Helle Frederiksen’s interview

Helle Frederiksen, the best Olympic Disctance Danish triathlete, came to Nevers in November to visit LOOK’s facilities. Helle was captivated to see LOOK’s latest innovations, which she uses on a daily bases for training and races, being hand made in front of her. We took her visit as an opportunity to organise a photo shoot, and asked her a few questions.

VIDEO : Helle’s photo shoot making off. Click here.

Are you getting back into shape after your back and hip injury ?
I’ve had 3 weeks off training because of it. But my rehab has been going well and now I’m training again without being in pain.

You’ve had a run of bad luck this season. How do you look back on it and remain positive ?
Up to the middle of the season it was going very well but then I had the crash in Madrid where I displaced my hip and had very bad road rash on my back. After that, it went from bad to worst and it’s been one big rollercaster since that.

How do you stay focused when things aren’t going great ?
I know I have potential and I can achieve  very good results. My aim is the 2012 Olympics, it’s my dream and the 2011 season is going to be decisive, so that keeps my going.

Out of all your victories, is there one you’re most proud of ?
It would have to be the Silver Medal I got at the 2009 Mexico World Cup. The course was very tough and the weather terribly hot. It is also the best achievement for a female Danish triathlete.

You’ve received an Olympic Scholarship for London 2012. What does it mean concretly ?
It means that I’m recognized as an athlete who has potential and that they believe in what I can do. Only 8 athletes in Denmark got a scholarship. We do have a little financial support which is great in the sport of triathlon.

Out of the 3 disciplines, which one is your strongest ?
When you get to my level, you have to be good in all three legs. But I’m pretty good at running off the bike.

What do you look for in a bike ?
I want a bike that’s light but stiff and responsive. Design is also important.

How do you choose your equipment ?
I get sponsored for my equipment. When I started out as an triathlete I would contact the brands myself. When you start getting results, sponsors contact you so now I get to choose. I look for quality : I’d rather have less sponsors as long as they have quality products. I also choose brands that will fit well together.

Before working with LOOK, what opinion did you have of the brand ?
For me it meant quality, I knew it was handmade in France, as opposed to other brands who build their bikes in Asia. I’ve also known LOOK for their clipless pedals for a long time.

You do a lot of travelling between Denmark, Lanzarote and all the places you go to compete. How do you handle all that ?
It can be tiring but I prioritize and only do what is really important. When you really want to do something, you fit in into your schedule ! You need to be organized.

Why choose to spend the winter in Lanzarote ?
For professionnal and personal reasons. To train, it’s much better, because you have nice weather. I went for a ride yesterday in Denmark and it was only 1° and there was ice on the ground ! A lot of triathletes come to Lanzarote for training course. - so there are always people to train with. Also of course my boyfriends lives in Lanzarote

Besides triathlon, what are your main interests ?
I don’t have much time to do anything else ! But when I have time, I prioritise to see my friends and my family.

Any tips for triathletes ?
When you start out, talk to experienced athletes and be open to advice. Otherwise you might train wrong and even injure yourself. As for equipment, get second hand bike or wetsuit and ask some info off the person you buy it from.

The 2011 season starts in March. What events will you be competing on ?
My first 3 races are scheduled. I’m going to Australia for the World Cup in March. Then there is the World Championship Series in Sydney and after that I’m off to Japan. I’ll come back to Denmark after that.

How do you pick your races ?
I choose races that get you points to qualify for the Olympics. I also try to choose a set of races that are close to each other, then train for a while, and do another set of races.