My Thoughts After the 2019 Ironman World Championship

[@BakuPL]

- Are you having fun? - No - Me neither Lionel, you get me everytime

[@timob12]

LS is a world class warrior I can't imagine what he was going thru when he says he was miserable. You are still my idol, keep inspiring

[@jessejamesjohnston]

Right! Seriously. His pain is a different level pain🏃‍♂️ You the man Lionel! Come to Cozumel for some redemption👍

[@islanderITA]

I was probably checking my phone every hour for the past week to see if you uploaded a video. You are a true inspiration and a true warrior, thank you.

[@stuartshine7823]

Likewise!!

[@mikexhotmail]

same here

[@triciakelly3929]

Same

[@triciakelly3929]

Tru inspiration. I hope to see you at a 70.3 this year.. Stay classy my friend...

[@martinanders4236]

Same here

[@mariemeyer6852]

It is amazing how you quickly objectively assess where you are and move forward. You are an inspiration. Please keep the vlogs going on your journey. It helps so many people.

[@RyanHumiston]

Obviously not the impact you wanted to have but I appreciate you breaking down what happened. Did my first half Ironman this year and overheated on the run and felt very similar to what you described. Nice to know it’s a very preventable problem. Also there is a very sweet camaraderie built from two people just suffering to make it through, loved that story.

[@CoachMattPowered]

"Ive never performed well in a hot race" Got 2nd in Kona

[@endokrin7897]

Lionel: I enjoy watching your videos. You're tough and a hard worker. But dude, get a coach and nutritionist. Get someone to drill it into your head. When you do brick workouts, you should be fuelling as if it were Kona. It has to be a habit. Just like checking your power meter or pool laps, eating and drinking just has to be a part of the workout. I remember watching one of your videos about a month ago, where you got very detailed in weighing yourself and calculating your water loss during exercise. You also got detailed on how many carbs and electrolytes you needed. It sounded like you had it down really well. You knew how often to feed during the race, and how much buffer you had (not much; very fine line) So many of your videos are talking about food. And all those Gatorade bottles? A tour of your pain cave with huge tubs of Gatorade. It's obvious you down Gatorade like it's going out of style...how does a guy that serious about hydration mess up during the biggest race of the year... Multiple times?!?! So Kona 2019 happens, and your biggest mistake was misfuelling? Not enough hydration during the ride? Missing water at an aid station? Finishing the ride confused with blurry vision? Dude, you said it yourself: once you're thristy, it's too late. Once you're hungry, it's too late. You can't catch up on nutrition unless you slow down or stop for a while. In another video, you said you never get hungry during a race. Like no food cravings. I'm not a pro, and I'm not even fast, so people can say I've got no room to talk. But whatever. You train too hard to screw up on race day with something simple like bottles and gels. You owe it to your family, friends and fans... And most of all, you owe it to yourself. Don't screw up the basics anymore. Good luck, but drinking Gatorade and downing some gels should be the easiest part of every workout. Just do it.

[@DC66DC]

@@endokrin7897 You seem to know so much, where did you place in Kona?

[@shikharmukherji1236]

@@DC66DC Lionel has the hardest part down - the discipline. The coach and external help is not for discipline - that comes only from within. The coach is for the fine details, and it's clear that Lionel needs help with the fine details to get to the next level.

[@Tickman45]

@@DC66DC if he has to be a triathlete to give advice on nutrition then we need to revoke a lot of nutritionists licenses

[@AllKinaTing]

still my #1 Triathlete PLEASE get an experienced coach Lionel. That might be the last piece of the puzzle. You have EVERYTHING else. I watch these races solely to see you crush it. You deserve it, get an experienced coach.

[@triingatgolf]

Saw you and Alistair running together as I was headed out to the Energy Lab. I had a similar situation regarding nutrition when the volunteers misplaced my special needs bag on the bike. It cost me 600 calories of my nutrition and I didn't adapt well to that. Honor to share the course with you. I have no doubt you'll come back stronger and faster.

