Search
shop

Tokyo Olympian says “iconic triathlon course” at Paris Olympic Games a privilege for the sport

Kenji Nener explains why Paris is so iconic and what he's doing to prepare for one of the biggest races of the year.
Staff Reporter
Last updated -
STRENGTH. ENDURANCE. PERFORMANCE.

Having experienced the magic of a home Olympic Games, albeit under the restrictions of Covid-19 measures, Kenji Nener could be forgiven for not having the same level of excitement for the pinnacle of the current Olympiad.

However, speaking with TRI247 as he finalises his preparations for the next crucial stage of the qualification period, the Asian Games champion said that he expects the event in Paris to be incredible.

Having finished 14th in Tokyo three years ago, the 30-year-old Perth-born pro will be one to watch if he makes the start line, but revealed the first step is to secure selection to a highly competitive Japanese team.

Advertisement

“Paris is going to be amazing”

Reflecting on the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Nener said it was an experience like no other, but added that he has high expectations for this year’s event in one of the world’s most iconic cities.

Kenji Nener at the 2023 Asian Games.
[Photo Credit – World Triathlon]

“A home Olympics is a dream for any athlete, and I was lucky to experience it as my first Olympics. Fortunately for triathlon, despite COVID-19, there were many people cheering along the road-side which gave me a lot of strength. 

“Life in the Athlete Village was difficult because of COVID-19 but the Japanese organisers did a great job under the circumstances.

“Of course, Paris, is going to be amazing. I couldn’t name a more iconic triathlon course, truly a privilege. Though admittedly I am yet to tick off the selection criteria.”

To meet that selection criteria, Nener has a busy schedule in the coming months, with each race a stepping stone to the ultimate goal in Paris.

“My season will start with Abu Dhabi WTCS followed by Hong Kong World Cup, Asian Championships and Yokohama WTCS.

“My race planning will not change drastically from normal, but the training blocks will always have specificity around delivering the best result in Paris; training will not necessarily be catered for the specifics of the upcoming race.”

“Belief in my ability” key for Olympic success

Asked what it will take to close the gap to the best in the sport having finished last season in WTCS #15, Nener said it was all about belief.

“Belief in my ability.Not being afraid to rest when needed, especially when tapering for races and implementing more focus on running.”

Specifically for race day in Paris, Nener said to get the result he wants, he needs a mix of confidence and faith, with a good swim-bike combo key.

“[It will take] confidence on the start line. A good swim, preferably a small gap off of the bike (in the front group of 15 or so) and trusting my run ability.”

Tomos Land
Written by
Tomos Land
Tomos Land is a triathlon & running journalist whose expertise lies in the professional world of short course & long distance triathlon, though he also boasts an extensive knowledge of ultra-running.
Discover more
Dave Ellis / Luke Pollard - World Para Triathlon Championships Pontevedra 2023
Golden opportunity – British Triathlon launches search for LA2028 paratriathlon guides
IRONMAN Lanzarote 2024 - Anne Haug on run course
Best marathon shoes for Ironman – the ‘legal’ super shoes you CAN wear to level up your run split
Challenge Sanremo 2024 - Photo: Jose Luis Hourcade
How to fuel your triathlon training: Expert nutritionist tips to help you nail every session
swim start IRONMAN World Championship Kona 2024 photo credit Tony Svensson IRONMAN
Level up your Ironman swim split – must-read tips from an expert swim coach
Ironman gear guide – everything you need to get to the finish line of a full distance triathlon
latest News
Taylor Knibb 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship Taupo New Zealand
US triathlon phenom Taylor Knibb hails great rival Kat Matthews for record-breaking IRONMAN Texas win
Richard Varga Jonny Brownlee Arzachena
Triathlon legend Jonny Brownlee reveals ‘Last Dance’ motivation behind latest challenge
IRONMAN Kona 2022 Age Group Results
How will “re-imagined” IRONMAN World Championship at Kona actually look for Age Groupers?
Lucy Charles-Barclay IRONMAN World Championship Kona 2023 Finish
IRONMAN World Championship goes ALL IN on Kona again with men and women to race on same day from 2026
Laura Philipp and Kat Matthews on the run at the 2024 IRONMAN World Championship
Nice gets consolation prize of 70.3 Worlds after IRONMAN World Championships return to Kona
triathlon on your terms
Never miss out with our triathlon alerts & digest. Get a dose of adventure & inspiration with Boundless.
The 247 Group

The home of endurance sports

Share to...