SEMATAN: Completing a triathlon on Father’s Day made this year’s Borneo Triathlon 100 extra special for Christopher Sia, who credited his family as the driving force behind his endurance challenge.
The experienced triathlete said balancing training with work and family commitments remains one of the toughest aspects of the sport.
Despite battling heavy rain and strong winds, Sia successfully crossed the finish line and described the experience as a memorable one.
“It was very difficult, but I’m very happy. This year’s Borneo Triathlon 100 was nicely done and I’m very impressed. I hope to see more to come in the future,” he told Sarawak Tribune at Sematan Palm Beach Resort after completing the race today (June 21).
Sia, who competed in the B100 Individual category comprising a 1.5km swim, 80km bike ride and 18.5km run, said the weather conditions proved to be the biggest challenge of the day.
“It was fine until the heavy rain and the heavy wind. That totally messed up everything,” he said.
Competing on Father’s Day made the occasion even more meaningful as he was accompanied by his wife, Joey Kwang, and their son, who were there to support him throughout the event.
Asked whether his family was his biggest source of motivation, Sia’s answer was immediate.
“Yes, of course, definitely,” he said.
Kwang said it was their first time watching him compete in a triathlon and described the experience as a memorable one.
“This is our first time seeing him do a triathlon, so it’s interesting being able to see him and track him along the way,” she said.
Sia, who hopes to continue participating in future events, admitted preparing for triathlons can be demanding.
“My training is on and off because we have my son growing up, so it’s very difficult to juggle work and family commitments. Training for this is very time-consuming and very energy-consuming,” he said.
Sia also encouraged other fathers to take up the sport.
“Just come and try, and Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers out there,” he said.
