With a nickname like the ‘Big Unit’, and competing in the energy-sapping world of endurance triathlon, nutrition is always a key focus for Sam Long – or any triathlete for that matter.
The 29-year-old has provided a nutritional debrief on his Instagram channel following his eighth-place finish at the T100 World Tour event in Singapore at the weekend.
The American was cut well adrift of the field on the swim, finishing 5:36 behind race leader Vincent Luis exiting the water. Sam was unable to bridge the gap to eventual winner Hayden Wilde in brutal heat on the bike and run, but he did make some inroads to secure 14 points in the season opener.
Following the race, in the spectacular heat and humidity of Singapore, Mr “Yo Yo Yo” detailed the nutritional needs required to perform at such a high level.
Astounding carb intake
“Nutrition Debrief From Singapore,” Long posted on Instagram.
“With a 3:15 PM start I opted for a double breakfast; 1 at 7 am and one at 10 am. Breakfast 1 was 3 eggs and lots of toast and breakfast 2 was a few pieces of toast.
“At noon I had Powerbar Apple sauce packets x4 and a granola bar.
“Now the race: In 60’ pre race I had one satchel of 90G black line mix, a green apple gel, and energy drink. Then on bike I had an ASTOUNDING 310g of carbs in 1h50 minutes over 3.5 Liters (all black line mix) + 200mg caffeine tube.
Too much for Long
“But the truth is it was too much… when I started the run I was a bit bloated and hadn’t digested all of it. I spent the first lap and a half of the run with a stomach cramp. As everyone cheered me on to go faster – it was impossible until it cleared.
“On the run I had 1 2x 1/2 of a gel and lots of water (30g total).”
It seems the ‘Big Unit’, like counterpart Jelle Geens, was suffering from stomach issues out on course which caused issues for him on the run.
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