[@quengmingmeow]

The stuff you can’t control...volunteers misplacing a special needs bag....that’s extremely frustrating and it sucks that anyone has to deal with that EVER. It’s impossible to carry everything you need for a 140.6 supplemented by the bags in T1 and T2 while at the same time racing a personal best. Hopefully the right people will hear about things like your story (and other) and they can get their crap together next time.

[@brookeac]

It’s crazy how many of these comments are so single focused on a coach when Lionel addresses that in the video...he filled the void and it didn’t work out so the next step is to fill the void with someone who is a better fit. So many people here are keyboard warriors. I appreciate the honesty and raw self introspection that LS is willing to show to the world.

[@tennvtxr]

Remember that you had a GREAT effort coming off of a MAJOR injury, so CONGRATULATIONS on your finish. As I stated last year, I think you are a ROCKSTAR that I enjoy following. We have similar taste and need to share playlists. I really wish I could see you team up with one coach and see what happens vs self coaching. Best of luck and PLEASE consider trusting a coach you believe in and see what happens trusting a coach. Stay strong, stay positive and keep on truckin.

[@P34rlJ4mm3r]

That was gutsy. It was a long shot to get there and I really feel for you given how you made some errors with respect to nutrition. Please get a coach sooner than later. This will help with organizing priorities and not forgetting them - you will have more energy to train rather than burn cycles on mistakes and doubt. You are inspirational and it would be amazing to see you succeed the way you want to. We are still with you!

[@moizinho_gab]

Lionel you're good boi! I don't think you realize how many people are positively impacted by you. Keep going man, we will always be here cheering for you. Now go play some golf.

[@rogerc23]

Very true he has taught me more than any other pro.

[@jorgec870]

Mas sera atleta de distancia longa ou só de 70.3?? A grande fraqueza continua a ser a corrida...não vi uma grande evolução...antes pelo contrário!! Caiu na tabela ao longo da corrida...

[@jorgec870]

Mas não deixa de ser um lutador !! E isso motiva muita gente!!

[@nicholasgauthier7751]

From what I saw from your past videos, you were able to get to where you're at with only a few months if not weeks of hard training. Removing the nutrition factor, I think you would've been up there in the top 5-ish so I think that's something encouraging to take in. You have the strength and ability, it's just finding the right diet/nutrition plan for race day. You're an inspiration to many. Keep up the hard work and looking forward to follow your progression !

[@barclarke1000]

Dude. You're the man. Your humility, your honesty and your candor are refreshing and real. We struggle, one day at a time. You motivate me and need to know you there are a lot of us following and believing in you. Thank you for all you do. Peace.

[@TriathlonDan]

You're still the BOSS Lionel. Respect.

[@erickmAR92]

Maybe idol. But BOSS?

[@thibault8862]

Lionel is clearly a boss, with all the things he has experienced (personal problems). He has taken his life in his hands to become the best version of himself. He has a champion mind and a great physical condition. Certainly, he is not like Jan Frodeno who is undoubtedly THE boss of the long distances, but he runs in professional with the best athletes of the circuit and in Kona, which is the race dreamed by all the triathletes and one of the hardest. In addition, he has already won some races and came 2nd in Kona. So yes he is clearly a boss . Mr Sanders, hat off to you!

[@nadsim154]

@@erickmAR92 there's no idols dude.

[@xtroytubex]

I love it when you win, and I will be over the moon when you win in Kona, but I don't follow you because of your victories. I watch every race you compete in, and all of your posts because you inspire me to NOT quit. Your contribution to this sport, and to so many aspiring triathletes far exceeds anything any podium could offer. Looking forward to more of it!!

[@Bumblakla]

Thanks Lionel for being genuine with your fans and sharing your race. Nothing to be ashamed of. You are going to kill it 2020.

[@pedrodiaz4343]

Dude, nothing but respect. A big piece of moving forward, is realizing your deficiencies and adjusting your plan to makeup for them. Can’t wait to see how you do next year in Kona!

[@Sergio-ks7hy]

Don't be so hard on yourself, you are an inspiration for so many out there. Thanks for that. You are still the boss, but even so, you have to be accountable to someone, please get a coach, really!

