Capgemini Utretch Triathlon

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The Capgemini Engineering Utrecht Triathlon: Adventures in Tri-ing and Managing T1 Diabetes

Welcome or Welcome Back to my adventures!
This time I will bring you in my details to face a Triathlon!

If you do not know me a little intro:


I’m Eleonora, born in 1995 in the beautiful city of Turin, Italy. With a background in molecular biotechnology and a master’s in oncology from Vrije University of Amsterdam, I’ve dedicated my life to understanding and improving human wellbeing. I work as a consultant engineer in Pharma Amsterdam and I channel my passion for sports as a Swim Director for the Amsterdam Triathlon and Cycling Club. Living with type 1 diabetes since 1999, when I was three, and you know what, I've embraced it as a unique strength that fuels my dedication to triathlons and my quest for optimal health! My journey has led me to become a certified nutritionist and life coach, always striving to inspire and support others in their diabetes management and overall health journey.


My Mission

Diabetes is a full-time challenge, but with the right mindset and lifestyle, it can be managed effectively. My mission is to provide genuine insights and practical guidance to those living with diabetes, enhancing understanding and promoting a healthy lifestyle. By sharing my personal experiences, strategies, and the tools I've developed, I aim to inspire others to take control of their health. Combining cognitive behavioral therapies with medical treatments, my goal is to shift the focus from just insulin and glucose levels to a comprehensive approach that includes nutrition, exercise, and mental wellbeing. Together, we can create a supportive community where everyone can thrive despite the challenges of diabetes.

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Today’s the Day!

On June 30, 2024, I had the thrill of participating in the Capgemini Engineering Utrecht Triathlon with my fantastic Capgemini team. Being part of a company that values sport and well-being is something I truly cherish. Plus, as a member of the Capgemini Engineering Cycling and Running Club, this event was a big deal for me! Capgemini this year chose me to be the "face" of the event and i am super proud to be on their social media to inspire and share my story!


The Early Bird (and the Insulin Doses)

The day began with the early morning hustle of catching a train to the starting location in Amsterdam. Now, if you think waking up early is hard, try planning your breakfast and insulin doses at the crack of dawn! At 6 AM, I took 1 unit of insulin and had some plain protein for breakfast. My strategy was to integrate if necessary before the start rather than over eat and create possible hyperglycemia events.

Just to add a little more challenge, my period were about to arrive. It was the last day of my luteal cycle, meaning my insulin resistance was at its peak and my glucose levels were running high. My body felt exhausted, but I was determined to push through.


The VIP Treatment (and the Temptation)

Capgemini Engineering, the main sponsor of the triathlon, had set up a VIP tent stocked with delicious food and drinks. Sadly, my high glucose levels meant I had to steer clear of those tempting treats. But that didn’t dampen my excitement; I was eager to start the race!

\And We’re Off – The Swim

We kicked off with a mass start in the lake. If you’ve ever been in a mass start, you know it’s a bit of a contact sport. True to form, I got punched in the face. Ouch! But I shook it off and kept swimming. I was the second woman getting out of the water and getting out of the water second felt like a victory in itself.


The Transition Zone – Glucose Check

After the swim, I dashed to the transition area and immediately checked my glucose levels. Good news: it hadn’t dropped! I quickly grabbed my bike and set off on the next leg of the race. My bike has always my glucose monitor and some insulin and glucagon in a bike bag. I am prepared for any case of emergency.


The Bike Ride – Windy and Wild

Cycling through a beautiful forest was a dream, though the wind made it quite a challenge. Halfway through, my glucose levels dipped, so I took a Gluc Up gel (thanks to a marathon runner’s recommendation). While biking, I had the chance to support a fellow participant who needed some encouragement. We cycled together for a few kilometers, sharing energy and motivation. Helping others gives me a boost, especially when I’ve still got some energy left to spare!


The Run – Hot, Hot, Hot!

The run was the toughest part, thanks to the scorching heat. I made sure to drink water at every aid station. The volunteers and spectators were amazing, constantly checking if we were okay. One volunteer suggested I find some shade to cool down when I looked overheated, and it was the best advice ever. My glucose remained stable during the run, and for the heat my glucose monitor started giving me some less reliable data, therefore I had to only trust my feelings.


Crossing the Finish Line

Crossing the finish line was pure joy. But the real highlight came later when the girl I helped during the bike ride found me on Instagram. She thanked me for being the energy she needed to finish the triathlon. Moments like these remind me why I love participating in these events.


Conclusion

Despite the challenges of managing Type 1 diabetes and the physical demands of a triathlon, the Capgemini Engineering Utrecht Triathlon was an unforgettable experience. I’m grateful to be part of a team that supports and values our well-being. Stay tuned for more stories and successes on my blog. Thank you to everyone who made this event possible and to those who supported me along the way. Together, we can achieve greatness!

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What to prepare for a Triathlon??

  • Gluc Up gels in the bike (strapped on the bike frame)
  • Gluc up gels in the Trisuit
  • Glucagon spry always with you

Before the Race

  • Measure the blood finger glucose before the swim
  • Usually for adrenaline the glucose spikes up, do not correct and do not over eat before the start.
  • Trust the strategy you have practiced

Post Race

  • Measure the blood finger after the race
  • The blood glucose could be high but be careful to not over correct

MUST DO

  • Emergency contact always wrote down on your bib number
  • Inform the organization about Diabetes
  • Never attempt a distance you never practiced before
  • Never eat for the first time protein bars and shake
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All the graphs of my blood sugar and training is on the GlucoFit Instagram page in the stories :)

To know more about my challenges and my day to day diabetes management on Instagram 


#Triathlon #TeamCapgemini #WellBeing #Sport #DiabetesAwareness #CapgeminiEngineering #CyclingClub #RunningClub


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