Verena Steinhauser

Originally from Bressanone in northern Italy, but now living and training in Pescara, it would be fair to claim that running was in her blood, given that she was inspired by her mother to first lace up the trainers aged just five.

Starting with junior events, Steinhauser became Italian senior champion in 2016, and was runner-up last year to experienced Super League Triathlon racer and Tokyo Olympian Alice Betto.

Despite all her experience, Steinhauser still loves triathlon and has a refreshing attitude to her role in the sport: “Being a professional athlete is one of the most amazing jobs ever,” she says. “You can live by doing what you love.”

Coached by Simone Mantolini, Steinhauser has had a fine year to date, making it to the final round of the elimination format racing in the Montreal World Triathlon Championship Series that closely mirrors Super League Triathlon racing.

She’s also had top 10 finishes over the sprint distance on home soil in Arzachena, Italy – where she had the honour of wearing the No 1 bib – and in the super sprint indoor format in France. All of which should put her in good stead for a strong tilt at Super League Championship Series success.

After a hard race, Steinhauser loves to tuck into a hamburger and fries, admitting that while it might not always be the optimal way to recover, sometimes she just needs it. Many of us will attest to that.