Endurance Talent Foundation

After nearly two years of setbacks, illness, and injury, Emma Boertjes has made a triumphant return to the international stage. The 30-year-old Dutch doctor and aspiring elite triathlete clinched a silver medal in the 30–34 age group and secured third place overall among non-professional women at the 2025 World Duathlon Championships in Alsdorf.

A Dream Revived
Emma’s journey back to competition has been anything but smooth. In the summer of 2023, she fell seriously ill, forcing her to pause her athletic pursuits. The illness was followed by a series of injuries, delaying her return to training until the autumn of 2024. Determined to chase her dream of becoming an elite triathlete, Emma resumed racing at the beginning of 2025.

Dominance on the Bike
The duathlon in Alsdorf featured a grueling format: a 10 km run, a 60 km bike ride, and another 10 km run. Emma executed her race plan flawlessly during the first run, setting a strong pace. However, it was on the bike—her favorite discipline—where she truly shined. With a blistering bike split of 1:28:24, she overtook numerous competitors, propelling herself to the front of the field.

Battling Through Adversity
Despite experiencing stomach pain during the second run, Emma displayed remarkable resilience. She pushed through the discomfort, ultimately finishing the race in 2 hours and 52 minutes. Her performance earned her a silver medal in her age group and a third-place finish overall among non-professionals—a result she had only dreamed of during her recovery.

Eyes on the National Championship
Buoyed by her success in Alsdorf, Emma is now setting her sights on the Dutch National Championship Middle Distance Triathlon in Nieuwkoop, scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2025. This event, which returns to Nieuwkoop after a hiatus due to environmental concerns, will serve as a crucial stepping stone in Emma’s journey toward elite competition.

The Flying Doctor Soars Again
Emma Boertjes’ story is one of perseverance, passion, and the unyielding pursuit of a dream. Balancing her demanding career as a doctor with the rigors of elite-level training, she embodies the spirit of determination. Her remarkable comeback in Alsdorf signals not just a return to form but a bold statement: The Flying Doctor is back—and she’s aiming higher than ever. Go Emma, go!

For 2024, The IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, was the ultimate goal for Dylan. Countless hours of training and races, just to prepare for this brutal challenge. Here’s the race report, written by Dylan!

“It took a while to put pen to paper about the Kona recap post. The result in Kona was a bitter pill to swallow. I went in with good fitness and an ambitious race plan. I executed the plan close to perfect on the swim & bike but crumbled in the run due to cramps. Dropping all the way from first place to 26th place 🫠

I was disappointed for a couple of days, but after some reflection I can be nothing but proud about the way I raced in Kona!

My race          

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The swim

It went well! I lost some feet at 750m and had to go balls out for 5min to close the gap but after that comfortably swam in a fast group. Unfortunately, around 3k in, I got a jelly fish to the face, luckily I could spit it out before it became a saltwaterjellycocktail.  I did get a foot cramp as a result. But after some breast/back stroke I could swim again and swam the remaining 800m comfortably. Still happy with my swimtime under the 58 minutes and a top 30 in my AG!

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The Bike 🤩

I got on the bike and figured I’d do the initial 10k technical part  by race ‘feeling’ knowing that I could win time here. Once on the Queen K I glanced at my power and saw 300NP for the first 20minutes. It felt easy! It was a good sign and I settled in getting aero and rolling through the lava fields passing some small groups every couple of minutes.

My heartrate settled to the desired range (146-151) very quickly and I felt fantastic! At around 50k, right before the descent to the gas station, there was a big draft pack with about 20 guys sitting in, definitely not at 12m 🤷‍♂️ I passed them in the descent and put in a small surge to get a gap and then pushed on towards Havi. Between Havi & T2 I picked up the AG18-24 & AG25-29 leaders and pulled them along for the remaining 85km, the times I looked back they appeared at a legal 12m distance. It would’ve been great if they took some turns up front but unfortunately that was not the case. But hey, that’s racing..!

