Charting a New Course for Saudi Arabia in the World of Rowing
August 13th, 2024
In the realm of sports, few stories are as compelling as that of Talal Alakeel, a trailblazing athlete who began his athletic career on the icy slopes of skiing before an unexpected injury led him to the waters of competitive rowing. Two years into this new chapter, Talal’s passion for rowing has already propelled him onto the global stage, representing Saudi Arabia at prestigious championships across Asia and the world. With his sights set on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, Talal’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding desire to bring pride to his nation through the pursuit of sporting excellence. We sit down with the athlete and find out exactly what drives him forward, one race at a time.
From the slopes to the waves, Saudi athlete Talal Alakeel redefines his journey in pursuit of Olympic glory, showcasing an unwavering commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and authenticity.
1. Why did you first start rowing?
I initially began my athletic career in skiing, but after sustaining an injury, I switched to rowing. My transition was seamless due to the crossover of training in both sports and forming a strong bond with the head coach. The progression in my skills and enjoyment of the sport solidified my commitment to rowing. Unlike skiing, which required extended periods abroad, rowing provided the flexibility to train at home and overseas, making it a perfect fit for my lifestyle.
What do you think is the best thing about rowing as a sport?
Rowing stands out to me as an incredibly demanding sport. Unlike other sports where play is central, rowing requires rigorous training. What I love most about rowing is the camaraderie among the athletes and the relationships you develop along the way. Representing Saudi Arabia in international competitions is a source of immense pride for me. There’s also an indescribable feeling during a race when everything falls into place perfectly.
“Humility and self-reflection are vital because, regardless of winning or losing, analyzing what went right or wrong is essential for continuous improvement.’’
What do you think is the most important thing about sportsmanship?
Sportsmanship, to me, involves appreciating the hard work that everyone puts in just to reach the point of competition. Good sportsmanship is crucial as it reflects well on the country you represent. Humility and self-reflection are vital because, regardless of winning or losing, analyzing what went right or wrong is essential for continuous improvement.
Where do you want to take your career?
My ultimate goal is to compete in the 2028 Olympics. Along the way, I aim to achieve several milestones, such as podium finishes at both indoor and outdoor rowing competitions. I aspire to balance a full-time job while also being a full-time athlete, demonstrating that it is possible to excel in both career and sport.
What has been the most surprising thing about the Paris Olympics for you thus far?
One of the most surprising aspects of the Paris Olympics has been witnessing teenagers not only participating but also dominating by winning gold medals and breaking world records. A standout moment for me was watching Dunya Aboutaleb, Saudi’s Taekwondo athlete, who narrowly missed out on a bronze medal but showcased phenomenal athleticism. Naturally, I also followed rowing events closely and was amazed by how many races were decided by the smallest of margins.
What is your definition of ‘athlete mentality’?
The ‘athlete mentality’ is grounded in consistency. There is no special formula or training; it’s about sticking to the basics and being consistent. Humility is crucial for reflection and improvement. Being able to shut out external noise and focus solely on the task at hand is imperative. In rowing, as in many sports, you often get only one chance, so showing up and performing when it matters is essential.
If you had one piece of advice for your younger self, what would that be?
I would definitely advise my younger self to get involved in sports earlier. I would also encourage not being afraid to make mistakes or try new things. These experiences are invaluable for personal and athletic growth.
Less is more or more is more?
In sports, I firmly believe that less is more. Training efficiently and avoiding both mental and physical burnout is key. This doesn’t mean training less intensely, but rather taking the time to understand how your body functions and recognizing your limits. I’ve noticed a trend among people new to fitness: they often make their routines overly challenging by waking up extremely early. Instead, a better approach is making your fitness routine convenient and enjoyable.
“I would definitely advise my younger self to get involved in sports earlier’’
What is style to you?
Style is a way to express individuality and personality. More importantly, style instils confidence and makes you feel good about yourself. A person who sums this up pretty well is former NFL player Deion Sanders. He started the trend of players wearing nice clothes to the stadium before games. When asked why, he said, “When I look good, I feel good. When I feel good, I play well.”
What is authenticity to you?
Authenticity means staying true to yourself and leaving your unique impact on the world. It involves not merely following in someone else’s footsteps but creating your own path. Being authentic also means aligning your words and beliefs with your actions.
