Sport, Responsibility, and the Role of RESTUBE in Para-Sport
Maria is not only a successful triathlete but also a dentist – and she takes on a very special role in para-sport: guiding visually impaired triathlete Anja Renner. In this interview, she shares how she balances elite sports with responsibility and why safety tools like RESTUBE play such an important role.
Balancing Dentistry and Elite Sports
Maria knows what it means to juggle two demanding careers. “It was always a balancing act,” she says. After years of working as a dentist, she recently decided to focus fully on sports. Being a guide requires maximum flexibility: training camps, diagnostics, races, and events often come at short notice.
How It All Started
Maria’s triathlon journey began in her hometown Ingolstadt, where a race was relaunched. “At that time, I was only a runner, but I wanted to try something new and just signed up. Training across three disciplines hooked me immediately – and it still does today.”
Teamwork at the Highest Level
As a guide, Maria is by Anja’s side through every discipline:
- Swimming: In open water, they are tethered, with Maria navigating the course.
- Cycling: On the tandem bike, they train side by side, adjusting the intensity together.
- Running: Connected by a waist belt, Maria ensures safe navigation, provides guidance on tricky passages, and even hands out water.
“As a guide, you need to be physically stronger so you don’t slow the athlete down. But even more important: mentally, I have to be 100% present. Every mistake I make directly impacts Anja’s race – that responsibility drives me and sharpens my focus.”
Trust and Safety
Trust is at the heart of para-triathlon. “We’ve tested a lot, talked about possible mistakes, and built strong routines. That gives us confidence.”
For Maria, safety in open water is non-negotiable: “I would never go into open water without a safety buoy. It makes me visible to others and gives me peace of mind. Knowing we have a backup if something happens makes all the difference.”
She believes RESTUBE can add extra safety for para-athletes:
“Especially with blind athletes, the guide carries even more responsibility. Having RESTUBE as a backup means both of us can feel safer and more confident in the water.”
Making RESTUBE Known in Para-Sport
Maria sees many opportunities to make RESTUBE more visible in para-sport and triathlon: “Offering RESTUBE during swim course familiarizations before World Cup races or at open water wetsuit test events would be fantastic. These are the perfect occasions to show athletes how simple tools can improve their safety.”
Maria’s Message to Those Hesitant About Open Water
Finally, Maria encourages anyone who still feels uncertain about open water:
“Give it a try – but do it safely! Go with a group, choose good weather conditions, and wear a Safety Buoy. It’s not about best times, it’s about the experience. With the right equipment and support, the water can become a place of trust and confidence.”