[@Dmcsquared68]

Thank you for your continued honesty and for sharing your journey. That’s why we love and continue to follow you. I’m the volunteer that wished you luck just before the swim as you were standing with your wife. As luck would have it, I caught your bike when you finished. Keep pounding, you’re a super athlete. My thoughts about your Kona experience is that the feelings and challenges you faced is EXACTLY what most of us age groupers go through every race. You are blessed with talent so keep honing and never give up. #nolimits.

[@MrDasKlopapier]

Lionel, I ran my first marathon today. It wasn't the best time out there but it certainly was a huge step for me in terms of racing. You were one of my main sources of motivation and you inspire so many other people to just get out there and just start getting some running done. You may have let yourself down but you certainly haven't let your community down. And even if you had dropped out of the race after mile 7 we still would have been there to support you! Safety first. There's ups and downs in life, that's simply how it works and you know that for sure. Keep doing what you're doing. Keep moving forward. Thank you!

[@kevinryan9843]

Keep at it brother! Yours is the only pro channel I find myself keeping up with consistently. My three young sons know your name and your motivating back story.

[@courtneypiperking9819]

You're a class act, Lionel, and a truly inspiring individual. You're still my hero, you'll get it next time!

[@bhawa81]

Raw and inspiring. HUGE Thanks and much love from Germany!

[@davidmurray3685]

Most pro athletes stop when there is no money in the race. You never quit. It's why I love to follow your channel. You are such a legend Lionel, and the way you let us in on your experiences, good and especially bad... Humbling. Fan for life buddy.

[@MDTmanProductions]

I've been watching everyone one of your videos since Kona 2018. Really appreciate your honest, candid review of your performance. Hats off to you for having one of your most efficient and effective swim legs to date (you've clearly learnt some key lessons in the water), a very decent bike and finishing the race. Really hope you put it all together next year.

[@PHpengkhianatnegara]

[@jakeguello6814]

if there is one thing I am learning from watching your videos, its the nutrition. Its hard to believe how important it is to just drink water. Keep it man! you're an inspiration to all of us!!!

[@markankone9362]

Sport nutrition, only water is not enough

[@genesequence]

How we deal with defeat - especially to ourselves - is so much more important than how we deal with victory. Everyone who follows you already believes that a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Thank you for sharing, Lionel - celebrate the gifts that you have and the adoration that your community has for you - it's a tremendous thing! Keep posting, inspiring, and running!

[@michaelmueller2949]

"Disappointed but motivated". That is a good mentality. Keep up the hard work, Lionel. You have been an inspiration for a lot of people. Way to finish a hard race when your body was giving out. Look forward to seeing how you respond and learn from this.

[@arrankeady]

You train and you learn, and you race and you learn. You’re a champion Lionel, see you back there next year better prepared and race ready! So impressive to see Pros like yourself getting to the finish line despite the pain, and having a bad race day sets a great example!

[@Nikkyo11]

Cmon Lionel, we're always with you! you are constantly learning something new, and this is awsomely positive!

[@juliano0moreira]

You’re a strong man Lionel, not afraid of facing reality and sharing also weaknesses. We see you as a super human because we follow your training and preparation. But seeing you sharing your thoughts on mistakes, makes us respect you even more. This is very motivational, shows end of the day we are all humans and always learning. Thanks for another honest humble video. Cheers from a fan!

[@ryanking1460]

Mad respect Lionel! You never quit. Thanks for being an inspiration to not only the young guys but us older guys too!!! You the man! Can't wait to see more!!!!

[@mikegogl]

You inspire us Lionel. Do what you have to do and you will get that title in Kona. Ive been following you for a little over an year now and all this time you have been saying that you need a coach. Do it. You have all the qualities to win this and you will.

[@92point5]

OK, I literally just watched your video when you talked extensively about you nutrition plan. Man, I feel for you. This is the 3rd video of yours that I've watched. Amazing honesty. Subscribed

[@FranciscoTAvalos]

Lionel...You are a champion and good to know you are Human! You'll figure it out and your fans like myself will always be behind you!

