Ben Kanute on Power Myths, Race Chaos & Why Pros Need to Stop Making Excuses

This week on The Real Triathlon Podcast, the crew is joined by Ben Kanute fresh off a 2nd place finish at IRONMAN 70.3 Dallas Little Elm, a race defined by a shortened swim, brutal winds, and plenty of chaos.

Ben dives into what it actually felt like racing in those conditions, how time-trial starts change the dynamic of a race, and why pros need to rethink how they talk about performance.

The conversation gets deep into:

• The reality of bike power vs speed (and why chasing watts might be holding you back)
• How aero, efficiency, and race execution matter more than big numbers
• The danger of “if-then excuses” in race recaps
• Bike safety, race logistics, and the risks athletes face on open roads

Plus, things get weird (as always) with:

• Wind riding excuses vs bike handling reality
• IV drips during races (??)
• Probiotic sodas, hot tub etiquette, and drive-thru patience
• And a classic Pass or Smash segment

It’s equal parts high-level performance insight and absolute chaos with one of the most experienced athletes in the sport.

 

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Individual Instagram handles:

Garrick Loewen - @loeweng

Nicholas Chase - @race_chase

Jackson Laundry - @jacksonlaundrytri

Lisa Becharas - @lisabecharas