SMPL
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], October 9: In a breathtaking display of human endurance, 41-year-old Sailee Wagh Gangakhedkar of Pune has etched her name into the annals of Indian sports history. Defying age and expectations, Gangakhedkar blazed through the grueling Ironman Triathlon in Frankfurt, Germany, shattering the national record with a jaw-dropping time of 12 hours and 26 minutes. This Herculean feat not only crowns her as the fastest Indian woman ever to conquer the Ironman, but also breaks a five-decade drought for Indian women in this ultimate test of athletic prowess. Gangakhedkar’s triumph resonates far beyond the finish line, igniting a new era of possibility for endurance athletes across the subcontinent.
The Ironman Triathlon, a globally recognized endurance event, includes a 3.8 km swim, 180.2 km bike ride, and 42.2 km marathon run. Participants must complete the race within 15 hours, and Sailee’s timing of 12:26 puts her among the top female triathletes in the country.
Reflecting on her achievement, Sailee said, “It’s a dream come true. This race is not just about endurance; it’s about pushing your limits. I hope my journey encourages more women to embrace endurance sports and realize their potential.”
Sailee’s success story is built on a foundation of perseverance and discipline. As a Chartered Accountant, mother, and athlete, she has managed to balance her professional and personal life with her passion for triathlons. “My family and the Athlete Community in Pune has been my biggest support, allowing me to pursue my dreams without hesitation,” Sailee said, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system in achieving her goals.
She began her fitness journey in 2014, when her corporate lifestyle started affecting her health. After taking up running to improve her fitness, Sailee transitioned into triathlons, quickly rising in the ranks of India’s endurance sports community.
Her first Ironman race in Barcelona, Spain clocked in at 13 hours and 23 minutes. Determined to improve, Sailee dedicated herself to intense training, focusing on swimming, cycling, and running techniques. Her commitment paid off at the Frankfurt IronMan, where she set a personal best and broke the National Record.
Sailee faced the Frankfurt Ironman’s savage onslaught of treacherous cobblestones, lung-burning climbs, and bone-chilling winds. She attacked the 3.8 km swim, emerging in a stunning 1 hour and 11 minutes, obliterating her personal best. Undaunted by the 180.2 km cycling gauntlet of slick roads and punishing hills, Sailee powered through in an impressive 6 hours and 18 minutes, her iron determination matching her bike’s relentless pace.
The marathon, however, unleashed its own cruel twist. After a blistering start, Sailee’s IT band rebelled at the 20 km mark, threatening to derail her heroic effort. But defeat wasn’t in her vocabulary. Gritting her teeth against the pain, she adapted on the fly – strategic ice stops became her pit crew, and run-walk intervals her secret weapon. Through sheer force of will, Sailee crushed the marathon in 4 hours and 38 minutes, defying her body’s screaming protests. “It was tough, but my goal was to finish strong. I’m incredibly proud of this achievement,” she shared.
Sailee Gangakhedkar, fresh off her record-breaking Ironman performance in Frankfurt, has her sights set on qualifying for the prestigious Boston Marathon. Alongside her personal goals, she is dedicated to inspiring and mentoring aspiring female athletes, encouraging them to embrace endurance sports. “Endurance sports have taught me discipline, mental strength, and perseverance, which have transformed my life. I want to help more women break barriers,” Sailee shared.
Beyond her achievements, she is committed to growing the endurance sports community in India.Sailee’s journey from corporate professional to elite triathlete is a powerful testament to the impact of dedication and passion.
Follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coffeeride_triathlete for more updates on her inspiring journey and future accomplishments.
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