AGFL Triathlon Episode 128: Clay Emge

In this Age Grouper for Life Podcast, Colin interviews Clay Emge from the Every Man Jack triathlon team. Clay is a 40-year old triathlete from Tyler, Texas who works as a financial advisor and has four young kids. He and Colin discuss their similar backgrounds in swimming and running, as well as their experience with triathlon over the past 16+ years. It’s been quite the journey for Clay and looking forward to following his future endeavors, including a trip to Nice for the Ironman World Championship in 2025. Thanks for joining the podcast, Clay! --- Show Notes- Clay's professional triathlon career @ 3:31 Clay shares that he raced as a professional triathlete for a few years, including qualifying for and competing in Kona. However, after an injury and with the uncertainty of becoming a father, he transitioned back to age-group racing in 2015. He found more success as an age-grouper, including a 2nd place finish at Kona in 2018, before returning to pro racing for a couple more years. Motivations and the inclusive nature of triathlon @ 14:06 Clay discusses what keeps him motivated in the sport, highlighting the relationships and community he's built through triathlon. He shares a story about how watching the midnight finishers at Ironman Texas inspired his wife to take up the sport. Clay emphasizes the inclusive and inspiring nature of triathlon. Training and balancing family life @ 16:40 Clay explains how he structures his training around his busy family life, prioritizing early morning workouts before his kids wake up. He discusses the importance of discipline and making sacrifices to maintain a high level of fitness. Clay also shares insights on the mental challenges of taking time off due to injury. Cycling training and Zwift @ 35:00 Clay details his approach to cycling training, including a focus on power-based workouts on Zwift, as well as group rides on his TT bike. He discusses the benefits of Zwift for structured workouts and mental engagement. Reflections and advice @ 47:18 Clay provides advice and reflections for fellow age-group triathletes, emphasizing the importance of keeping the sport fun, building a supportive community, and not getting too caught up in strict goals and metrics. He encourages athletes to appreciate the ups and downs of the journey. Upcoming races and the World Championship in Nice @ 58:31 Clay shares his race plans, including Galveston 70.3 and the Ironman World Championship in Nice, France. He discusses his excitement and strategy for the hilly Nice course, as well as the strong European competition he expects to face.