This year, Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Bentley, and Dale Jamieson (an ISB parent) have been brave enough to compete in the Kailua-Kona Ironman challenge in Hawaii. These 2 ISB representative have endured grueling training and a lot of hard work in order to prepare for this triathlon. I took the time to interview them and see what training they have done, and learn about their previous experiences and mentality going into the race.

The Ironman competition consists of 3 different physical aspects. Competitors start with a 2.4 mile (3.86km) swim. After the swim, they must rush to their bikes where they will cycle 112 miles (180.25 km). Of course the best is saved for last, as the final aspect of the race consists of a 26.22 mile (42.2 km) run. The world record for an Ironman challenge is 7 hours, 45 minutes and 58 seconds. The swim must be completed in 2 hours and 20 minutes, the cycle in 8 hours and 10 minutes, and the run in 6 hours and 30 minutes. This record makes the maximum time of 17 hours look like a very long time. Only 0.01% of the world’s population has managed to complete the race within this cutoff time, deeming the race to be very burdensome.

We are very lucky to have two ISB representatives, Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Bentley, competing in this year’s Ironman race. It was very interesting to talk to Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Bentley, and seeing how much they prepared for the race both physically and mentally. Mr. Bentley even biked from Kanchanaburi back to ISB — that is 150 kilometers of biking! Both of these representatives have unique but interesting stories, and to hear about their commitment.

When asked about his journey, Mr. Vaughan explains, “as a young boy, I weighed as much as I do now. I would never guess that I’d one day be able to compete in what really is the ultimate physical endurance.”  Mr. Bentley added, “in high school we had to write a senior quote when we were graduating…my quote said that I would one day compete in the Ironman race.” These two quotes are very inspiring, and it is very encouraging to see where these individuals are today, living out their goals and ambitions. This is a true example of how hard work pays off for anybody.

The work that these 2 challengers put in is admirable. If you take a walk or bike around Nichada any time in the afternoon, you can often see Mr. Bentley or Mr. Vaughan running or cycling around. This preparation is key for endurance athletes, as a triathlon like this requires an immense amount of stamina and both mental and physical strength.

Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Bentley both gave equally inspiring stories, and a great insight into what it is like to be an endurance athlete, both mentally and physically. Mr. Vaughan really showed that anything is achievable, and that he has turned into the terrific endurance athlete that he is today because of long and hard work. Mr. Bentley has demonstrated that hard work can help someone maintain great athletic ability throughout their life. As he said he was an endurance athlete in high school, and that he is able to compete in this year’s Ironman challenge because of his determination and commitment. Races like this are full of ups and downs, and heaving a strong mindset can make a world of a difference. We wish Mr. Bentley and Mr. Vaughan well in the Ironman competition! They have surely made ISB proud!