30/07/2026
IRONMAN Desaru Coast 70.3 2026 race recap
Final Time: 6:01:39
π (1km β shortened due to rough π):
23:38 | 2:15/100m
The chop made sighting tricky, but I stayed calm and got through without wasting energy.
π΄(90km):
3:09:22 | 29.1 km/h avg | 159W avg | π 154
Felt smooth and steady throughout. I had more to give but consciously held back to save legs for the run. Pacing and nutrition worked well.
π (21.1km):
2:22:59 | 6:49/km avg | π 156
Kept a consistent rhythm thanks to the cool weather. No major fade, no wall β just steady grinding. Legs held up better than expected.
The Bigger Picture: Balancing It All
This race was more than just a 70.3. It was a victory over logistics. Since my last 70.3, life has changed significantly. My work as a private dermatologist π§ββοΈ means I'm on a six-day-a-week schedule, and more often than not, I'm working on Sundays too. Juggling the demands of a busy career, quality time with my family, and the punishing training required for a half-Ironman is never easy. There are early mornings, late nights, and many kms logged alone on the road or the trainer when I would have rather been resting.
But this race was proof that itβs all possible. I'm incredibly happy to know that despite the chaos of my professional and personal life, I'm still fit enough to cover 113 kilometers and feel strong doing it.
Looking Ahead: The Full Ironman?
Crossing the finish line, I felt a surprising sense of calm. Not exhaustion, but a sense of readiness. The fact that I felt fresh throughout all three segments and had the discipline to hold back has sparked a fire in me. For the first time, I'm genuinely considering taking the plunge and tackling a full Ironman later this year. I know I have the fitness base, and more importantly, I have the mental fortitude. The question isn't whether I can finish, but whether I can find the time and energy to commit to the training.
Final Thoughts
For me, this race was a personal milestone. It was a declaration that even with a busy schedule, you can still chase your goals. It was a performance I am proud of, and one that has given me the confidence to dream bigger. To anyone out t