Over the bike ride I had drank just shy of 11L with 440g carbs and a ton of sodium. But still with 20km to go I started to feel a bit dehydrated and warm so slowed the pace. Power dropped a bit & core temp started to climb… but I still felt comfortable and was stoked to enter T1 as first AGer 🤩

Time: 4:23:15

Fastest in AG 🤙

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On to the run:

I was confident in my run. The plan was to start out easy and not worry about people passing me, having the confidence that I could run a steady marathon and pick them up in the second half 😶‍🌫️

That was not the case lol. Already on Ali’i Drive I wasn’t feeling the way I should have. I focussed on cooling and drinking as best I could. My legs felt good, but cramps in my diaphragm and eventually also my stomach made it impossible to run faster than a shuffle 🫠 I gritted my teeth and pushed as best I could towards the finish. The Energy Lab and Queen K lived up to their brutal reputation and spat me out a broken man on Palani road.

Run 3hr49🪓

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I’m glad I chose to race this way. Playing it safe might have given a better result in this case but that’s not the way I want to race, and that’s not the way I think I can deliver my best race performance! When you race to win you have to be prepared to lose 🤷‍♂️

Finishing time 9hr18

26th in AG25-29

Big changes are coming for 2025! Stay tuned 😉

Another first-place finish in his age group and three out of three AG wins this season—these are the headlines that grab attention. But the reality behind Dylan Thissen’s performance at the Ironman Czech Republic 70.3 in Hradec Králové tells a different story. Despite a triumphant outcome, this race proved to be one of the most challenging he has faced, with very little going according to plan.

The Swim: A Wetsuit Malfunction

The swim leg began well enough for Dylan, but 750 meters in, disaster struck—his Zone3 wetsuit spontaneously ripped in the armpit area. Suddenly, he was dragging what felt like a parachute through the water for the remaining 1100 meters. This was particularly frustrating because he had purchased the wetsuit new this season and had checked it thoroughly for any signs of wear and tear before the race. Despite this setback, Dylan managed to clock a swim time of 27:00, which was a small victory in an otherwise tough race.

The Bike: Not His Usual Kick

The bike leg, usually Dylan’s strongest discipline, didn’t go as planned either. He couldn’t find his usual power and kick. However, by sitting very aero and pacing himself well on the climbs and descents, he managed a bike split of 2:01 with a Normalized Power (NP) of 313 watts. This effort earned him the 1st AG bike split and the 11th pro bike split, which isn’t bad, but based on his training, he knew he could do better. Improving in this area will be a focus as he prepares for his next race.

The Run: A Slog from Start to Finish

The run was undoubtedly the most difficult part of the race for Dylan. From the moment he hit the pavement, he battled intense diaphragm cramps that made it impossible to run or breathe normally. Every step felt like a struggle, and instead of powering through the course, he found himself just trying to survive. His final run time of 1:29 reflects the sheer effort it took to keep moving forward.

Overall: A Time to Reflect and Learn

Despite all the challenges, Dylan crossed the finish line with a total time of 4:04:18, taking 1st place in the AG 25-29 and 3rd age grouper overall. It’s a result he is proud of, but also one that leaves much to ponder. There’s always room for improvement, and Dylan plans to reflect on what went wrong so he can come back stronger. However, he won’t dwell on it for too long—his next race, the Duisburg 70.3 on September 1st, is just around the corner, and he is ready to put these lessons into practice.

A Positive Note: The Race Itself

On a positive note, Dylan wants to highlight that the Ironman 70.3 in Hradec Králové was a fantastic race overall. The swim and bike courses were fast and fun, and the run course, while challenging, offered some great twists and turns through the city center. It’s a race he would highly recommend to anyone looking for a blend of speed and challenge in a beautiful setting.

In the end, it’s not just about podium finishes—it’s about learning, growing, and coming back stronger. Dylan looks forward to the next race with renewed determination.

After Duisburg, the full focus will be on the main goal for 2024: The IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, on October 26, 2024.

For now: good luck in Duisburg Dylan!

