Tag: triathlon

Events in Goa

Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov and UK’s Ellie Garrett Triumph at IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The fifth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa, India began in breathtaking fashion as the sun rose over Miramar Beach, with the Hon. Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, officially flagging off the event. Alongside him were Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Deepak Raj, Race Director, Saiyami Kher, Actress and Race Ambassador, and Neil D’Silva, Event Director. The event saw more than 1,300 triathletes from 31 countries dive into the Arabian Sea to begin their quest for one of the most challenging and scenic endurance races in Asia.

Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov delivered a commanding performance to win the men’s title with a time of 4:25:47, while the United Kingdom’s Ellie Garrett claimed the women’s crown, finishing in 5:18:43. The Indian Air Force contingent dominated the relay category, sweeping all three podium positions.

The triathlon tested participants through a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycling leg, and a 21.1 km run, winding through Goa’s heritage-lined streets and coastal beauty. Thousands of spectators lined the route, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captured the energy and inclusivity of the IRONMAN spirit.

In a memorable highlight, women’s champion Ellie Garrett competed alongside her husband, Tom Garrett, who finished eighth overall. The couple, veterans of more than 30 half and 10 full-distance IRONMAN races, praised Goa’s course and community for its warmth and enthusiasm. Ellie described the race as “the hardest 70.3 I’ve ever done, but also the most stunning,” while Tom said, “The people, the place, the food, the weather — everything’s exceeded our expectations.”

Adding to the weekend’s excitement, Olympian swimmer-turned-coach Sandeep Sejwal and his colleagues from the Inspire Institute of Sport participated in the relay event, while political leaders Tejasvi Surya and K. Annamalai completed the triathlon, joining the ranks of Indian IRONMAN finishers.

The spirit of sportsmanship extended beyond the main event, with over 900 children participating in the Policybazaar IRONKIDS race, representing the promise of India’s next generation of athletes.

With participants from 62 countries across five editions, IRONMAN 70.3 Goa continues to strengthen Goa’s global identity as a hub for wellness, endurance, and world-class sporting excellence.

Events in Goa

Dr. Pramod Sawant Flags Off IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025 — A Global Celebration of Endurance and Unity

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant officially flagged off IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025, marking the beginning of India’s biggest international triathlon and a proud moment for the state of Goa. The event, now in its fifth edition, has become a symbol of endurance, camaraderie, and the spirit of global sportsmanship. This year, more than 1,300 athletes from 31 countries gathered on the scenic shores of Goa to take part in the demanding challenge that combines swimming, cycling, and running in one of the most picturesque sporting backdrops in the world.

In his address, Dr. Sawant extended a warm welcome on behalf of the people of Goa to all participants, officials, and guests who had traveled from across India and abroad. He highlighted Goa’s growing reputation as not only a leisure destination but also a center for wellness, sport, and active living. He commended the dedication and professionalism of the organisers, Yoska and the IRONMAN India team, whose tireless efforts have helped transform the event into a globally recognized sporting festival.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by several prominent figures including Shri Tejasvi Surya, Shri Annamalai, Ms. Saiyami Kher, and Shri Deepak Raj, who joined in encouraging the athletes as they embarked on the grueling challenge. Dr. Sawant expressed his admiration for every participant’s commitment and resilience, wishing them strength, focus, and determination throughout their journey.

As IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025 unfolds, it stands as a testament to the power of human endurance and the unifying force of sport, showcasing Goa’s evolution into a thriving destination that celebrates fitness, adventure, and the indomitable human spirit.

Events in Goa

Goa to Host Landmark Fifth Edition of IRONMAN 70.3 India with 1,300 Athletes from 31 Countries

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa is all set to host the landmark fifth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 GOA, India, beginning 9th November, drawing close to 1,300 participants from 31 countries. Since its inception, the event has attracted athletes from 62 nations, establishing Goa as a global destination for triathlon and endurance sports. The race, which combines a 1.9 km swim, 90 km bike ride, and 21.1 km run, challenges both amateur and professional athletes, showcasing their strength, resilience, and spirit.

Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, highlighted that hosting the event reflects Goa’s commitment to promoting itself as a hub for international sports tourism, beyond its traditional identity as a leisure destination. “The growing number of countries and athletes participating each year highlights the global confidence in Goa’s ability to deliver world-class sporting experiences,” he said.

Deepak Raj, Founder of Yoska and Country Head of IRONMAN India, expressed pride in reaching the fifth edition, noting that the journey from a handful of dreamers in 2019 to athletes from 31 nations today underscores Goa’s position as the home of IRONMAN in India. He emphasized the community and passion shown by the triathlon fraternity that has fueled this growth.

Ajay Khanna, Managing Director of Herbalife India, spoke on the alignment of the event with the brand’s values, emphasizing dedication, preparation, proper nutrition, and the celebration of fitness that goes beyond the finish line. Actor and race ambassador Saiyami Kher also shared her excitement, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges of endurance and the inspiring global community that gathers each year.

