"My passion started as a young kid. As told by my parents, when I was about 4 years old I kept asking for a bicycle for months! When I finally got one, I never let it go. Turning 16 years old, I remember my grandfather had a top notch road bicycle from the 70’s. It was completely out of reach for me for years, but when I finally got the chance to ride I felt a whole new sense of emotion, even though it was way too big for me to ride it at the time.
This was an awakening for me.
I’m Filipe Matos, an ultra cycling athlete. In the year of 2013 I started short distance races, soon realizing that my strength was the power of endurance. Just riding 3h marathons wasn’t enough for me. The challenge is what drives me.
Since then I’ve participated in 24h championships. Not being enough, I wanted to go further and achieve my personal goals in ultra cycling races and championships."
Achievements
12th
BIKINGMAN 1000km Non-Stop 2021
3rd
Virtual 24 hours World TT Championship2021
1st
VR24 6h NON-STOP 2020 (AG) 30/40
6th
VRAAM - Virtual Race Across America
2397km NON-STOP and 5500km on Zwift - 2020
2nd
24h SOLO BIKE SEBRING (AG) 30/35 - RAAM QUALIFIER
Miami - Florida, USA - 2019
Miami - Florida, USA - 2019
2nd
24h SOLO MTB EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP - Penafiel - Portugal - 2019
Proudest Moment:
One of the most memorable moments for me was the race in Scotland. The weather was rough, rain non-stop and cold as ever. But I was having the time of my life! The location is astonishing and the course was super challenging at every lap. At the end, my girlfriend comes running to me happy that I managed to conquer 3rd place and I was not even worried about any title, I was just really enjoying it and having fun. That really made me keep a reminder to never forget to have fun.
Another wonderful memory was the only time I managed to convince my girlfriend to participate a 12h couple’s race. She really dislikes riding a bicycle and hadn’t been on one for over ten years. It was pouring rain, yet she didn’t quit and managed to make her lap. That showed me that I’m never alone and that I do have the power to inspire others with my passion for biking.
What has Hammer done for you?
Personally, nutrition is a focal point for me. I do believe that it really makes a difference, either supplements as well as food and beverages. It all started with Hammer electrolytes, which are the only one that keeps me balanced and doesn’t give my any nausea or discomfort. Another remarkable point, is the mission and values shared. The high quality products, the information provided as well as a conscience regarding the environment. That is the way to go.