In the world of sports, where individuality and personal journeys are celebrated, Esther Joy Chen exemplifies New Balance’s ‘Run Your Way’ ethos, showcasing her unique athletic journey.
Petite in stature, with a sun-kissed tan and a personality as vibrant as a sparkler, Esther defies the conventional image of an athlete. She embodies the phrase ‘small but mighty’, proving that strength and determination aren’t dictated by physical size.
Esther’s journey in triathlons—a demanding blend of swimming, cycling, and running—highlights her exceptional athleticism and endurance. Representing Malaysia at the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam, she has not only competed but shone brightly, showcasing her skill and resilience in each discipline.
Her passage into the world of triathlons unfolds like an epic saga, replete with serendipity, unrelenting determination, and a multifaceted backdrop drawn from her diverse sporting experiences.
Esther’s path to becoming a triathlete began during the challenging days of the Movement Control Order (MCO) when life came to a standstill.
She recalls, ‘There was no running, no wushu at that time. So everything was already gone, and I was just a person who sat at home and did nothing.’
Little did she know, her life was about to take a new and exciting turn.
A Twist of Fate: Esther’s Journey to Triathlons
It all started when her coach, who was scouting for fresh talent, received a recommendation from someone who had spotted Esther during a road race.
This twist of fate led to an invitation for a triathlon trial. Esther was instantly captivated by the sport and remembers, ‘From then onwards, I was hooked.’
One might wonder why running is particularly vital in the world of triathlons. Esther explains, ‘Running is important in triathlons because, if everybody is at the same level, it always comes down to the run, being the last discipline of a triathlon.’
She emphasizes that the fastest runner often emerges victorious when competitors come off the bike simultaneously.
The Power of Nutrition and Footwear: Esther’s Winning Combination
Esther’s dedication to the sport goes beyond just her runs. She recognizes the significance of nutrition in longer-distance triathlon races, like the 70.3. During the biking segment, she fuels herself with energy gels and electrolyte-rich drinks to sustain her performance.
Esther’s training gear, particularly her New Balance running shoes, plays a crucial role in her routine. She notes, ‘For daily training, I usually opt for the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 or the FuelCell Propel v4.’ These choices show her preference for comfortable and effective training shoes.
Her commitment to her sport is evident as she mentions going through several pairs of the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3, which she uses for her track and speed workouts. Esther’s training regimen is a well-orchestrated blend of disciplines, avoiding double runs in a day.
She remarks, ‘So we never do running twice a day, that’s why our mileage is also not the highest. Our mileage is maybe 50 to 70 km a week only.
The Multisport Advantage: Esther’s Path to Triathlon Success
What truly sets Esther apart is not just her remarkable athletic journey but the rich tapestry of her diverse sports background.
Her experiences as a state swimmer, a national cross-country champion, a state runner for track, a national Wushu athlete, and her foray into gymnastics have collectively sculpted her into the athlete she is today.
Esther reflects on how these varied sports experiences have benefited her triathlon journey: “All those sports when I was younger gave me a really good base to start triathlon. Running has made me a better triathlete definitely because in most local races, no matter how slow I am on the swim or on the bike, as long as I have a decent swim or bike, my run can manage to catch up to other people.”
Unveiling the Future: Esther’s Shining Promise
Peering into the horizon, we find an indomitable spirit in Esther Joy Chen, one that embodies the very essence of a versatile athlete.
Anticipating the future, one cannot help but be captivated by the promising journey awaiting Esther.
Her odyssey, etched in the language of perseverance and unwavering determination, serves as a guiding light, inspiring aspiring athletes.
As Esther continues to carve her mark in the world of triathlons, her story becomes a guiding force within New Balance’s ‘Run Your Way’ movement.
This is more than just a story. It’s an invitation to runners to forge their paths, embrace their differences, and find strength in the knowledge that, in running, there is no right or wrong way – there is only your way.
The running community is a mosaic of individuals, each with their unique motivations, struggles, and triumphs.
This is how Esther Joy Chen runs her way.
