Ambassador Profile: The Limitless Determination of William Fortin

At Cycles Dupuis, we have the privilege of working with athletes whose journeys go far beyond sport. Today, we are highlighting a member of our family for the past 10 years: a man who transformed his natural intensity into a quiet strength on the long-distance triathlon circuit.

The Turning Point: Shifting Intensity

It all began in January 2015. While going through a period of self-reflection, he sought a challenge that matched his need to push boundaries. That’s when the "crazy" idea of an Ironman took hold. The transition to this new lifestyle happened instinctively:

"I simply transferred my intensity toward training. Once I went all in, it became addictive. During my first race, as soon as I got on the bike, everything changed. Passing hundreds of people gave me an indescribable feeling. I was completely hooked."

10 Years of Trust and Precision Mechanics

William discovered the shop through his cousin, Antoine. For a decade, he has entrusted his bikes to the Cycles Dupuis team to ensure every race start begins with absolute confidence. For him, a visit to the workshop is a sacred ritual: a full tune-up so that gears shift perfectly and the chain feels brand new before hitting the pavement.

Nutrition: The Fuel for Performance

One of the most striking aspects of his recent evolution is undoubtedly his energy management. Long underestimated, nutrition became his primary lever for progress in 2024. He admits to having run "on empty" for a long time without realizing it:

"I wasn’t eating poorly, but often I simply wasn’t eating enough. At work, I would settle for granola bars. Since I started integrating prepared meals and a more aggressive gel strategy, I’ve been breaking my records one after another. Nutrition has become a true performance tool."

A Balancing Act: The Job Site, Family, and the Road

Working in construction, William must juggle a demanding schedule. His training weeks—ranging from 1.5 to 5 hours a day—require impeccable logistics and, above all, the unwavering support of his partner.

"I am aware that this commitment requires sacrifices. I am incredibly lucky to be supported by an amazing partner who understands my lifestyle. Without this balance—even if it's imperfect—none of this would be possible."

The Ironman of Resilience: Running After a Birth

If one race defines his strength of character, it’s Ironman Mont-Tremblant 2022. The start took place the day after his daughter was born. Exhausted from an all-nighter at the hospital, he still took the starting line, even taking a short "power nap" on the run course to finish the race. To him, that finish line proves that perseverance always triumphs over fatigue.

Eyes on the Future: A Strategic Break for a Stronger Return

This season, the calendar will be lighter. With the construction of his new house, he is choosing wisdom over exhaustion, preferring not to tackle the "Queen distance" without optimal preparation.

"Running an Ironman without preparation can be very demanding, both physically and mentally. I’m keeping my eyes on the future: 2027 will be the year I come back and crush it!"

Advice from our ambassador: "Don't wait for the perfect moment. Respect the distance, surround yourself with the right people, and above all, take it one step at a time."

The entire Cycles Dupuis team is proud to support him in his current and future challenges. Have a great season!