The triangle race
Swimming, cycling, running. This is the “triangle race,” called the triathlon. Triathletes compete with each other to achieve first place through a grueling, three part race. This is not your average sport. This sport requires stamina beyond measure and an iron will to compete.
What do you do in this sport? First, the triathlete must swim over 2.5 km in freezing water. Then the athlete must cycle at least 120 km. Finally, the triathlete must run over 30 km to finish the race. It is as hard and exhausting as it sounds. This whole process takes an average professional triathlete up to 8 hours to finish the race. Where and when did this grueling sport start? Historians believe that triathlon started in France in 1920. Participants of this newfound sport competed in a multi-staged sport annually. The modern “Ironman” triathlon we are familiar with started in California, in 1974. From there, the triathlon received enough popularity and momentum to be considered as an Olympic sport. Now in the 21st century, it is often a common place for entrepreneurs to host triathlon races in cities all over the world. In fact, there is even a professional, global triathlon race that is set to be hosted in Incheon in July this year in 2015. “I believe that a triathlon is all about diligence and persistency,” said Park Byung Hoon, the host of the Incheon race, who also holds the Asian record time. “The sport is all about not giving up, even in the toughest situations.” Park Byung Hoon scored the Asian record time of 8 hours, 28 minutes and 51 seconds, 30 minutes, faster than the closest competitor. Although he is now retired from his professional athlete career, he is still teaching his apprentices and are helping them to pursue their dreams of becoming better than their mentor. The triangle race is different from other mainstream sports, in many different ways. This sport requires diligence, stamina and the willingness to continue on in this absolutely grueling sport. The question is, are you up for this sport? |
STORY :: JAMES PARK
EDITOR :: JONATHAN LEE DESIGN :: SEAN JS LEE Pace making is a key element to maintain your stamina to win a triathlon race. Photograph courtesy of Triradar
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