Boulderite Jimmy “The Rock” Archer has dozens of top-10 finishes in some of the world’s most demanding triathlons. He’s also a personal trainer and is working to create a pro triathlon team modeled after professional bicycle teams.
1. What is your best training technique?
My best training technique is consistency and specificity. I know it is not the flash answer … but the fact is in endurance sports you see the greatest improvement through consistent, dedicated, hard work.
2. What is your worst injury?
A broken arm at the growth zone from playing king of the mountain when I was 7.
3. Most frightening moment?
At the 2000 Keystone Xterra triathlon I was solidly in the top 10 and really flying down (on a mountain bike) what is a very technical descent on Keystone Mountain. I moved out of the smooth line in a wide single track to pass another racer just before what seemed to be a pretty gentle left-hand turn. However, I was going fast enough that when I went to turn, I just kind of hydroplaned and floated over the loose rocks on the side of the trail. My front wheel dropped over the lip of the trail, and I was launched over the bars into the forest. I actually remember going over the bars flying through the air toward a small group of about five trees and thinking, “This could be it for real.” I hit the first tree just below my left shoulder, breaking two ribs, which spun me 180 degrees into another tree, which I hit hard with my hip and nearly tore my shorts off. After that, it is really just a blur. (Archer finished the race in 12th place.)
4. How do you push through mental fatigue?
First, I know that no amount of pain or mental fatigue is worse than the feeling of dropping out of a race. Second, I know that everyone else is going through the same thing at some point.
5. What is the sickest thing you have ever seen?
Greg LeMond’s time trial to win the 1989 Tour de France.
6. Who do you admire most?
My parents. They are awesome. My dad was a world champion drag racer and is the smartest guy I’ve ever met. And my mom has more compassion, patience and energy than anyone.
7. What music revs you up for a big contest?
For getting psyched, definitely Metallica, Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, Iron Maiden.
8. Best advice you’ve received?
Develop an unshatterable belief in yourself, from coach Joe Vigil. I would add: Never give up, quitting is NOT an option.
Check in with Jimmy at jimmyarcher.com.
