The story of Avinash Kushwaha’s incredible transformation is nothing short of inspiring. At 37, he decided to take charge of his life, combat unhealthy habits, and face down the challenges that came with his lifestyle. We started this journey together just 1.5 years ago, with Avinash learning to swim from scratch. Today, I can proudly say that he completed the Ultra Oceanman race—a 25km open water swim in Sicily, Italy. This blog shares his journey and the hard work that went into achieving something that seemed almost impossible.
A New Beginning
Avinash had been struggling with the effects of a stressful lifestyle—overworking, unhealthy habits, and significant weight gain. He was facing serious health issues, and it was clear that he needed a radical change. When we began, the goal was not just to train for a race but to rebuild his life from the ground up. This included proper nutrition, a comprehensive strength and conditioning plan, and ultimately, triathlon training that pushed him beyond his limits.
Swimming was, by far, his biggest weakness. Open water terrified him, and even though he had physical challenges—such as a stiff ankle with a rod placed in it five years ago—he was determined to push through. Our work was tough, but Avinash’s spirit was unbreakable. We achieved great milestones together, including Ironman Barcelona and a full marathon, and this led him to his next big goal: Ultra Oceanman.
Conquering His Fear: Ultra Oceanman
Avinash chose Ultra Oceanman because he wanted to transform his swimming, his biggest weakness, into a strength. Before attempting the 25km race in Sicily, we took on the Oceanman Bali, where he swam 10km—an achievement that, at the time, felt monumental.
We began ramping up his training in January, focusing on swimming and strength work. However, a grueling 10km lake swim test didn’t go well—it was slow, exhausting, and it seemed like the 25km distance might be out of reach. Yet, I knew that with more time and the right training, we could make it happen. Coaching instincts kicked in, and I postponed the Ultra Oceanman race to Italy in September, allowing us to put in the necessary work.
Preparation in Goa: A Key Milestone
After the challenging lake swim, I brought Avinash down to Goa for intensive training. I designed an 18km route that took him from Bambolim out to São Jacinto Island and back along the Zuari Bridge. I stayed alongside him in the boat, managing his nutrition and pacing, which was crucial for the upcoming race. We completed the swim in just over seven hours—a huge confidence boost. Not only was Avinash comfortable in the water, but he also had his nutrition and pacing dialed in, without any gastrointestinal distress.
The Race in Sicily
We arrived in Sicily five days before the race. Coming straight from the Ironman Italy in the north, I met Avinash and his wife Preeti, who was key in helping us stay healthy by preparing all our meals at the rental apartment. The conditions leading up to the race were challenging, with rough waters during our practice swims. Yet, we pressed on, adapting and preparing.
Race day started early at 4 am. I was on the boat with our captain, Julian—a lively young man who didn’t speak English but turned out to be exactly the right guy for the job. The sea was calm at first, but within an hour, strong winds and big waves slowed us down. Despite the harsh conditions, we stuck to the plan. Every 30 minutes, I fed Avinash, monitored his pace, checked the weather, and made sure he was safe—all while battling seasickness myself.
What made the experience even more special was the environmental consciousness we maintained throughout. During the race, we collected two huge bags of sea trash, doing our part to protect the beautiful waters we swam in.
Crossing the Finish Line
With the storms continuing, I wasn’t sure we would make the 10-hour cutoff. But Avinash pushed through, digging deep in the last hour to power through the final waves. With 20 minutes to spare, he crossed the finish line. I had the honor of giving him his medal—a moment that was more satisfying than any race I’ve ever coached.
This race was one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences of my career. It reinforced my belief in the power of hard work, scientific training, and mental resilience. Avinash’s journey, from someone who feared the water to completing one of the most challenging open water swims, is a testament to the limitless potential within all of us.
Looking Ahead
Avinash and I are already planning something even more audacious for next year. Stay tuned for the next chapter in his remarkable journey.
About Coach Chaitanya
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.