I´m Matt Trautman a South African proffesional triathlete. A former yacht racing skipper, I started the sport of triathlon late in life at the age of 27. I raced for a years as an age group triathlete and then turned pro. I have since gon on to 20 Half and Full Distance professional race wins. 

• 5 x Ironman 70.3 South Africa Champion
• European long-distance champion at Challenge Almere in 2019 in course record time
• Overcoming multiple level spinal fusion in 2017 after getting hit by a car and retuning to top level racing

How did you start cycling / triathlon?: I started in 2012 after watching the London Olympic triathlon and looking for a new challenge. 

Why do you continue with triathlon now?: There are still goals that I´ve yet to achieve and I don´t feel I´ve reached my full potential.

What was the most important race you´ve done to date?: 70.3 South Africa 2018 - The comeback race. One year after the bike accident and my spinal injury.

What is your pre-race ritual?: Write some reminders on my hand to enjoy the experience and of my support at home.

What do you think about while cycling?: Best days are when you´re in the zone focusing on the effort and not thinking about much.

What is your go-to training meal?: Peanut Butter Sandwich.

How do you recover after a tough cycling?: I used to sleep, now I have a toddler haha.

What song is your go-to for the cycling?: Most Imagine Dragons songs.

Who is your favor cycling "team"?: I don´t really have a favorite team; I just enjoy the spectacle. 

Apart from endurance sports, what is your passion?: Being on, in or near the sea.

What was the best piece of cycling advice you ever received?: Grip it and rip it.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?: Learn what works best for you as an individual.

Why ROTOR?: They make the best oval chainrings.

What´s your favorite ROTOR component and why?: Q-Rings because they make me ride more efficiently.