Politicians Tejasvi Surya and K. Annamalai also crossed the finish line, joining global athletes in Goa’s premier endurance race
Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov and the United Kingdom’s Ellie Garrett claimed the top titles at IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025, delivering standout performances in the fifth edition of India’s premier endurance race. The event began at sunrise on Miramar Beach, where senior officials, race organisers, and ambassadors set the athletes on their way. More than 1300 participants from 31 countries took on the challenge, strengthening Goa’s growing reputation as a leading destination for long-distance triathlon in Asia.
Belousov dominated the men’s field with a time of 4:25:47, pulling clear during the bike and holding firm through the closing run. Garrett delivered an equally commanding effort to secure the women’s crown in 5:18:43. The Indian Air Force continued its impressive streak in the relay segment, sweeping the entire podium with highly coordinated team efforts.
Competitors tackled a demanding 1.9 km swim in the Arabian Sea, followed by a 90 km ride through coastal stretches and a 21.1 km run framed by Goa’s heritage corridors. Supporters lined the course from early morning, creating a vibrant atmosphere that matched the scenic backdrop and offered a boost to tired legs during the final stages.
A notable personal moment unfolded as Garrett raced alongside her husband, Tom Garrett, who placed eighth overall in 4:51:37. The couple, seasoned triathletes with decades of combined experience, chose to race in Goa for its setting and community spirit. Both described the course as tough yet deeply rewarding, highlighting the uplifting crowd support and the warm reception they experienced throughout their stay.
Olympian swimmer and coach Sandeep Sejwal added star presence to the relay category, racing with colleagues from the Inspire Institute of Sport. Among the individual finishers were Member of Lok Sabha Tejasvi Surya and K. Annamalai, who successfully completed the course and joined a small group of Indian politicians who hold the IRONMAN title.
The weekend also celebrated young talent, with more than 900 children participating in the Policybazaar IRONKIDS race, adding enthusiasm and momentum to an already spirited event.
