Interview with Rachel Klamer
Rachel Klamer’s sporting career started out with running and swimming at school and it wasn’t until she was 17 that she took up triathlon. In her own words ‘it wasn’t love at first sight’ but her natural talent and determination shone through and she quickly tasted success winning the junior Dutch National championships in triathlon and duathlon. From there her triathlon career blossomed with numerous international titles, podiums and victories at World Cup level.
Let's find out more about Rachel as she gets ready for her fourth Olympic Games in 2024.
Who is Rachel Klamer?
I am a professional triathlete from the Netherlands and grew up in a lovely sport minded family. When I was young, my favourite outings were going to do local running races as a family. I love nature and helping other people.
Where is home?
Beuningen (Overijssel). A small town in the Netherlands.
When did you fall in love with triathlon?
I did my first triathlon in 2008, but it wasn't immediately love at first sight! It was so different from the swimming and running races I used to do. Now I had to combine those disciplines and add another one. Combining the disciplines felt entirely different than pursuing them separately. Once I managed to get this more under control and started doing well, it became much more fun.
What is it that attracts you to the sport?
Being able to do multiple sports (although it doesn't really feel like three different sports anymore). Being able to spend lots of time outside, traveling around the world and meeting new people.
Career highlights/achievements?
Two 4th places at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics (individual and relay).
This will be your 4th Olympics, in which other Games did you participate?
London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2021, and now Paris 2024.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your triathlon career?
To still enjoy what I do even when the outcome of races is not how I want them to be.
Your goals for 2024?
Race well at the Paris Olympics.
Favourite Food?
Breakfast & dinner in general. I think triathletes love food. One of my favourite dinners is nasi with satay sauce.
Lucky charm?
No..
What do you always take on a trip?
Running shoes, bike, and swim gear 😉.
What would you be if you were not a racer?
I'm not sure. I always had a wide interest. Maybe I would have been an architect.
You’re favourite Squirt Cycling Product?
Squirt Chain lube! I love how it doesn't make everything black and it's really easy to clean off. I seriously hated having black chains and now I do not have to deal with this anymore.
The best tip for triathlete beginners?
Try to join others for training so you can learn from other athletes. Also remember you don’t need the fanciest equipment to do your first triathlon.
I like my coffee...not at all.
The secret to happiness... doing what you love doing.
My greatest exhilaration... is being in nature.
I fear...sharks.
Passion...keeps me going every day for the sport I love.
When I wake up... I want to have breakfast.
I wish...there was world peace.
I rage…people who litter.
Athlete Profile
Name: Rachel Shamiso Klamer
Nickname:
Age: 33
Birthdate: 08-10-1990
Birthplace: Harare (Zimbabwe)
Height: 167
Shoe size: 24,5 cm (EU 38/US 7.5)
