This year, I had the privilege of leading a team of 21 athletes to Ironman Italy, a project that had been in the works for over two years. Among the group, 14 were competing in the full Ironman, while 7 were tackling the Ironman 70.3. This race was more than just a physical challenge—it was the culmination of meticulous planning, consistent training, and shared ambition.

Why Italy?

Every year, I choose an international race for my athletes, and for 2024, Italy was my top choice. Italy offers a stunning backdrop and a fast racing experience. The sea swim, with its challenging currents, the bike course filled with steep climbs, and the run through ancient European towns create an unforgettable racing atmosphere. I had raced there myself and wanted my athletes to experience the same blend of beauty and difficulty.

Preparation began a year before race day. Every training session was tailored to the specific conditions we would face in Italy. The goal wasn’t just to complete the race, but to master it. The sea, the climbs, and the history-rich run course were challenges I wanted my athletes to conquer—not just endure.

Racing as a Team: The Power of Shared Sacrifice and Triumph

Triathlon is often a lonely sport, demanding everything from an athlete—physically, mentally, and emotionally. But this race was different because we faced it as a team. Our Ironman Italy contingent was a diverse group, with athletes from all walks of life, hailing from all corners of India. We had teachers, doctors, bankers, lawyers, artists, students, engineers, and entrepreneurs—eight different cities represented, all united by one goal: crossing the finish line in Italy.

Training for an Ironman is often a solitary pursuit, but this team found strength in unity. We started logistics planning in January and began training together online on virtual platforms, simulating the Ironman course. For hours at a time—sometimes 5-6 hours or more—we cycled together virtually, forming bonds that transcended the sport. These sessions not only built physical strength but also instilled the belief that we could conquer this monumental challenge together.

As a coach, it was thrilling to see how these individuals, once strangers, became a tribe. They realized they weren’t alone in their pursuit of greatness. By the time we arrived in Italy, we were no longer just individuals racing solo—we were a team, bound by shared experiences and a common goal.

Race Day Conditions

Race day presented its own unique challenges. Getting two dozen humongous bike boxes across continents is no small feat, but thanks to careful planning and experience, this was one of the most seamless airline check-ins I’ve ever had. Having been to more than 25 Ironmans, the one thing I always dread is traveling with bikes. But I ensured that the airlines were notified well in advance and chose those with good records of handling bikes. Amazingly, none of us had any issues at check-in, nor did we have to pay anything extra—a rare feat for a group this size. Even getting visas sorted was smooth, with no rejections, which felt like a victory before we had even arrived.

However, when we landed in Italy, we were greeted by storms. From Tuesday to Friday, it rained non-stop, and the cold weather was something my athletes weren’t accustomed to. We couldn’t train in those conditions, and we barely had time to test the bikes after assembling them. The sea was far too rough for swimming. On Friday, I finally took the athletes into the water despite the huge 2-3 meter waves. The anxiety was palpable, especially among the slower swimmers who were worried about just surviving in those conditions.

To ease the tension, I rented a car and took the entire team on a route reconnaissance of the bike course. This visualization is a tradition of mine, one of the most important tools in preparing for race day. Knowing the course, the climbs, the descents—it’s all part of being mentally prepared for what’s ahead. Along the way, we stopped at vineyards and salt pans, giving the team a chance to soak in the beautiful Italian countryside, a brief respite before the race-day intensity.

Finally, the storm broke, and Saturday—the full Ironman race day—dawned in picture-perfect conditions. The sun was out, and the sea had calmed. Even Sunday, when the half Ironman took place, was equally perfect. I was there from the start to the end, from 5 a.m. until well past midnight on Saturday, and the whole of Sunday, ensuring that every one of my athletes finished.

The Role of the Coach

2024 marks my 10th year of coaching, and in that time, I’ve grown tremendously as a coach and as a person. Over the years, I’ve realized that my role goes far beyond just providing physical training. I’ve had to be a guide, a mentor, a counselor, a mechanic, a tour guide, a driver, a cheerleader, a translator, and most importantly, a
friend.

On race day, I knew that my presence on the course was crucial. For many of my athletes, just seeing their coach at key points in the race was a massive psychological boost. I spent those long hours interacting with them as they ran, offering words of encouragement during those make-or-break moments. It was in these exchanges that I witnessed their resolve—to push through, dig deep, and ultimately win not just against the race, but against life’s challenges.

A Perfect Finish

In the end, all 21 athletes crossed the finish line, and nothing could have made me prouder. From the logistical challenges to the stormy weather, to the long months of preparation and the race itself, Ironman Italy was a triumph. As a coach, I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. This project, two years in the making, was a perfect success—a testament to the power of careful planning, shared sacrifice, and the unstoppable will of a determined team.

Chaitanya Velhal is a renowned endurance athlete, sports scientist, coach, and two- time TEDx speaker. He excels in ultra-cycling, triathlons, and scientific training. As a multiple-time Ironman finisher and record-holding ultra-cyclist, Chaitanya has claimed prestigious titles like the Deccan Cliffhanger and Desert 500.

Through his PowerPeaks- Athlete Lab, Chaitanya has coached over 900 athletes globally, delivering personalized, data-driven training programs. His holistic approach, integrating sports nutrition, strength training, and biomechanics, ensures athletes reach personal bests injury-free.

Chaitanya has also led some of India’s largest contingents to Oceanman and Ironman events worldwide, with a near-100% success finish rate every time. And also holds the record for coaching some of the oldest, fastest & youngest athletes in the country. Specializing in ultra-distance swimming, running, and cycling, he is committed to elevating athletes in all aspects of endurance sports.