One of Justin Metzler’s Best Seasons Still Included Selling Medals on eBay
Even after podium finishes, sponsorship bonuses, and one of the best seasons of his career, Justin Metzler still found himself selling medals on eBay to help cover the cost of racing professionally.
Ironman
From podium bonuses to coaching bills and travel costs, Justin Metzler’s candid financial breakdown sparked widespread conversation about the economics of professional triathlon.
Some hold the perception that once you earn your professional card, the financial side starts to take care of itself. But Justin Metzler is one of many pros who would probably tell you otherwise.
In a recent social media post titled Financial Reality of Being a Successful Professional Triathlete, Metzler pulled back the curtain on one of the strongest seasons of his career and the numbers caught people’s attention quickly.
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He shared that, in 2022, he raced eight times and landed on five professional podiums. His results included second at Ironman 70.3 Eagleman, a win at Ironman 70.3 Oregon, second at Ironman 70.3 Boulder, third at Ironman 70.3 Augusta, second at Ironman 70.3 Waco, and fourth at Ironman Lake Placid.
Across the season, Metzler said Ironman prize money totaled $19,250 USD. Sponsorship bonuses added another $17,000, bringing his combined income from podium bonuses and prize money to $36,250.
Then came the expenses.
Metzler estimated roughly $34,000 in fixed costs for the season. Coaching alone accounted for $17,200, spread across a triathlon coach, bike coach, and strength coach. Travel was estimated at approximately $1,500 per race. Add massage therapy, physical therapy, nutrition, equipment, bike fits, and other training costs and the margin quickly becomes razor thin.
The coaching figure generated perhaps the biggest reaction online. One professional athlete commented they could not believe the cost. Metzler responded candidly, saying he does not believe athletes should be paying roughly $1,500 a month for coaching, while also noting that he knows coaches charging that amount.
Another moment that caught attention came when Metzler shared selling finisher medals on eBay to help supplement income. When asked how much they sold for? “$20 to $80 bucks,” Metzler replied, adding that one buyer even asked about bulk discounts.
What resonated with many was the honesty. Metzler did not frame the lifestyle as impossible or unfair; instead, he described the amount of side work required to keep one’s career moving forward. Coaching. Building sponsor relationships. Creating content. Increasing personal value to brands. Finding additional income streams wherever possible.
Perhaps the most important part of Metzler’s post was that this was not a bad season; it was one of his best. This is what gives the numbers weight.
Professional triathlon can absolutely become a career. But it is clear that, for most athletes, the path appears to require more than podiums alone.