Glenn gets bronze in Indonesia

Local tri- and duathlete Glenn Macnamara recently returned from completing the Bintan Triathlon in Indonesia.

Macnamara, a resident of Allen’s Nek, is an ambassador for the Paige Project which is a charity that assists underprivileged children with cerebral palsy.

This was his first international competition for 2016.

“This race is a very prestigious race in Asia and enjoys huge support and coverage in that area. I have been planning to do this event for at least three years,” said Macnamara.

“I chose the event because it is hot, humid and hilly which makes the racing very tough and demanding but they are conditions I often thrive in.”

He explained how there were 2000 athletes in the water at the same time, which made it difficult to find a smooth line to swim. In other races, athletes go off in groups according to their times.

“The competitors were particularly aggressive in the water. My ankles got pulled on a few occasions in an attempt to stop me swimming,” added Macnamara.

Despite the disappointing swim, he felt surprisingly upbeat and optimistic as he began the bike journey. This is where Macnamara shone brightly and passed other athletes early in the ride.

“I started very well and passed a group of 10 athletes early on. The heat really hit me suddenly at about 4km into the race. I was trying desperately to catch another large group of athletes ahead of me.”

After 7km into the run, he felt elated that his persistence and patience had paid off.

“I hung on and hung with all I could till the end. I was exhausted and drained. I was really pleased to learn I had finished 3rd.”

An excited Macnamara said, “It was, without a doubt, one of the most demanding races I have ever done. The race itself was an emotional one for me for a number of reasons.”