Search
shop

Sam Long reveals the big news – ‘Little Unit’ is on the way!

Triathletes Sam Long and Lara Gruden have announced they are expecting their first child.
News Director
Last updated -
Get the ultimate guide to destination racing

Big news had been expected from Sam Long‘s latest YouTube video.

The American star had hinted he was poised to unveil his new coach in succession to longtime ally Ryan Bolton after they parted ways at the end of last year.

But when the update appeared this weekend there was a far more significant announcement.

Advertisement

Nice surprise

For the ‘Big Unit’ revealed he and girlfriend Lara Gruden are expecting their first child – or, as they put it, ‘a lil’ unit’.

Sharing it in nice style (watch below to find out how), he even managed to stay on brand as he said: “Whether it’s a boy or a girl, they’re going to be rocking pink.”

Fellow pro triathlete Gruden also posted on Instagram: “A new adventure begins with our addition of two little feet to our family. What a beautiful blessing. ❤️”

Congrats to them from all at TRI247.

It means Long will soon be joining Canada’s Lionel Sanders, another triathlete with a high profile on YouTube, as a new father.

Speaking about the upcoming months, Long said: “Obviously give Lara encouragement along with the journey of the pregnancy. It’s really given me another edge to be there to support her and the baby and to be the ultimate team. I can only have compassion and try to be there for her as much as I can. We’re looking forward to a huge year.”

Jonathan Turner
Written by
Jonathan Turner
Jonathan Turner is News Director for both TRI247 and RUN247, and is accustomed to big-name interviews, breaking news stories and providing unrivalled coverage for endurance sports.  
Discover more
Challenge Family Jort Vlam CEO
“It’s not just for nutty people who train 40 hours a week!” Jort Vlam on taking triathlon mainstream and why he’s still inspired to keep growing the sport
Chain hanging to dry after waxing
PremiumSwitching to a waxed chain could take minutes off your Ironman bike split, without riding any harder – and here’s why
PremiumAre women better than men at long distances? We uncover the truth once and for all
Castelli Aero Pro 8S women's cycling jersey
Castelli Aero Pro 8S cycling jersey review: can this ultra-aero jersey turn watts into speed without dialling down on comfort?
Sian Rainsley Vitus
PremiumThreshold or VO2 max? The best type of intervals for triathletes who want to get faster
latest News
Lucy Charles Barclay T100 London celebrations 2025
T100 win confirms the numbers – and now Lucy Charles-Barclay sets sights on Kona and more
Alex Yee London Marathon 2025
Alex Yee sets stunning new PB for 5,000m at international meet in Belgium
Hayden Wilde finish line T100 London 2025
‘He’s a superfreak’ – Jan Frodeno hails INCREDIBLE Hayden Wilde comeback
Hayden Wilde wins T100 London 2025
T100 London men’s results 2025: Hayden Wilde wins in one of the GREATEST EVER sporting comebacks
Lucy Charles Barclay wins T100 London 2025
T100 London women’s results 2025: FAIRYTALE win for Lucy Charles-Barclay in front of home fans
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

TRI247-LOGO_Primary-Black_RGB-1

CHOOSE YOUR MEMBERSHIP TO BECOME PART OF SOMETHING EPIC

We’re on a mission to elevate the world of endurance sport, becoming your go-to resource for expert training tips and inspiration, unbiased reporting and creating a platform for grassroots voices. But we can’t do it without you on board! Choose a TRI247+ membership option below and become part of something epic.

All plans include a 7-day free trial

£7.95/month

Unlimited access. No ads. A whole library of tips, advice and inspiration at your finger tips, and the chance to shape the future of triathlon journalism.

100+ new articles/month

You’ll also gain access to our other premium websites:

Have an account? Sign in

All plans include a 7-day free trial

£47.95/year
£95.40/year

50% Discount

100+ new articles/month

Unlimited access. No ads. A whole library of tips, advice and inspiration at your finger tips, and the chance to shape the future of triathlon journalism.

You’ll also gain access to our other premium websites:

Have an account? Sign in

Share to...