[@MR-wh5wp]

You may not have won Lionel or performed the way you had wished. But you never fail to give it your all. Thats why we all love you. To see you running with Alistair and helping him through too was beautiful to see. No matter the result you are still a bloody legend. I always think 'what would lionel do' when im in a race or training session and the going gets tough. Keep smashing it bud, we love your work ✌#nolimits

[@rogerc23]

You can be a coach when you’re done racing. You don’t need to be one now.

[@caseyfitzpatrick5024]

Kona is a mystical place that both gives and takes. Watching your journey adds to the pageantry. There is no doubt you will be back because as you know, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. If you ever get to Oahu, give me shout. Love to train with you. Casey

[@Steven-ko6ky]

LS, you're my hero man! I can't wait to see what is in store for you in the future. You are the best triathlete in the universe! Its good to see you're learning a lot from this Kona experience. I'm a Lionel supporter for life!

[@hobokenobi6431]

Thanks for always keeping it honest, Lionel. That’s why you are our favorite among the pro field.

[@jh52photos]

You’re as real as they come Lionel. I never miss a video because I know I’m going to see a real, honest, frank assessment of where you are relative to goals. Truly inspiring for me as as a relative noob (at nearly 50 years old). Go enjoy the rest of the season, play some golf, and then take us on another amazing journey as you take on 2020. Thanks Lionel. You’re a one-of-a-kind, good good man.

[@jannekoskinen2050]

You’re still the MAN! Next year is yours!💪 Thanks for the update, I have been refreshing and searching KZbin for a week!😂

[@cameroncampbell5447]

Lionel you're an inspiration to a lot of people here, and its great to see you humble yourself and recognize your opportunities. Can't wait to see how the next year goes. Hope to race next to you one day!

[@plants4thewin]

I just love his honesty and vulnerability. Starting to become one of my favorite athletes.

[@djjazzydean]

All the best Lionel on your next races. Considering everything you have gone through over the last 6 months, being part of the leading pack at T2 is very admirable. Been following for a bit, and one part of your training that makes me cringe is your nutrition (pizza, cup noodles). Treat your body like a sacred temple and consume only the most natural and healthiest foods possible at all times. Your Gut will thank you for it.

[@padeksewenejt1032]

Maaaan. You are people champ! Thank you for your honesty. Don't give up. You are an inspiration to so many!

[@Evertreynold]

A courageous battle. I was worried when you fell out of fourth that you bonked. Very glad you shared your story and that you're not calling it quits! Thanks much, Lionel. A fan.

[@cameronschiavone9744]

Thanks for being so inspiring Lionel, watching your videos make my day! Watching you on the Facebook live stream for Kona had me on edge all day, as I was rooting so hard for you! Wishing nothing but the best for you and the rest of your season!

[@rowanbowtie2730]

Your one of my biggest motivators for training for my first Ironman please keep making these great videos I love keeping up with your life and watching your training. I can tell from your attitude that next year is 100% going to be your year you've got all the information and everything you need as well as a full year to carry it out.

[@udcram]

He always strikes me as a real great and honest guy! Hope one day all will fall into place ;)

[@cmcgeejr]

Among your most powerful videos. Thank you

[@MilanSmore]

Lionel you are a true inspiration, seeing how emotional this disappointment is to you really shows how much this all matters to you. So much respect for sharing all this, Thank you and kill it next time.

[@carlosthejackal7847]

Lionel you're going to learn and come back stronger in 2020, it was a massive achievement to get to Kona this year on so little time. I think everybody knows that. Take time to chill go hit the golf course. I wish you all the very best for the three 70.3's your have planned. I have loved following your journey for the last few years and look forward to the celebration video from Kona win number 1 because it will come. !!!!!!!!!

[@RobinVanhove]

You're a boss and a true inspiration Lionel! The only missing piece of the puzzle is getting a coach...

[@SergeyMkrtchyan]

Lionel, I just want to say thanks for keeping this shit real. It's been incredible following you through these years and I hope you keep posting these. You are an inspiration to many of us.

[@geoffwhite3664]

Lionel, Dude! You just did a 8:25 IM world championship race! You are a certified super-hero in my books. (9xIM finisher here) You just ran into a juggernaut in Frodo, and learned a valuable lesson. So don't be hard on yourself. I know you will be back. Good luck!

