On October 7, 2023, three alumni from the Kendriya Vidyalaya Class of 1994 took on the challenge of the Goa Ironman 70.3 in the relay category, with the shared ambition of tackling the event individually the following year. The trio—Rishikesh Patankar, Captain Abhineel Rai, and Ameet Kawle—spent months of rigorous training to turn this dream into reality.
Rishikesh Patankar, 48, an employee at the National Skill Development Corporation in New Delhi, achieved the individual feat with remarkable style. After completing the Kolhapur Loh Purush 70.3 in September 2024, Rishikesh went on to conquer the Goa Ironman 70.3 solo. He successfully navigated the 1.9 km swim in the Arabian Sea, cycled 90 km over the new Zuari Bridge, and ran a half marathon along the scenic Miramar to Dona Paula stretch, all in 7 hours and 46 minutes. His training included early-morning sessions in Greater Noida, supported by his Cyclo-Cross group, and frequent swims at Talkatora Pool in Delhi before work.
The commitment was not without sacrifices—giving up favorite foods, social events, and personal pleasures. Rishikesh also inspired his 15-year-old son, Varad, to take up triathlon, with Varad completing a 500-meter swim, 10 km bike ride, and 5 km run at the Greater Noida Triathlon, and later participating in the IronKids 2024 event in Goa. Rishikesh believes in encouraging others, especially younger generations, to embrace sports for a healthier, more active future.
Captain Abhineel Rai, a seasoned Indian Air Force helicopter pilot with over 25 years of service, proved that age is no barrier when he completed the Goa Ironman 70.3 in 2024 at 48 years old. Despite the physical and mental challenges of the 1.9 km swim, 90 km bike ride, and 21.1 km run, Captain Abhineel drew on his military training and completed the race in 6 hours and 56 minutes. “This was a dream come true,” said Captain Abhineel. “As a pilot, I navigate turbulent skies, but this was a different kind of challenge. The sense of accomplishment is indescribable.” His achievement is a testament to resilience and determination, inspiring both fellow athletes and military colleagues. Captain Abhineel also encouraged his 12-year-old son, Adhyayan, to join him in the experience, with Adhyayan completing the 2 km IronKids run in Goa. Following his father’s example, Adhyayan took part in a triathlon event at Balewadi Stadium in Pune, where he completed a 500-meter swim, 10 km bike ride, and 5 km run.
Ameet Kawle, a dedicated banker with over 20 years of experience, showed that passion and perseverance can yield extraordinary results. On October 27, 2024, Ameet participated in the Goa Ironman 70.3 relay, taking on the 90 km cycling and 21.1 km running legs. Despite his demanding 12-14 hour workdays, Ameet managed to stay committed to his fitness routine, proving that it’s possible to balance a career and personal health. He credits his success to the continuous support of his family, friends, and colleagues, considering it the ultimate birthday gift to himself. Although Ameet didn’t have enough time to train for the swim, he enlisted the help of his friend, Commodore Malay Kukreti (Retd.), a former Indian Navy marine commando, to complete the swim leg. Together, they formed a dynamic “two-man army” team.
As a group, Rishikesh, Captain Abhineel, and Ameet from the Kendriya Vidyalaya Class of 1994 not only achieved their individual goals at the 2024 Goa Ironman 70.3 but also set a powerful example of perseverance, fitness, and the pursuit of dreams. Their sons, Varad and Adhyayan, are now inspired to take on the Ironman 70.3 challenge themselves when they turn 18. This inspiring journey serves as a reminder to others to push beyond their limits, embrace new challenges, and live a life of endurance and fulfillment. For these athletes, an Ironman 70.3 is not just a race; it’s a transformative experience—one of personal growth, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.