For most people, endurance sports like triathlons and marathons may seem like insurmountable challenges, reserved for athletes with years of training. However, for a growing number of Indians, these hardcore sporting events have become a way to push personal boundaries, overcome obstacles, and embrace a lifestyle of discipline and resilience. From first-time Ironman participants to marathoners defying physical limitations, such newbie athletes share inspiring stories of grit and passion required to thrive in the world of extreme sports. Here’s a look at four individuals who have turned pushing limits into a way of life.
At 41, Diya Nayar completed her first-ever Ironman 70.3 race in Turkey this year, representing India in the 41–44 age category. That she learned to cycle only in 2020 may come as a surprise to many. She mastered long-distance swimming in 2022. Balancing a full-time job, she dedicated six months of rigorous training to prepare for the race, rising at 4 AM for early morning sessions five to six times a week.
The Ironman 70.3 triathlon involves swimming 1.9 km, cycling 90 km, and running 21.1 km within 8 hours and 30 minutes. Nayar’s strategy included well-balanced home-cooked meals, prioritising hydration and protein intake, and maintaining electrolyte levels while training during peak summer.
“I think I’ve always been an adrenaline junkie, constantly searching for the next challenge. I only learned to cycle when my husband, Sachin, bought me my first cycle in 2020. I promised him I’d learn before his birthday,” said Nayar. You need to embrace the unknown—where’s the fun if you know how your story is going to end?”
Shanay Shah
Shanay participating in Ironman (Source: Shanay Shah)
Shanay Shah, 34, an advocate at the Bombay High Court, despite his hectic schedule and demanding work hours, completed three Olympic-distance triathlons and two full marathons. This year, Shah participated in Ironman Turkey 70.3 in Antalya and Ironman Goa last year in October.
An asthmatic, Shah drew motivation from those who doubted his ability to take on endurance activities. “Asthma became my driving force. People said it was dangerous, but that only fueled my determination,” Shah said. His preparation included home-cooked meals supplemented by juices, salads, and protein, as well as a strict, coach-curated training schedule.
Shah’s typical week comprised two runs, two bike rides, two swims, and a strength session. “Endurance events test your mental strength. Learning to understand the science of the sport, staying patient, and replicating training sessions on race day helped me immensely,” he said. Despite challenges, such as sleep deprivation due to balancing work and training, Shanay said that staying calm and listening to his body gave him a crucial edge.
Akshay Aiyar
Akshay running the marathon (Source: Akshay Aiyar)
For Akshay Aiyar, 32, who works in the alco-bev industry, running is about consistency and commitment. “Showing up every day is the most important thing,” Aiyar said. Having participated in major events like VDHM Delhi, TCSW10 Bangalore, and TMM Mumbai, he believes training is key to performing better on race day.
His preparation involves a 10–16 week block of running four to five times a week, including easy runs, speed work, and long runs. “Hitting my protein goals is a priority, though I struggle with other aspects of my diet,” Aiyar said. With Mumbai’s erratic weather, he starts training at 6 AM, and wraps it up by 7.30 AM, to beat the heat and traffic.
Dalip Singh Sabharwal
Dalip participating in HCL Cylcothon. (Source: Dalip Singh Sabharwal)
Bicycle Mayor Dalip Singh Sabharwal began his running journey at 32, in 2017, after being inspired by senior citizens completing the Delhi Half Marathon. With only 40 days to train for the One Race Super Sikh Run Half Marathon, Dalip adopted a creative approach.
As someone who was not a runner at all, attempting to run 21.1 kilometers in less than a month was certainly a daunting challenge. “I walked to work every morning, an eight-kilometer stretch, and alternated between walking, jogging, and running on my way back. Evenings were dedicated to running for one to two hours,” Sabharwal said.
His advice for beginners? “Resisting peer pressure. Pursue your goals only if they truly resonate with you, and always pay attention to what your body is telling you. Avoid unnecessary competition, as we all have unique bodies with distinct requirements. Focus on workouts that align with your individual needs. Our goal should be to maintain overall fitness and health—not just physically, but mentally as well,” he said.
Nayar’s parting words to anyone who’s on the fence today is to “just go for it,” “because, if you want it bad enough, you will do it.”
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