Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, July 26: Jammu Boys’ “Iron Tribe” has made an indelible mark on the global endurance sports arena with their formidable performance at the IRONMAN Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain.
Aman Gupta, Archit Puri, Sawan Nagpal and Sukaran Raj Sharma, the Iron Tribe exhibited unparalleled resolve and prowess in the prestigious international competition.
The Iron Tribe, the only registered Tri club in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Leh, undertook the full IRONMAN challenge, a grueling triathlon featuring a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike ride, and a 42.2 km marathon. The swim unfolded in the pristine Landa Lake, where the temperate waters proved ideal for wetsuits, ensuring an optimal aquatic performance. Although Sawan Nagpal encountered a regrettable mishap during the cycling segment, impeding his completion of the event, the remaining Iron Tribe members showcased remarkable tenacity and teamwork.
The IRONMAN Vitoria-Gasteiz was blessed with perfect meteorological conditions, which fostered an ideal environment for the athletes. The spirited support from the local populace added an electrifying atmosphere to the event, with enthusiastic spectators bolstering the athletes’ morale throughout the race. Archit Puri highlighted the critical impact of this local support, which significantly elevated the competitors’ performance.
The marathon segment, comprised of three loops totaling 42.2 km, was imbued with the fervent encouragement of the local crowd. The Iron Tribe deeply appreciated the outstanding support from hydration stations and the rousing cheers from spectators, which greatly enriched their racing experience.
As a premier event attracting elite athletes of 15 countries from around the globe, IRONMAN Vitoria-Gasteiz showcased a high caliber of sportsmanship and excellence. The Iron Tribe not only demonstrated their extraordinary athletic capabilities but also served as proud ambassadors of Jammu on this illustrious stage.
Looking forward, the Iron Tribe aspires to galvanize more individuals to pursue endurance sports, including ultra-cycling and ultra-marathons. Their mission is to spotlight Jammu’s sporting prowess and offer a platform for athletes to showcase their talents on the international stage.
“Though it’s an Olympic sport, it’s very challenging and costly, so not many from Jammu and Kashmir or India participate. We worked hard for a year and received great support from local clubs in Jammu. We hope to inspire more people to take up endurance sports,” said Aman Gupta. In reflecting upon their triumphs, the Iron Tribe extends profound gratitude to their families, friends, and supporters.
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