Bishworjit Saikhom, Ironman 70.3 Goa defending champion.
Photo Credits: The Goan
PANAJI
Army man, Bishworjit Saikom (32) of Manipur, defending champion of the IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2019 race expects tougher competition when he comes to defend his title this year.
The second edition of the gruelling endurance event being organised by Yoska with the support of the Government of Goa will take place in Panaji on November 13. The IRONMAN 70.3 race requires triathletes to complete a swim-bike-run routine of 113 kms in eight and half hours (1.9km swimming+90kms cycling + 21kms running).
In a media release issued by the organisers, Bishworjit said, “I expect tougher competition to defend my title this year. I want to do well to get selected for the IRONMAN World Championships next year.”
Hailing from a small hamlet near Imphal, Bishworjit took up triathlon inspired by his older brother at age 17. At that stage, Bishworjit did not possess a cycle and that is why he trained very hard to win a triathlon race in Hyderabad which promised a cycle to the winner.
The army soldier attributes his prowess in triathlons to the training opportunities available in the Indian Army. “I began practising with the Army’s cycling and track and field teams. Triathlon is a tough sport and mental support from family and friends is also necessary,” Bishworjit said.
Bishworjit, who presently trains in Imphal, is of the opinion that the awareness for the sport of IRONMAN triathlon has grown in India since he last won the race in 2019. The defending champion plans to arrive in Goa, a good 10 days in advance to familiarise himself with the weather and the swim-bike-run routes.
