This podcast clip features Kurt Madden discussing his participation in the 2023 Ironman World Championships in Nice, and his preparation leading up to it with races in Texas (4th AG), Honu Half IM (1st AG) and Cour d’ Alene (2nd AG). The conversation centers around Kurt changing his fueling to incorporate Vespa and the difference it made.  Like most people new to Vespa, Kurt was highly skeptical of the product initially and even held off using the samples OFM Coach Mike McKovitch had given him until he relented to Mike’s constant reminders to use the product. 

Whether you're a seasoned triathlete like Kurt or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable takeaways to elevate your performance, eliminate Bonking or GI issues and recover like you never thought possible (as Kurt points out). 

Talking Points

Kurt Madden's Triathlon Journey:

• Returned to triathlon in 2014 after focusing on trail running.

• Became a top age grouper and started coaching triathletes.

• Lead Coach for TriDot, coaching athletes and mentoring/collaborating with TriDot coaches globally.

• First Winner of  Ultraman in 1983 and 8th Overall in 2019 at the age of 64 and was inducted into the Ultraman Hall of Fame in 2019.

• Over 40 years of endurance sports experience.

Current Competitions and Races:

• Still competing, including participating in the 2023 Ironman World Championships in Nice, finishing 12th overall in his age group despite racing conservatively due to medical issues.

• Preparing for multiple races this year (2024), including Texas, several 70.3s and the IronMan World Championships in Kona.

• Enjoys racing for the camaraderie and challenge, stating it elevates his performance.

Experience with VESPA and Fat Metabolism Optimization:

• Introduced to VESPA by bike fitter and OFM Coach Mike McKovitch

• Initially skeptical but, at Mike’s insistence, eventually tried the product as Mike recommended and was blown away.

• Significantly reduced caloric intake during races while improving performance and recovery.

• Notable performance improvements, including a successful race rehearsal before Texas with only 400 calories intake, and feeling great post-race.

• Discussions with Peter Defty about metabolic fitness and personalized fat metabolism strategies.

Race Performance and Achievements:

• Ahead of predicted race times by 38 minutes and placing 4th AG at his first race with a competitive field at IM Texas in 2023.

• Kurt prefers to peak in the second half of the year when competition is tougher.

• How Vespa allows him to be competitive despite an aggressive racing and training schedule.

• Continuous improvement and fine-tuning of performance strategies using VESPA.

Training and Recovery Insights:

• The amazing recovery Vespa supports like wanting to and being able to run the day after an Ironman.

• How Vespa makes a critical difference in adapting to heat and humidity by reducing the need for a lot of exogenous calories by utilizing fat metabolism and a trickle of simple sugars while focusing on hydration.

• Observes better overall performance and faster recovery by optimizing fat metabolism.

If you are wondering how you can reduce GI problems, eliminate bonking and improve your recovery, Kurt’s experience Vespa after 40 years as an endurance athlete will help you realize that there is a better way out there to approach your nutrition and fueling. That is by tapping into your unlimited onboard energy and physiology which Vespa supports and enhances. 

Find out more about Vespa here.

If you’re still not sure about Vespa, check out this FREE offer to give Vespa a try, just like Kurt!