Organised by Yoska in collaboration with the Government of Goa and IRONMAN, the race will start at the Miramar beachfront, continuing its legacy as one of India’s most scenic and inclusive endurance events. Since its global inception in 1978, IRONMAN has grown into a worldwide phenomenon with over 150 events in more than 50 countries, engaging over 300,000 participants annually. Yoska, headquartered in Bengaluru, has been instrumental in bringing international fitness events to India, offering local athletes a platform for global competitive opportunities.

Sports

Goa’s Archi Katkar Wins Silver in Triathlon at National Junior Athletics Championships 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa’s rising athletic star Archi Prithviraj Katkar has brought home a proud moment for the state by winning the Silver Medal in the Triathlon (Group A) category at the 40th National Junior Athletics Championships 2025, held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Competing in the Under-14 category, Archi represented RCC Fatorda and trained under the expert mentorship of coach Patrick Soares. Her performance was marked by determination, discipline, and athletic prowess, earning her a total of 2306 points — a feat that placed her second on the national podium.

A student of Vidya Vikas Academy, Margao, Archi was part of a 13-member Goan contingent that competed across various age groups at the national championship. Her achievement not only brings individual recognition but also highlights the growing success of grassroots sports training and development in Goa.

This Silver Medal reflects the growing presence of Goan athletes at the national level, and Archi’s success serves as a motivation for aspiring young athletes across the state. Her journey from local tracks to a national stage is a testament to consistent hard work, community support, and focused coaching.

As Goa continues to invest in youth sports infrastructure and mentorship, stories like Archi’s reinforce the state’s potential to shine on the national and international stage. With continued dedication and encouragement, Archi Katkar is certainly a name to watch in Indian athletics.

Sports

Goa Aquatic Crown 2025: India’s Largest Open Water Swimming Championship to Take Place in Goa on April 19-20

allycaralgoa

Panjim, March 18 2025 – The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025, one of India’s largest Open Water Swimming Championship, is set to make waves on April 19th and 20th, 2025, at Caranzalem Beach, Goa. Organized by the Open Water Swimming Academy (OWSA) in collaboration with the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), this prestigious event is expected to attract over 500 swimmers from across India, competing in a range of 1 km, 2 km, 5 km, and 10 km races.

The announcement of this mega Championship was made in a press conference in the distinguished presence of Mr. Rahul Chiplunkar, Head of Planning & Meet Director at OWSA, Mr. Surjeet Dadiala, Head of Business at OWSA, and other prominent figures like Mr. Pawan Gupta, Nodal Officer at NIWS, Mr. Subodh Sule, Head of Routes and Pilot at OWSA, Mr. Sudesh Nagvenkar, Treasurer, Swimming Federation of India, Mr. Ranjeet Sing, NIWS, Manager Training and Mrs. Pavitra Poilkar, Director of Communications at OWSA.

With an estimated 2,000 spectators per day, this championship promises to be a landmark event in the Indian open water swimming calendar. Swimmers of all age groups, from children under 10 to seasoned athletes over 60, will showcase their endurance, skill, and passion for the sport.

Goa has long been a top travel destination, but with events like the Goa Aquatic Crown 2025, it is rapidly becoming a hub for sports tourism and endurance events. The state’s pristine coastline, well-developed infrastructure, and government support for adventure sports make it the perfect venue for high-profile swimming championships.

Mr. Surjeet Dadiala, Head of Business, OWSA – “We are committed to making Goa the epicenter of open water swimming in India. The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 is a stepping stone toward that vision. Our goal is not only to create a top-tier competitive environment but also to elevate Goa’s reputation as a global destination for open water sports.”

Mr. Subodh Sule, Head of Routes & Pilot, OWSA, added, “With participants from 13 states, this event will further solidify Goa’s position in the competitive swimming landscape. The Goa Aquatic Crown is more than just a championship; it is an opportunity to showcase the state’s growing role as a prime destination for both sports enthusiasts and tourists alike.”

Mrs. Pavitra Poilkar, Director & Head of Communication, OWSA, added, “The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 will inspire young athletes and highlight Goa’s potential as a sporting hub. This event will motivate the next generation of swimmers and athletes to take up open water swimming as a serious sport.

It’s time to dive into one of India’s most exhilarating sporting challenges! Whether you’re a seasoned open water swimmer or a first-timer seeking your next big adventure, the Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 offers an unbeatable opportunity to push your limits and compete in one of the most breathtaking swimming destinations in the world.

The event features four race categories — 1 km, 2 km, 5 km, and 10 km — catering to all levels of swimmers. This is a chance to compete alongside top athletes and push your endurance to new heights, while being surrounded by Goa’s crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal beauty. The excitement and camaraderie among participants will create an atmosphere one can never forget.

Don’t miss out! Registration is now open, with an entry fee of ₹1500 per person per event. Hurry and secure your spot before registration closes on April 13, 2025. This is your chance to be part of a landmark open water swimming event that will leave you with lasting memories and unforgettable experiences.

For registration, please visit http://www.owsaindia.com.

The Goa Aquatic Crown 2025 is set to be a thrilling competition, uniting swimmers from across the nation in a celebration of endurance, competition, and the beauty of open water swimming.