Luca Brecel, the former world champion in snooker, is making some unconventional moves as he sets his sights on competing in the Ironman triathlon in 2028. Brecel, who claimed the World Snooker Championship title in 2023, has been juggling his snooker commitments with intense Ironman training on the Spanish island of Mallorca.
Despite his busy schedule, Brecel managed to secure a win in the Northern Ireland Open after arriving just in time for his first-round match. He then flew back to Northern Ireland for his next game, where he suffered a defeat to Pang Junxu. The Ironman triathlon is known for its gruelling nature, consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile cycle ride, and a 26.2-mile run.
Brecel expressed his seriousness about this new challenge, stating that he is focusing on cycling and running for the next two years before incorporating swimming into his training regimen. He also mentioned the possibility of seeking coaching assistance from Belgian Ironman World Champion Frederik van Lierde to help him prepare effectively.
While some may question his decision to prioritize Ironman training over snooker practice, Brecel emphasized the importance of training in a conducive environment like Majorca. He highlighted the need to adapt his training routine to maintain peak performance and expressed his willingness to embrace the challenge of potentially participating in Qualifying School if necessary to retain his Tour card.
Despite recent setbacks in snooker competitions, Brecel remains confident in his abilities and is determined to translate his practice success into match victories. He sees any potential challenges, such as participating in Qualifying School, as opportunities to grow and improve as a player.
As Brecel heads back to Majorca to continue his Ironman training, his dedication and ambition serve as a testament to his relentless pursuit of success in both snooker and triathlon. His unique approach to balancing two demanding sports showcases his versatility and determination to push himself to new heights in pursuit of his goals.