Ranked as men’s number one Great Britain’s Alistair Brownlee took two minutes out from his day to answer some quick fire questions heading into the weekend.

How have your preparations been leading in to the Grand Final?
I think things have been going ok. I recovered well after London and did a bit of training before racing the French Grand Prix in Paris. The travel was relatively smooth and it took me a few days to get over it, but I think I should be fine by the race.

Given your position in the rankings, how does that affect your race plans and mindset?
It doesn’t. I will still race to the best of my ability on the day.

As the season is drawing towards a close, how is your body holding up physically?
It seems fine. I think because I had a rest from racing after Kitzbuhel I have managed to not get too tired.

Every time you step outside to go training, what is going through your mind?
Anything, everything and nothing!

What are your personal expectations?
Just to have a good race and be content with my performance. Unfortunately this year this has become harder with every race!

What would winning the title mean to you?
Of course, it would be amazing. At the beginning of the year I did not imagine I would be in the position I am in, and I might never be again so I want to make the most of it. Being world champion is something every athlete aspires too and I think it would be very special.

How do you cope with the nerves and pressure of racing on the big stage?
I’m not sure really, I just get on and do it. I tell myself it’s only a race and the outcome doesn’t really matter but mostly I just try to enjoy it.

Your brother is racing in the junior men’s competition, what would a double Brownlee win mean to you?
It would be amazing. We have nearly managed it at the worlds last year and the Europeans this year, so to pull it off would be special. But there are a lot of obstacles in our paths and we both need a lot of luck!