Some efforts begin long before the start line. For Alistair Brownlee, the road to a race is rarely linear. It’s a journey paved with long hours of training, strategic planning, and meticulous attention to detail. But preparation is rarely about the spotlight. It’s about the unseen hours—the rides in silence, the countless adjustments, and the mental discipline required to push past limits.

Training for The Traka 360, a tough off-road endurance race, demands more than just physical strength—it requires mental resilience and focus. Brownlee’s training is about building endurance and strength, then layering in technical aspects like balance, pacing, and efficiency. This is where the real work happens—behind the scenes, far from race day. It’s about consistency, the slow grind of effort, and small adjustments to ensure everything is dialed in perfectly.

Worn through this process, the Squadron Jersey and Convoy Shorts aren’t just about performance—they’re built for serious athletes who need gear that stands up to long training sessions. The Squadron Jersey’s breathable fabric keeps the body cool, while the Convoy Shorts offer flexibility and support. Tested in the hours no one sees, this kit is designed to endure the demands of preparation without compromise.

But no matter how much you prepare, race day often writes its own story.

Alistair’s experience at The Traka 360 was a reminder of the unpredictability of racing. In his words:
“Not the day I was hoping for. Crashed out just before the first aid station when my steering tube snapped and I hit the deck hard. Thankfully, nothing broken, just a few cuts, bruises, and a sore body. Gutted not to finish, especially with how much I was enjoying the course up to that point. I hate DNFing, but sometimes it’s out of your hands. Big thanks to the organisers and medics who helped me out quickly. I’ll be back.”

Despite the setback, Alistair’s resilience shines through—he’s already looking ahead to the next challenge.

The Traka 360 is one of the toughest off-road endurance events, designed to push riders to their physical and mental limits. The course, stretching over 360 kilometers, mixes rugged terrain, steep climbs, and unpredictable conditions. But beyond the challenge, there’s a unique camaraderie among participants—a bond formed through shared grit and determination.

Alistair’s reflection on his experience at The Traka shows that race day rarely goes as planned. What matters is how you respond to setbacks and continue pushing forward. The question that always follows a DNF is: “What’s next?” For Alistair, it’s about getting back on the bike and learning from the experience. There’s always another race on the horizon, and his journey is far from over.

In endurance sports, success is built on preparation, resilience, and how you bounce back from challenges. For Alistair Brownlee, The Traka 360 was just one chapter in an ongoing story—one of dedication and perseverance. And for fans and athletes alike, the journey continues, because there’s always another race to conquer.