Embrunman 2024

THAT’S ALL FOLKS

What a decade it’s been! Wrapping up my 10-year professional triathlon career with a win at Embrunman 2024.

I specifically chose this race as my final one, along with the attitude I brought to it. Like many times in my career, I wasn’t the fastest nor the best prepared on the day. There were doubts and fear, frustration and what ifs, but I set that all aside and asked myself how I wanted to remember my last race.

With a smile, was the answer.

a blip in the triathlon world
a world of emotion for me.
SMILE, SHE SAID

So I smiled. At check-in, at the start, on the bike, through the pain, at all the people shouting at me.

Into the black of the lake, up the brutal hills and through the scorching fields. It was as hard and memorable as I wanted it to be.

Relaxed, in-control and present, I fully experienced every minute of the race and I couldn’t have dreamed of a better way to close this chapter of my life.

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MEMORIES FOR A LIFETIME

People keep asking if I’m now reconsidering retirement. No. It can’t get any better than that, and I will forever treasure the happiness and feelings of Embrunman 2024.

As I look back on a decade of professional sport with a lot of emotion but zero regrets, I remember the challenges over the years. From injuries to gnawing self-doubt, there were many. Yet what I remember the brightest are the incredible highlights and the privilege of sharing moments with wonderful people. Though obstacles often seemed insurmountable at the time, I can now see how each one was a chance to learn and grow.

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FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART

I may have raced solo, but I was never alone and I would like to extend a special THANK YOU to:

 

My family. My team. I love you all ❤️

The coaches who helped me throughout my career: François, Joël, Frank, Marc, Brett, Jo, Denis, Tom.

All the strong, fair & square girls I raced over the last 10 years. In a world where values and fairness are sometimes lost in the chase for glory, I have the utmost respect for your sporting ethic. It was an honour to share the racecourse with you.

My current sponsors Saucony Switzerland and Alltricks, and those who came before.

All the followers, virtual and closer to home, who contributed to my journey far and wide.

 

Though rain and sunshine, you made it wonderful.

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SEE YOU OUT THERE

As I move forward, I’m excited to put more of my energy into my other ventures: crafting bike tours and triathlon camps through nevistravel., continuing my work in writing and translation with nevisroad., and supporting other athletes as a coach.

The adventure continues and I look forward to what lies ahead. See you soon, in the triathlon world and beyond!

X

Emma

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All photos © F. Boukla / Activ’Images

emmabilham.

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