[@mynameisdewek]

Keep your head up Lionel. You’re still a champ in my eyes.

[@joelklingenberg3271]

Your effort, your honesty, and your character is an inspiration! Thank you for putting yourself out there in these videos!

[@joshuacordova7899]

Keep your head up LS! I follow you and no matter the outcome you've changed all our lives!!

[@spiroyouakim690]

Lionel, you are a hero. A valiant warrior. And valiant warriors always prevail. Keep up the great fight. You are an example to follow. A hero.

[@janssosa3695]

We follow you from Cuba. You are a great inspiration. Love your way!!! Keep going and going strong!!!!

[@jjrne6]

Got Hawaii done,way to push Lionel! Your still The Man and the athlete that triathlon fans want to watch! Take a week or 2 off and then back on the horse! :)

[@kristykittle2289]

Maslow’s Hierarchy, meet those physical needs before reaching for your goals. Be open to a full time coach that can support your dreams. We don’t always want to hear what they have to say, but at your level it becomes more of a team sport. Keep going Lionel, your dedication is inspiring. Thanks for sharing.

[@steeveaddkins3755]

You're The Real Deal Lionel! Stay positive, you inspire me. #wedorecover

[@ethanmcnary9119]

brutal race, having someone to finish with has helped me so much before in training and races

[@MTarver1]

At the start of my ironman journey, this is by far the most important information I have taken on board. Thank you for the detail and for being so candid.

[@sineadtwomey5553]

I experienced something similar in my first full IM this year in Cork, Ireland. Exact opposite to Kona weather wise, TERRIBLE storm arrived the day of the race, swim cancelled but the rain and wind were BRUTAL. Was semi hypothermic getting off the bike.. it was THE MOST DIFFICULT HORRENDOUS day I ever put down, but Mike Reilly was at the finish line and despite nausea, dizziness, hypothermia I was crossing that finish line to hear him tell me I was an Ironman. Had to walk run the marathon after 18k and the only reason I ran was because I couldn’t cope with the cold when I walked. Following you guys also gave me massive motivation to dig deep as I get such inspiration from you all. It’s awesome to know you too get inspiration from all of us :)

[@ericneve1990]

Get Dave Scott or Luc Van Lierde as your coach, same mentality and alot of experience. Start doing some track workouts and improve your running dynamics. So much to be gained not in terms of speed but in terms of efficiency and injury prevention. You can do it, we know you can. Great inspiration

[@rogerc23]

Lionel you had an extremely difficult time and still did an 8:25:45 at Kona. There is no failure only lessons to take into next year. Write everything down in a post race report and read it a month or two before next years race. After hearing this just very proud of you to pull through and finish. Excellent work. We love you man. 👍

[@aneczka2114]

Alot of respect to be honest and share your experience with the race with us!

[@wafflebutt1]

I followed you and a few others during the race. You are an inspiration to many people mainly because you’re a talented triathlete but also because of your honesty, openness and humility. Keep working at it, get yourself professional technical support and I’m sure you will see the results. Great videos by the way.

[@noelduarte9533]

Bold, Honest, and ready for the next one, I was waiting for you to tell us about your experience and man... proud of you Lionel, keep up the good work and from Ottawa, we are inspired by what you do man!

[@navaxemmanuel4410]

Don’t give up your journey! Your a true inspiration to a lot of people. Probably one of the most talked about athletes in Ironman. More so than Jan or Sebi or any of the top guys. This should help accelerate your training to the next level. This is your time to take your training to a level where it’s never been. And when your faced with this challenge next year, you win without any pain. “But those who suffer he delivers in their suffering; he speaks to them in their affliction.” ‭‭Job‬ ‭36:15‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Let your pain be your motivation, not your downfall!

[@manueldiazcallejero3349]

Thanks for sharing Lionel, soooo inspiring. This kind of honest talk makes you even a better athlete. RESPECT.