Preparing for 2024 IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii

Dylan, a determined triathlete with his sights set on the prestigious IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, has embarked on an epic journey of preparation and perseverance. Last year, he earned his ticket to Kona after qualifying at the IRONMAN in Barcelona. Now, as the countdown to October 2024 begins, Dylan shares insights into his rigorous training regimen and upcoming challenges.

Long, cold, rainy rides

We caught up with Dylan to discuss his preparation for the monumental race. “I wanted to push myself harder than ever before,” Dylan explains. “That’s why I started ramping up my training load last autumn. Endurance rides in the rain and wind, lasting up to 14 hours, became a regular part of my routine. It wasn’t easy, especially with the temptation to cozy up indoors with a bag of chips and Netflix.”

With such intense training demands, it’s no surprise that Dylan encountered hurdles along the way. “Balancing a 20 to 25-hour training week with a full-time job and coaching commitments was tough,” Dylan admits. “I even fell ill at one point and had to take a step back. Thankfully, a planned training camp in Spain provided a much-needed opportunity to recharge and refocus.”

First race of 2024 coming up!

Looking ahead, Dylan remains laser-focused on his goal of peak performance in Kona. “Every aspect of my training is geared towards that one race,” he asserts. “Together with my coach, I’ve devised a meticulous plan to ensure I’m at my best come race day.” Currently, Dylan is in France, preparing to tackle ‘The Frenchman,’ a grueling long-distance triathlon featuring formidable competition from top French athletes.

Rest & Race

But Dylan’s journey doesn’t end there. “After ‘The Frenchman,’ I’ll take a well-deserved break before scaling back my work commitments to prioritize training,” he reveals. “I’ll compete in three half triathlons over the summer, building momentum towards the big challenge in Kona. If I do well there, I am one step closer to my ultimate goal: becoming a professional athlete!”

Go get ’em!

As Dylan embarks on his first race of the season, we extend our heartfelt support and admiration for his unwavering dedication. We eagerly anticipate following his ‘Road to Kona,’ cheering him on every step of the way. Go get ’em, Dylan!

On October 1st, 2023 Dylan Thissen, completed his first long-distance Ironman in Barcelona, finishing in an impressive 09:07. This remarkable feat placed him third in his age group and 12^th overall, boasting the second fastest bike split of the race. His performance was so outstanding that it secured him a spot at the World Championship Ironman in Kona, Hawaii, in 2024.

However, amidst the triumph and celebration, there was a sobering reminder of the risks associated with such high-intensity sports. During the race, Dylan witnessed a tragic accident – a crash between two bikes due to unsafe conditions that resulted in the death of one of the athletes.

A Celebration of Strength

Dylan’s achievement cannot be understated. Completing an Ironman is no small feat; it required months, if not years, of rigorous training and unwavering dedication. To finish third in his age group and secure a spot at the World Championship on his first attempt is a testament to Dylan’s athletic prowess and mental fortitude.

A Sobering Reminder

Yet, the tragic accident served as a stark reminder that safety should always be paramount. The thrill of competition should never overshadow the importance of athlete safety. It’s a sobering thought that amidst the personal victories and records broken, a life was lost due to unsafe conditions.

Prioritizing Health and Safety

As we celebrate Dylan’s achievements and mourn the loss of a fellow athlete, let this be a reminder to all – organizers, participants, and spectators alike – that health and safety should always come first. No victory is worth risking a life for.

In memory of the athlete who lost their life in Barcelona, let’s strive to make every race not just a competition of speed and endurance but also an exemplar of sportsmanship and safety.

Looking Ahead

As Dylan prepares for Kona 2024, we wish him all the best. His journey serves as an inspiration to many – a testament to human strength and resilience.

It takes a lot of strength to finish a triathlon but we wish every athlete the same strength to abort a triathlon or to slow down, if the conditions are not safe.

In the world of triathlon, success isn’t just about individual strength, determination and having a bike, a wetsuit and a pair of running shoes; it’s also about having the right mentor, guide, and coach. For the aspiring young triathlon talents of the Endurance Talent Foundation, Niels Ros is the silent force behind their journey to becoming professional triathletes.

