Diabetes Can't Stop Cyclist's Champion Dreams

Brais Dacal, diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age seven, transformed a perceived limitation into a source of discipline and courage. He pursued a career in professional cycling, including five seasons with Team Novo Nordisk, a team composed of riders with diabetes. Though no longer racing professionally, Dacal remains an ambassador, sharing his experience of managing Type 1 diabetes at the elite level.

His philosophy centers on owning his diabetes rather than letting it control him. Dacal highlights the necessity of meticulous planning for managing blood glucose levels, insulin intake, and food consumption, especially during demanding training rides. He advocates for thorough preparation, carrying extra supplies, and developing contingency plans, likening it to being ready for any eventuality.

Dacal asserts that elite athletic performance is intrinsically linked to overall health. For athletes managing Type 1 diabetes, this means prioritizing proper nutrition, recovery, and illness prevention alongside rigorous, planned training. He emphasizes that pushing physical limits requires deliberate strategy, not random effort, and stresses the importance of listening to one's body to know when to rest.

Currently, as the general manager of a large sports organization, Dacal continues to apply these principles of planning, flexibility, and attentiveness to his body, even with a less structured training schedule. He also sees significant potential for cycling's growth in India and hopes to see the sport gain more international visibility.