Search
shop

US triathlon superstar Sam Long gives ‘astounding’ nutrition debrief after BRUTAL T100 Singapore

The 'Big Unit' took on too much fuel on the bike, leading to bloating.
Last updated -
Get the ultimate guide to destination racing

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.

Advertisement

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.

Sam Long - T100 San Francisco 2024 bike
[Photo Credit – PTO]

“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.

Stuart Dick
Written by
Stuart Dick
Stuart is a graduate of the University of Sunderland with a masters' degree in Sports Journalism. He spends a lot of his time running and cycling around West Yorkshire, England.
Discover more
TRI247 podcast p/b Challenge Family episode 2
Go behind the scenes at Challenge Roth with the latest episode of the TRI247 podcast
Cadomotus Chronos triathlon cycling shoes
The triathlon cycling shoe that promises a 10-watt saving: Cadomotus Chronos Aero triathlon cycling shoes review
Challenge Family Roth
Five things you need to know about the Challenge Roth bike course
Challenge St. Pölten 2024 - image credit Jose Luis Hourcade / Challenge Family
Expert swim coach on the three most common swim mistakes age group triathletes make (and how to fix them!)
TRI-FIT VANGUARD tri suit review
The entry-level tri suit with a serious amount of performance for the price point – TRI-FIT VANGUARD review
latest News
Anne Haug wins Challenge Roth 2024 [Photo credit: Simon Fischer | Challenge Roth]
Anne Haug on inspiration ahead of comeback, sub-eight and no intention of retiring just yet
Caroline Pohle Ironman 70.3 Zell Am See 2024
CHAOS as Lena Meissner wins amazing sprint finish to become 70.3 European Champion and is then DEMOTED
Alistair Brownlee Nathan Edmondson Oxenhope Straw Race 2025
Olympic legend Alistair Brownlee dons Trump costume and downs pints in fundraising Oxenhope Straw Race
Sam Laidlow joy Challenge Roth win 2025
Challenge Roth hero Sam Laidlow thought he was in front for HOURS before taking lead
Sam Laidlow celebrates Challenge Roth win 2025
Challenge Roth 2025 men’s results: INCREDIBLE comeback win for Sam Laidlow
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...