Simon Debognies

Simon Debognies

I am Simon Debognies, a professional distance runner with the Ministry of Defence and the Runners' Lab Athletics Team. I am currently specialising in the 5000 metres and the 10000 metres. In the longer term, I want to make the step to the marathon. The running bug has been with me since I was a child, and I caught it during my first school cross-country run in the park at the end of my street. Immediately afterwards, I joined the local athletics club and the starting shot was fired for a career as an athlete. Many worn-out running shoes later, I have Belgian and European medals in my pocket, as well as experience at international championships. Now, with a lot of passion and ambition, I am working towards my next goals.


My discipline

Marathon -> Runners' Lab Athletics Team (team), Topsport Defence (employer) & Olympic Essenbeek Halle (athletics club)


Number of hours’ training per week

14 hours

 

"We are what we repeatedly do.
Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit"

My favourite Etixx products

I use the Etixx Recovery Shake Pro Line. Always been satisfied with it. Goes in smoothly, is tasty and does not lie on the stomach. I already used the Iron 125 AA as an iron supplement during altitude training. Also already experience with Magnesium 2000 AA.

In addition, I also frequently use the Isotonic Drink Energy Gel, Isotonic Drink, Multimax, Caffeine Energy Shot and the High Protein Sport Bar.


Why are you satisfied that Etixx has become the new sports nutrition partner of the Runners' lab Athletics Team?

I am convinced of the quality of the product range and have already had good experiences with some of the products. Just like within our team, the scientific approach is very important to you. The guarantee of doping-free products is also a must. I also immediately noticed your personal approach with the ambassadors (team day, whatsapp group,...). That is why I am fully committed to our cooperation!


My greatest sporting achievements 

  • 2 x silver at European Championships 5000m (U20 in 2015 & U23 in 2017)
  • 13th at European Championships 10000m seniors (Munich 2022)

 

My personal records

  • 50000m: 13:23.58 
  • 10000m: 27:48.00
  • Half marathon: 1h01:48.00

 

My #GiveItYourAll moment in 2024

  • European half marathon Rome


My social media

Discover more ambassadors

Ambassador Fleur Hooyberghs image
Belgium
Fleur Hooyberghs

Athletics - Pole Vault

I am Fleur, 23 years old, pole vaulter and physiotherapy student. I have been on the athletics track since I was 6 years old. At 15, I specialised in pole vaulting. Sport is my hobby and my passion. I am a competitive animal, love to push my physical limits and I am driven to reach my goals. Besides the athletics track, you can also find me among my school books, on the racing bike or in a cosy coffee bar. Etixx products support me to perform optimally during busy training and competition periods and thus further pursue my goals.

Read more
Ambassador Thomas De Bock image
Belgium
Thomas De Bock

Athletics (marathon)

Hello, I am Thomas De Bock, 31 years old and working as a doctoral student at the research group of sports management at UGent. In between working hours I run a lot of kilometres, mostly in preparation of a marathon. In the past, I have already tasted European and World Championships but I still have two major goals in my athletics career, namely to run under 2h10 at the marathon and qualifying for the Olympic marathon in 2024.

Read more
Ambassador Manuela Soccol image
Belgium
Manuela Soccol

Trail running and ultrarunning

Enjoying life is very important to me so family time, travelling, foodies but definitely running are my priorities. I can also combine my running story with the rest so that is definitely a plus.

Read more