A Trusted Mentor

Sure, anyone can devise a training regime, but Niels’s coaching approach goes beyond the blueprint. He’s ensuring they don’t just excel on the racecourse but also in life, providing stability and guidance. According to Emma, Niels is “the first coach who is able to tame her”. Asking for an example, Emma says; “When Niels found out I didn’t eat during training and races, he made a clear statement: no food, no training. Combined with his two main rules (1. The coach is always right and 2. See rule number one), it was actually just what I needed to make a step forward :-)”. Asking Dylan what Niels does and means for him, he says “Pffff, it’s easier to describe what Niels doesn’t do for me…it goes far beyond sports”.

Balancing the scales

One of Niels’s core strengths lies in helping his athletes strike the elusive work-life-sport balance. He understands that success in triathlon isn’t solely determined by the hours spent in training but also by ensuring that athletes maintain a well-rounded life. He supports them in managing their time effectively, ensuring that they don’t compromise their personal and professional lives while striving for excellence in their sport.

Nutrition is key

Nutrition is the fuel that powers any athlete’s performance. Niels takes this aspect seriously and serves as a nutritional guru for his athletes. He helps them tailor their diets to their individual needs, ensuring that they have the energy and nutrients required to excel in their rigorous training routines and competitions.

Mastering the Mind

Triathlons are not just physical battles; they are mental challenges as well. Niels understands the importance of mental resilience in sports and equips his athletes with the mental tools necessary to conquer doubt, fear, and fatigue. He instills in them the belief that they can overcome any obstacle, both on the racecourse and in life.

The best gear

In triathlons, the choice of equipment can make all the difference. Niels assist the athletes in this too, guiding them through the labyrinth of triathlon equipment options. From selecting the right bike (and the right wheels, saddle, crank, size, bike fit) to finding the perfect wetsuit, he ensures that his athletes have the best tools to perform at their peak. He’s even into 3D printing, looking for the boundaries of legal aero benefits.

Knowledge

Niels has years of experience in triathlon and a professional medical background, he has encountered and overcome many of the hurdles an athlete might face. These are invaluable assets for those aspiring to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

Conclusion

In the world of triathlon, having a coach like Niels can make the difference between merely participating and becoming a champion. His dedication to his athletes’ holistic development make him a guiding star for young triathlon talents. But most of all, Niels is a great guy, a loving husband for his wife Tessa and a dedicated father for his two young kids. Needless to say, we are super proud to have Niels in our team of The Endurance Talent Foundation!

In a land known for saunas, snowy landscapes, and an uncanny ability to produce heavy metal bands, Lahti, Finland, witnessed an epic saga unfold at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship. Dylan Thissen emerged as the 17th-place finisher in his age group. Let’s dive into his incredible journey and the impressive achievements he accomplished during the race.

A Standing Ovation for Dylan

Let’s start with a standing ovation for Dylan, whose epic performance at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Lahti deserves all the emojis! 🙌 His hard work paid off, placing him among the top athletes in his age group.

Numbers That Raised Eyebrows

Dylan’s race statistics read like a script:

🏁 Total Time: 04:02:02

🎖️ Age Group Ranking: 17th in a category where athletes usually train like they’re preparing for intergalactic warfare.

🏊‍♀️ Swim Time: 29:24 (Dylan: ‘the swim was dramatic’)

🚴 Bike Time: 02:03:28, fueled by an outrageous Normalized Power of 304 Watts⚡️⚡️, making him the second fastest cyclist in his age group! 🔥

 🏃‍♂️ Run Time: 01:20:54 (Dylan: ‘finally a nice run on the triathlon, am I a triathlete now?’)

Triathlete Triumph

With these remarkable achievements, Dylan has undoubtedly proven his mettle as a true triathlete. His performance in the swim, bike, and run segments showcases his well-rounded abilities and unwavering dedication to the sport. To cross the finish line of an IRONMAN 70.3 race is an accomplishment in itself, but to do so with such impressive times is a testament to Dylan’s training and determination. His light-hearted query, “am I a triathlete now?” receives a resounding and unequivocal “yes!” from the world.

