In just a few days, Miriam Casillas is set to become the Extremaduran woman with the highest number of appearances in the Olympic Games. For this triathlete, who started her journey at 12 years old as a remedy for her back problems and a quest for outdoor activity, it is a tremendous source of pride. Now, at 32, she is preparing for her third Olympic appearance after an impressive season, carrying the love for her homeland and family close to her heart.
Miriam is an essential part of a historic Spanish team, as Spain is among only three countries to have three athletes in the men’s event and one of just four countries to enter a total of five athletes across both categories. We spoke with her about her beginnings in triathlon, which were sparked by her father and supported by her inseparable brother, her medical studies inspired by her mother, and her future aspirations.
She reflects on how her family has always played a crucial role in her journey. “My family has been incredibly important. It was my father who introduced my brother and me to triathlon, and my parents took me to competitions and training every weekend. My brother has been my role model in sports from a young age, and we’re fortunate to have shared so much through this journey.”
When asked when she knew she wanted to pursue triathlon seriously, Miriam admits there wasn’t a definitive moment. “It just happened gradually. I never thought I could make a living from this, but I trained as though I would.”
At 18, she moved to the High-Performance Center in Badajoz to study medicine, and the transition wasn’t easy. Despite initial struggles with her academic performance and the rejection of a scholarship, she acknowledges that these challenges helped her believe more in herself and learn how to optimize her time effectively.
Miriam has seen much change from her debut in 2009 to now, including competing in her second and third Olympics in Rio and Tokyo. “It’s amazing to be back; it’s often said that it’s tough to reach the top, but even tougher to stay there. I feel like a more experienced athlete who can handle both good and bad moments, which will help me during the competition.”
With the upcoming 2024 Olympics, she expresses pride in being part of a historic Spanish team and is excited to represent her country. “I’ve always been proud to be a part of this team. Spain has been a powerhouse in triathlon for many years, especially in the men’s category. It’s a privilege for me to learn from my teammates and improve together.”
When she learned she had qualified for Paris, her first instinct was to grab her backpack and go train while calling her family. As the Olympics approach, she is focused on delivering her best performance: reaching the starting line with confidence and enthusiasm.
Among the three disciplines she competes in—open water swimming, cycling, and running—she finds it difficult to choose which takes the most energy. All three require significant dedication, and she typically spends equal time on each, though cycling often takes more hours due to its demands. “I love running and finishing a triathlon strongly; it’s among the best feelings you can have.”
Maintaining a balance between her professional and personal life is important to Miriam. With training sessions ranging from 25 to 30 hours a week, she emphasizes the need for rest and downtime. “I want to be valued not just as an athlete, but as a complete person, someone with other interests and a life outside of triathlon.”
As she heads to Paris with teammates Ana Godoy and Noelia Juan, she values their bond. “Although we see each other infrequently, we constantly support each other. We’ve experienced so much together and have helped each other grow.”
Family remains her grounding force, reminding her that beyond being an athlete, she is also a daughter and sister. Each athlete’s dream is unique, and for Miriam, her bike is as much an ally as a prized possession as she prepares for competition.
Looking ahead, she acknowledges the significance of competing in both the individual event and the mixed relay, feeling excited for both. Her successful past season has boosted her confidence, and she credits her success to consistency and daily hard work.
Despite the physical and mental challenges she has faced, Miriam remains steadfast in her journey. “I’ve had tough moments, especially with injuries, but there’s something within that drives you to keep going. I have never considered quitting.”
Gazing toward the future, her focus is on Paris and continued improvement. As for her medical career, she’s yet to decide on a specialty but is interested in areas like psychiatry and cardiology.
Badajoz holds a special place in her heart as she prepares to make history as the Extremaduran woman with the most Olympic appearances. “It’s a fact I just learned, and I hope it inspires future generations to engage more in sports. Badajoz is my home, and I believe that despite not having the best resources, we have an inner strength and determination that make it all worth it.”
Miriam’s journey is a testament to perseverance and passion, and as she gears up for her Olympic debut, the world will be watching.
Image and News Source: https://es-us.vida-estilo.yahoo.com/charlamos-miriam-casillas-convertirse-mujer-090003078.html
