Marten van Riel, often described as the “coolest cat in triathlon,” is a three-time Olympian, a multiple World Triathlon Series medalist, undefeated over the 70.3 distance, and the reigning T100 World Champion. But in a raw and unfiltered Instagram post earlier today, he reminded the world that even champions face moments of vulnerability.
“I am in my fourth week of not running now after I got a serious ankle sprain,” van Riel wrote. “And I was already not feeling like myself before that. Finally I am making a little bit of progress, so hopefully I can start building some load on my ankle soon. Whatever happens the next weeks I’ll take it day by day, focusing on improving myself and my ankle. I haven’t given up on IM World Champs in Nice but I know everything will have to go perfect to even make the start line. So let’s give it my best shot.”
The response was immediate. Messages of support poured in from across the triathlon world – fans, fellow athletes, friends – all echoing the same thing: you’re not in this alone. It wasn’t just an injury update; it was a rare, honest glimpse into the mental weight of injury and elite sport. It was Marten, in his own words, keeping it Riel.
Van Riel himself has always been known for his camaraderie and trademark humour on course. At a recent T100 race in San Francisco, fellow competitor Mika Noodt urged him during the run, “Come on, one turn, we can catch him!” Van Riel, already giving max effort, replied: “I don’t think we can, bro.” Now, in a poignant twist of phrase, the message from the triathlon community is reversed: We know you can, bro.
Whatever happens in the weeks ahead, van Riel’s story is a reminder that triathlon is about more than finish lines and placings. It is about perseverance, connection, and the moments when the sport rallies behind one of its own.
Stay tuned for further updates on Marten’s ability to return to the start line in time for the Nice Ironman World Championships.
View this post on Instagram
The post We Know You Can, Bro: Marten van Riel Faces Injury and Mental Health Struggles with the Triathlon Community Behind Him appeared first on Triathlon Magazine Canada.