eneko Llanos "I would not like triathlon to disappear from Vitoria after the World Cup"
Vitoria will be the venue for the long-distance triathlon World Championship at the end of July. The best specialists will go to the capital of Alava to compete in a test that will bring them money and recognition.
Among the handful of favorites is Eneko Llanos, who together with his brother Hektor has become the main person responsible for the fact that this demanding sport has gained numerous followers in the city in recent years. In the opinion of both, the celebration of the World Cup will contribute to giving Vitoria a prestige that should be maintained in subsequent years.
"I would not like the triathlon to disappear from Vitoria after the World Cup," says Eneko in an interview given with his brother to the championship's official website (www.triatlonvitoria.com). "Once this city is put on the map, it is important that there continues to be a reference test, that there is continuity." His brother Hektor wholeheartedly supports the idea. «It would be a way to establish a career in Vitoria and give it a future. "A good excuse for people to come to the city and also promote tourism."
La propuesta de los Llanos de que la capital alavesa entre en algún calendar internacional de carreras de triatlón no es una iniciativa aislada. Los organizadores del Mundial barruntan tal posibilidad, aunque es demasiado pronto aún para que la iniciativa se sustancie en algo concreto.
In any case, July 29 will be a big day for Vitoria and also for Eneko, who is preparing the event thoroughly. «I want to give the best of myself. If I have a good race I can be first, second or tenth. I am prepared for whatever has to come. "As an athlete you assume that you can't always win." Hektor defends his brother's position to the death, as it could not be otherwise. «If Eneko does not win or is not in the top three, it is not a failure.
We are very well used to it, but we must assume that in a World Cup the best are there, that the average level is very high and that on a good day anyone can win. Winning or losing is part of sport.
"Protect me from euphoria"
Holding the race in your city has advantages and disadvantages for Eneko Llanos. You know the route, you don't have to travel to the other end of the world to adapt to schedules or meals and you will feel the support of the people. But, on the other side of the scale, you find the pressure and responsibility to do well in front of your people. «I try to protect myself a little from so much euphoria. My goal is to win, but don't let anyone think it will be easy. It is a high-level competition and the demands will be great. "I try to handle that pressure well and I appreciate people's trust because that also motivates me."
Hektor feels "somewhat sad" because he will not be able to compete in the elite category. However, he is happy that it is celebrated in Vitoria "because of the people who organize it, who have had many years of experience."
Source: elcorreo.com
