Derron reflects on race of her life, three days after the closing ceremony
Swiss triathlete Julie Derron experienced the race of her life in August. Now, three days after the closing ceremony of the biggest event for athletes, she can reflect on what she achieved. “I am incredibly proud of my performance,” she says.
Photography: Kirsten Stenzel Maurer
Derron competed in both individual and team disciplines. However, the first event will forever be etched in her memories. She says she was able to deliver her best performance to date. Derron: “In addition to that, I was controlling the race at the front during both the bike and run segments for a long time. I also enjoyed the atmosphere; the crowds were amazing and made it a very special event.”
Especially on the challenging bike course, after a strong swim, the Swiss triathlete seemed to be completely in control. While competitors were literally crashing out of the front group one by one, Derron led the race on multiple occasions and set the pace, laying the foundation for her excellent result.
Her experience from riding since she was little was the key to feeling comfortable on the city’s cobblestones, Derron reflected afterward. “I was not too worried about crashing myself but more mindful of my positioning in the pack so I would not get caught up in a crash. That’s because I am quite used to riding in wet conditions.”
After a smooth transition into the run, Derron continued to dictate the pace for most of the running segment. However, towards the final stretches of the event, she could feel herself getting tired. “I could not cope with the change of pace that another athlete inflicted at that moment. I told myself to stay strong and fight until the finish, as I was still very much in the mix. I reminded myself that it is only over at the finish line, so you just have to go for it until the end. But it definitely felt like I was sprinting for the last 1.5 kilometers.”
Derron continues: “It was very emotional to see my family and coach right there at the finish line. After a media marathon post-race, we had a very nice celebration where I could enjoy a glass of champagne and have a nice dinner with family, friends, and the whole team.”
“However, I could not celebrate excessively as the mixed team relay still had to take place. The celebrations aren’t over yet, though; there will be more festivities now that I am back in Switzerland. But I must admit that life goes on, and I am already looking forward to what comes next. That being said, this performance and result bring a lot of joy.”
Derron still has many goals as a professional triathlete, she says. “There are a lot of races that I would like to try, to discover what my true potential is. I have not decided on my racing schedule yet. However, I am motivated to keep racing this year and to make the most of this great form that I currently have.”