Dylan vs. Mother Nature: Battle Royale

No one said achieving triathlon glory would be a cakewalk. Dylan’s humorous account of a “dramatic” swim suggests he had a front-row seat to his own aquatic adventure. The bike leg, accomplished amidst rain and hail, serves as a reminder that even Mother Nature has to concede to the determination of a triathlete on a mission.

Thanks Lahti!

A huge shoutout to the charming city of Lahti, Finland, for playing host to this spectacle. They didn’t just host a race; they showcased the ultimate showdown between determination and doubters.

Supporters, You’re the Real MVPs

Behind every incredible athlete, there’s a network of supporters who believe in their journey. Dylan takes a moment to tip his hat to his family and friends for being his rock—because even the most daring of triathletes need someone to cheer them on, to make them sandwiches and to turn an eye on a man shaving his legs.

What’s Next for Dylan?

As the echoes of cheers from Lahti slowly fade, Dylan Thissen’s next adventure awaits. He now sets his sights on the IRONMAN Barcelona, 1st of October. Yes, that’s his first full distance IRONMAN! Given the unpredictability of his past triumphs, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his extraordinary journey.

Needless to say, we are incredible proud of working with an athlete like Dylan. Go for it!

Dylan and his coach Niels have arrived, both with family and supporters, in Lahti, Finland, to compete at the World Championship IRONMAN 70.3. After an intense period of training, now it’s time to taper: fish, barbecue, test the new race suits, have massages, discover the course, clean and check the bike, shave the legs, stretch…you know the drill. Being lazy and feel good about it, what a life!

But don’t be mistaken. These guys are here with a mission. They may seem relaxed now, on Sunday they will turn into cold blooded warriors. Giving it all, making themselves and their competitors suffer. The calm before the storm, feeding the beast that has to wait a bit to be released. This is what they are living for, this is what has been in their minds on all the countless hours of running, swimming and cycling the last months.

Needless to say we are all looking forward to this great race. We wish Dylan and Niels a lot of strength, great support and a bit of luck. Get to the finish line safe, happy and..as quick as possible! 🔥🔥🔥

Emma wins

During the open WFN Dutch Time Trial Championships for non profs today in Nijeveen, Emma won the gold medal. And that’s well deserverd, considering she covered the 21.5 kilometers within half an hour, with an average speed of 43.7 km/h. This not only made Emma the fastest woman of the day, but she also took the fastest time ever set by the ladies on this course. A fantastic achievement, with which the red, white and blue jersey has earned a lot!

Dylan crashes

Dylan was unlucky today, but still did a fantastic job. He was riding at the limit when he slipped in a corner at 46 km/h and ended up in a ditch. Although the weather was fine to stay put, Dylan got on his bike as quickly as possible and managed to reach the finish with an unlikely average of 46,2 km/h. The fall not only caused him to fall on the asphalt, but also outside the prizes. Dylan finishes 18th. There will be few people who manage to get that done with a one-minute break. Incredible, Dylan! And most importantly: the bike and Dylan are only a little damaged, both ready for the next race!

What a day…

We are happy to tell you we have found another athlete to support: Dylan Thissen.

Dylan is a canon. A man on a mission. Unstoppable, going ‘all in’ for just one goal: to become a medal winning professional triathlete. Besides his job, Dylan is working 4 days a week as a data-engineer, he is training, eating and sleeping. Luckily his girlfriend is also training for triathlons, so there’s a shared passion. Do you want to know how fast Dylan is? Well, what do you think of a 43,8 km/h bike split for 90K at the IRONMAN 70.3 West Friesland? That’s pretty impressive. His effort was rewarded with a 4the place overall and a 2nd place in his age group. But more important, it got him a ticket to the IRONMAN 70.3 World Champioship in Lahti, Finland. We can’t wait to see you compete there.

Welcome in our team Dylan, we are looking forward to this journey. You will be a champion!