is an accomplishment in its own right. He made a hydration error and was focused on getting to the front when the lead pack was biking " out of this world." He finished that race when plenty of his contemporaries dropped out. That takes guts. Much respect Mr. Sanders. The process is the prize, know this! The podiums will come and go. Go all out!!!!!
I've been watching everyone one of your videos since Kona 2018. Really appreciate your honest, candid review of your performance. Hats off to you for having one of your most efficient and effective swim legs to date (you've clearly learnt some key lessons in the water), a very decent bike and finishing the race. Really hope you put it all together next year.
Failures are always bad but learning and coming back from it is so satisfying.
It's amazing that you even got there with your injury just a few months ago. You're a beast, you'll get 'em next year!
Maaaan. You are people champ! Thank you for your honesty. Don't give up. You are an inspiration to so many!
At the start of my ironman journey, this is by far the most important information I have taken on board. Thank you for the detail and for being so candid.
Thanks for the videos and the inspiration to train for my first 70.3 (I made it despite no swimming history)! Ive enjoyed every step of the journey, and at the end of the day that’s what it’s all about, not the end goal 💪🏽 Cheers Lionel #NoLimits
Rock the power of vulnerability.. One day at a time Lionel Sanders, one hour at a time. Best wishes.
You’re a Legend man!
You’ll come back stronger 👊
Onward & Upward !
Among your most powerful videos. Thank you
Half Kona on the edge of death and finishes 22, you are amazing man, best of luck
Happy you finished healthy! I bet nobody finished ahead of you that’s had a year like yours. Very good results. Proud for ya!
There are NO LIMITS. You're already back on the horse. I wish you the best in the next 3 races and say hi to El Volcan Villarica for me!!
You’re a strong man Lionel, not afraid of facing reality and sharing also weaknesses. We see you as a super human because we follow your training and preparation. But seeing you sharing your thoughts on mistakes, makes us respect you even more. This is very motivational, shows end of the day we are all humans and always learning. Thanks for another honest humble video. Cheers from a fan!
Just the fact that you finished is absolutely recommendable, most would have stepped out. Shows how tough you are. Thrilled that you are looking for some additional races to get some joy
we appreciate the real talk. you're an inspiration through it all.
Amazing work. I know you were disappointed but you’re vulnerability in sharing this story shows how much of a winner you are. Thank you so much for all that you do to inspire us. Keep up the great work mate!
Keep your head up LS! I follow you and no matter the outcome you've changed all our lives!!
So brutally honest as always. Thanks Lionel for your candor and opening your world to us.
We follow you from Cuba. You are a great inspiration. Love your way!!! Keep going and going strong!!!!
Lionel, I just want to say thanks for keeping this shit real. It's been incredible following you through these years and I hope you keep posting these. You are an inspiration to many of us.
Way to stay tough lionel. Don't lose the mentality you've had the last year. We can all see it has been good for you. But don't forget the food!! You'll get it
Your one of my biggest motivators for training for my first Ironman please keep making these great videos I love keeping up with your life and watching your training. I can tell from your attitude that next year is 100% going to be your year you've got all the information and everything you need as well as a full year to carry it out.
The suffering that you are able to endure is what will make you a champion some day very soon Lionel. A lot of people would have given up....some did.
Man you are a great warrior, we are suffering with you. Please get a coach!!! You need somebody that thinks for you, every human makes mistakes, this is why we need to have support
You'll be stronger after this experience. Go on Lionel !
Go the path you have chosen to and learn from it - as pricey as those lessons are, they are invaluable. And, this sets you apart from the competition, different kind of warrior! Nice to see you in control of yourself, motivated and focused for the future.
Keep it up, L !
Lionel, Dude! You just did a 8:25 IM world championship race! You are a certified super-hero in my books. (9xIM finisher here) You just ran into a juggernaut in Frodo, and learned a valuable lesson. So don't be hard on yourself. I know you will be back. Good luck!
We still love you Lionel, puking or not!! Keep the motivation high and inspiring us all! ✌👊
You're The Real Deal Lionel! Stay positive, you inspire me. #wedorecover