Nalini meets Sandra Mai Rhofer

Sandra, how did this incredible adventure in the XTERRA world begin? 

My adventure in the Xterra world began in Greece in 2018. A friend of mine told me about this absolutely fabulous circuit of Cross Triathlon races. After that, I went with him to Greece for my first X Terra race. Right from the beginning, I was impressed by the organization of the race and the awesome courses they create! 

What is the secret to combining different disciplines such as swimming, cycling and running?

The secret is to love what you are doing. To be passionate about all 3 sports, to be in love with being outside, traveling, training, pushing hard, sticking to your plan and trying to be the best version of yourself ;-) 

 How many hours do you train a week and how are the sessions set up?

 I am not just a triathlete but also a teacher working full time at high school so my schedule depends also on my working hours. Although I try to build a good aerobic base during winter, which means more hours of training with less intensity, and in summer when the race season starts with more specific sessions and more intensity. So the hours I train depend a lot on the time of the season I am in, but I would say that I train an average of 15 hours a week. 

What is the biggest emotion you have experienced since you became a professional?

This season was rich in emotions. It was the best year I have ever had. I'll bring with me so many fond memories shared with friends and family. One of the biggest emotions was surely winning the Xterra European Champs. It came all together, it was an overwhelming feeling when during the racing all the pieces of the puzzles came together, I was just so focused and flying to the finish line. 

Some other great memories I have are when my family and friends came to watch me racing! It was in Molveno Italy where I got away with another win and all my family was there at the finish line cheering me on. Winning in front of the home crowd is always special. 

 Next goal?

Podium at Mauii the World Champs of Xterra!

What are your feelings when you wear the Nalini body in the race?