Episode 9: Cairns Ironman 70.3 Debrief Join Ursula and The Beast as they hit the road to travel North to compete in Cairns. They recount their intense experiences competing in Cairns Ironman 70.3, navigating brutal swim conditions, punishing bike winds, and emotional moments on the race course. Learn about their highlights, surprises, and lessons from one of the toughest Cairns Ironman courses to date. Main Topics: Race Day Conditions: the rough ocean swim and headwinds on the bike Personal Performance: swim improvements, bike struggles, and running resilience Race Support & Community: volunteers, supporters, and inspiring athlete stories In this episode: The unforgettable Mossman River float adventure as a travel highlight Challenges faced during the swim, including rough waves and low visibility water The impact of challenging weather, wind, and rain on the bike leg, and the mental toughness required Transition experiences, including delays, scheduled mental breakdowns, and lessons learned Achieving a personal best in the swim despite tough conditions The importance of community support, including the role of volunteers and fellow athletes Inspirational stories from fellow competitors like First Nations athlete Nadine Hunt and recovery stories of women overcoming health hurdles Reflecting on race organization, course beauty, and future goals Timestamps: 01:00 - Race overview and Cairns trip highlights 02:10 - Floating down Mossman River experience 03:18 - Travel adventures, delays, and lessons learned from road trip 10:00 - Pre-race swim at Palm Cove and water conditions 14:00 - Race day morning: logistics, support, and nerves 16:22 - Inspiring stories from fellow athletes overcoming health challenges 22:20 - Swim details: conditions, struggles, and personal best 35:30 - Bike course, scenery, and weather challenges 46:50 - The run, personal times, and reflections on performance 57:08 - Shout Outs Links: Mossman river float https://backcountrybliss.com.au/ Scope Chiropractic Runners Strength and Mobility Program https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/workout-plan/program/rothenberg-program-1685761133 Ironman Cairns https://www.ironman.com/races/im-cairns Special Mentions & Athlete Shout-outs: Nadine Hunt, First Nations athlete and Kona qualifier Fran, inspiring comeback story after cycling accident Supporters, volunteers, and family members who made race days special Note: This episode captures intense physical challenges, emotional insights, and community spirit—perfect for inspiring any endurance athlete or race enthusiast. Send your “Age Group Ask” questions or your “Shout Outs” to hottubtrimachine@gmail.com. Follow Hot Tub Tri Machine (https://www.hottubtrimachine.au/) on Spotify, Apple Podcast and our instagram page. Music made with Suno; Graphics made with Chat gpt; Recording and editing in Riverside.fm and Garageband We are not affiliated with and have received no goods and/or services for any comments or recommendations made within the podcast.
