Purple Patch Podcast

4 Nov 2026 08:20

416 - Prepare, Think & Act Like a Pro: Pat Romano on Qualifying for Kona at 61 & Leading as a CEO

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon talks with 15-year Purple Patch Athlete Pat Romano and his athletic breakthrough, emphasizing how long-term training supports performance in both work and family life. At 61, Pat set a 10:38 Ironman PR at California, finished fourth in his age group, and qualified for the Hawaii World Championships, improving by more than 20 minutes from his 2016 PR. He described shifting from rigidly following metrics to adapting to conditions, listening to his body, and managing the race in smaller segments. His season included a running injury and an unexplained performance dip, and preparation was affected by travel and the Nice race, so rest, sleep, and nutrition were emphasized. Pat also linked consistent training, recovery, hydration, and short mental resets to sustained focus and adaptability as a CEO, showing how habits from sport transfer into leadership.

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