[@TheGhostrider126]

Great video. Great motivation... I just wish I was a younger fitter version of myself to utilize your knowledge and your motivation. At 43 yrs old and 240lbs I’m just now getting into cycling mainly to help my health and fitness, but oh how I admire all of you triathletes. Thanks

[@Theoriginalbubbafett]

Happy you finished healthy! I bet nobody finished ahead of you that’s had a year like yours. Very good results. Proud for ya!

[@Tom10]

Go the path you have chosen to and learn from it - as pricey as those lessons are, they are invaluable. And, this sets you apart from the competition, different kind of warrior! Nice to see you in control of yourself, motivated and focused for the future. Keep it up, L !

[@erichflessner4475]

Awesome video. Seriously inspiring stuff. Always love the transparency & honesty.

[@moonc234]

Amazing work. I know you were disappointed but you’re vulnerability in sharing this story shows how much of a winner you are. Thank you so much for all that you do to inspire us. Keep up the great work mate!

[@trevor905]

Way to battle through all the pain! Don't be too hard on yourself. You'll learn from this and improve. You're a huge inspiration to many! Keep up the good work.

[@keomo]

Li, thank you so much for sharing your deep thoughts about all of this. You are a true inspiration for a lot of us. I'm so proud of all you do. Kev from Qc!

[@christianparker7987]

You’re insane, a true inspiration! I’m running collegiately right now and me watching your videos makes me want to be the age to train for my first Ironman!

[@SyzGoss]

The video we've been waiting for!...... You're a true inspiration, Lionel, and your openness and honesty is admirable! You're going to come back stronger than ever, and considering the year you've had, your performance at Kona was nothing short of incredible! Can't wait to see you're progress and see you smash it on the Big Island next year!!

[@marcelveldhuizen125]

Just the fact that you finished is absolutely recommendable, most would have stepped out. Shows how tough you are. Thrilled that you are looking for some additional races to get some joy

[@pheidippides7364]

Lionel reach out to Macca as an advisor or coach you both have similar personalities. He dialed his nutrition to win the race. This maybe the key. Love watching your journey!

[@GladiatorFightWear1]

So much respect. Thank you for sharing the bad with the good. It is great to hear the analysis and breakdown, gives me a lot to consider going in to my first ironman in May.

[@DG-jq7il]

What an awesome video. Thank you so much for sharing this. We all forget nutrition, but your perseverance is very inspiring

[@fysh1945]

Thanks for taking the time to do a recap. Be proud you finished considering all of the stuff you had to deal with. Everybody needs a coach... Phelps, Woods, James, your competitors all have one, there's a reason for that. Be pissed off. Pissed off for greatness! 2020 or bust.

[@MS-fi1mg]

you learned more with your finish than you would after drop out at 7k in the run. you will be the man in the next years in kona. for sure 💪

[@fgtheamateur]

There are NO LIMITS. You're already back on the horse. I wish you the best in the next 3 races and say hi to El Volcan Villarica for me!!

[@mauriciomultisport]

you are my inspiration, and as a fan i can tell you that everything you do Is amazing, i've been following your trainings , and i really believed that you were going to be on a podium this year , however we all know that sometimes shit happens , and i am very proud of what you did ,you endure every single mile of that marathon , and it really surprise me because big names like patrick lange didn't even get to t2 . sending you positive vibes and hoping that i will see you smash all of your races to come sorry for my bad english , greetings from puebla México

[@davidmariot6578]

What a role model! Very impressed by the honesty to yourself. Great reflection and lessons learned. I really hope you stick to these learnings throughout next season. Would love to see you succeed more due to these changes. Thanks so much for the inspiration!

[@markdowns4854]

be positive mate. A few months ago you were busted right up. What you have achieved even to get to kona is amazing. You should be happy!

[@ejsimpson8270]

I have been waiting for this video. Thanks for being so open and honest. Never give up Lionel!

[@krisjaynav]

we appreciate the real talk. you're an inspiration through it all.

[@richardpate1897]

So brutally honest as always. Thanks Lionel for your candor and opening your world to us.

[@fishywishy4145]

Thanks for upload Lionel! Waiting for this. Was very curious to hear your thoughts after the race. We love you Lionel. Good luck in ur future races!

[@distantlight4527]

You're a hero bro. For the efforts and for the honesty. You'll put it together.