KARACHI: Two Pakistani triathletes have completed separate international long-distance triathlon competitions in China and Uzbekistan, recording strong finishes across swimming, cycling and running disciplines.
Pakistan Navy Lieutenant Shehzada Asad completed the Ironman 70.3 Dali in Dali, China, in 6 hours, 30 minutes and 41 seconds, while Lahore-based Falcon Triathlon Club athlete Jibran Javed finished the Challenge Samarkand in Uzbekistan in 5 hours, 25 minutes and 52 seconds.
Shehzada Asad completes Ironman 70.3 Dali
Shehzada Asad completed the 1.9-kilometre swimming segment in 40 minutes and 57 seconds, followed by the 90-kilometre cycling stage in 2 hours, 59 minutes and 8 seconds.
He then completed the 21.1-kilometre run in 2 hours, 30 minutes and 16 seconds.
Athletes competing in Dali covered approximately 113 kilometres across the three disciplines.
Jibran Javed completes Challenge Samarkand
Jibran Javed, who is associated with Karachi’s SVRC, completed the Challenge Samarkand in 5 hours, 25 minutes and 52 seconds, including transition time.
He completed the 1.9-kilometre swim in 40 minutes and 29 seconds, the 86-kilometre cycling stage in 2 hours, 34 minutes and 37 seconds, and the 21.5-kilometre run in 1 hour, 55 minutes and 15 seconds.
The total distance covered by Jibran, including transitions, was 109.4 kilometres.
The cycling route in Samarkand passed through a mix of historic and modern landmarks, while the four-lap running course was held around the scenic rowing canal at the Silk Road Samarkand complex.
The participation of Shehzada Asad and Jibran Javed in separate international triathlon events highlights the growing participation of Pakistani athletes in long-distance triathlon competitions.