Team Motiv8 athlete Hitesh Makwana had a strong debut at the half-Ironman distance, his first ever triathlon event, by clocking a confident 6:49 at Ironman 70.3 Goa.

“Coach, do you think I can do Goa Ironman?”, Hitesh asked me one fine morning around 7 months ago. I asked him about his swim background. He swam well but it was many years since he had swum. Knowing that he will have to work on improving his swim stamina, along with simultaneously handling the bike and run, I asked him if he could commit to the time and effort. Upon hearing a whole-hearted YES, we embarked on training for his first ever triathlon and half-Ironman. Here are some of his thoughts about the journey:

What was the most difficult thing you faced during training?
Hitesh: The training was demanding and required a lot of discipline, time and effort. Not being able to enjoy the weekends with family and friends was the most challenging thing 😀.

How did you keep yourself motivated during training?
Hitesh: Crossing the finishing line was the only thing I would think of when I got tired during training. I would keep playing the scene in my mind repeatedly, which perhaps kept me motivated – to cross the finishing line at all costs.

What was the most difficult thing you faced on race day?
Hitesh: While I prepared for almost everything, including tides, undercurrents and jellyfish, nothing prepared me for the kicks and pulls during the swim segment. With so many swimmers around, keeping calm and overtaking slower swimmers was a considerable challenge. The second challenge was the hot and very humid weather.

What was your first though and feeling after the finish?
Hitesh: I. DID. IT! The last seven months just flashed before my eyes. All the pain and sacrifices made were worth it. I’m humbled and thankful that I was able to participate and finish. The Ironman journey has just begun.