Javier Gómez Noya retires from professional triathlon
This day will be recorded in the history of triathlon and Spanish sport, since Javier Gómez Noya, affectionately known as “The Captain”, has announced his retirement from professional triathlon.
The announcement comes after its victory in the Olympic distance of the Santander City Triathlon on September 22. A film-like ending for an athlete who has marked an era in the world of triathlon.
Gomez Noya, considered the most successful triathlete in the history of this discipline, She made her mark for years, winning multiple titles including five ITU World Championships in the Olympic distance, medals in various competitions and, of course, her memorable Olympic silver at London 2012.
Statements by Javier Gómez Noya
"After 26 years of racing triathlons I want to let everyone know that I am retiring as a professional athlete at the end of this season.
Although it is never an easy decision, I know it is the right one. I love our sport and I love training every day, but my body has been struggling to deal with the amount of load it takes to be competitive at the highest level.
My body has been pushed to its limits for many years and I have had a career that I could never have imagined in my wildest dreams but I think it is time to take a step back. I will continue to do this amazing sport but with a little less intensity and stress.
I hope to do one or two more races before the end of the season, but not at the highest level. I am super grateful for the opportunity that the PTO I decided to compete in the T100 this year and I tried my best to be at my highest level for these events.
But the reality is that I wasn't able to do it, for one reason or another. I got sick just before Miami, my mother passed away when I was already in Singapore, among other injuries that didn't allow me to run in London or perform well in San Francisco... I gave it my all, but it just didn't work out, so it's time to take a step back and take things easier.
Thank you all for the support throughout these years, it's been a wild ride!
This is not a goodbye, as I am sure I will see you all around, my journey will continue to be linked to triathlon.. "
Its beginnings
The Javier Gómez Noya It began in his childhood in Basel, although his family moved to Spain, where he immersed himself in the world of triathlon.
As he grew older, his talent became evident, leading him to his first major victory at the ITU Triathlon World Championship in 2008. Since then, his career has been marked by a series of achievements that have established him as a symbol of self-improvement and dedication in the sport.
His career is full of memorable battles, such as the intense rivalries he maintained with iconic figures such as Alistair Brownlee, especially remembered that summer day in 2012. As far as his legacy is concerned, Javier Gómez Noya has competed in a total of 132 competitions, finishing on the podium in 84 of them, resulting in an impressive total of 46 World Triathlon event wins.
In addition, he is the first triathlete to compete in all formats, from Olympic distance to HOMBRE DE HIERRO, and has been a key figure in promoting triathlon globally.
His record of achievements is remarkable and includes titles such as the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in 2014 and 2017, the ITU Duathlon World Championship in 2012, and the XTERRA World Championship in 2012.
The news of his retirement has shocked the triathlon world. However, Gómez Noya will not be leaving the sport he loves so much.
From Triathlon News we wish you the best in your new stage.
