Gomez Noya trains in Pontevedra and is part of the Ciudad de Lugo Fluvial club in Lugo, Spain. Since 2013, he has been coached by Carlos David Prieto. His training regime is rigorous, reflecting his dedication to the sport.

Personal Life and Interests

Known by nicknames Javi and Xabi, Gomez Noya enjoys playing guitar, reading, surfing, and travelling. He speaks both English and Spanish fluently. His higher education includes a degree in Sports Science from INEF Pontevedra in Spain.

Influences and Idols

Gomez Noya cites his father as the most influential person in his career. He looks up to Ethiopian long-distance runner Haile Gebrselassie and British triathlete Simon Lessing as his idols.

Injuries and Challenges

Throughout his career, Gomez Noya has faced several injuries. In early 2016, he had a problem with his femur periosteum, which affected his preparation for the world championship series. This led him to focus on the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro instead. In 2010, he suffered a hip injury that kept him out of competition for six weeks.

Superstitions and Rituals

Gomez Noya has some unique pre- and post-race rituals. Before a race, he craves something sweet like cake. After a race, he prefers something salty like pizza and enjoys having a beer.

Awards and Honours

Gomez Noya has received numerous awards throughout his career. In 2016, he won the Princess of Asturias award in the sports category. In 2015, he set a record by winning his fifth individual world championship title. The same year, he was named Best Athlete by the Spanish Olympic Committee and Best Sportsman of Galicia.

He also won the National Sports Prize in 2014 and was named European Triathlon Union Male Athlete of the Year in 2015. In 2013, he received the Don Felipe de Borbon National Award for Spain's Sportsman of the Year.

Olympic Games Participation

Gomez Noya has participated in three Olympic Games. He faced challenges before both the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics due to injuries and illnesses. Despite these setbacks, he remained among the favourites.

Record-Breaking Achievements

In 2015, Gomez Noya became the first triathlete to win three consecutive ITU World Championship gold medals. This achievement solidified his status as one of the top athletes in triathlon history.

Health Challenges

In December 1999, a cardiac anomaly was detected in Gomez Noya, leading to a prohibition from competing internationally for Spain by the Spanish Sports Council. He regained his licence in November 2003 but faced another revocation in 2005. With help from international cardiology specialists, he recovered his licence again in February 2006.

Family Background

Born in Basel, Switzerland, Gomez Noya's parents were living there for professional reasons. They returned to Spain when he was just three months old.

Javier Gomez Noya continues to be a significant figure in triathlon with numerous accolades and achievements under his belt. His journey reflects dedication and resilience despite facing various challenges throughout his career.