Calangute-based technology consultant Wilbert Egipsy has successfully completed the full Ironman race ( 226 kms) in Subic Bay, Philippines on Sunday, June 11.
The full Ironman race is a combination of a 3.8km open water swim, a 180km cycle ride and a full marathon (42kms) to be completed in 17 hours. The 42-year-old Egipsy completed the race in 15 hours and 44 minutes.
Egipsy, who was born in the South Goa village of Velsao, said that the race was tough and challenging as the participants had to brave light to heavy rains throughout the course.
“At least 10 triathletes gave up the race at the start of the swim stage of both the half distance and full distance Ironman races, as the sea was choppy with lots of debris floating around,” Egipsy said.
While Egipsy had a relatively easy cycle ride, he experienced many challenges in his full marathon run. “I had pain in my calf muscles at the 4km mark, my knee bagan to hurt at the 10 km mark, but I somehow pushed through with the 42km distance,” Egipsy said.
Egipsy, a seasoned triathlete has completed two, Ironman 70.3 races in Colombo and Goa, nine full marathons, two ultra marathons, four, 200km cycle rides and a five km, open sea swim race.