Ironman World C'ship: Vincent Tiew, Syed Saddiq Lead Malaysia's Challenge

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Dr Vincent Tiew, a leading figure in property development, has described his involvement in the Ironman series as a reflection of the discipline and strategy needed when spearheading any organisation.

Vincent, who is one of Malaysia's representatives at the 2025 Ironman World Championship in Nice, France, on Sept 14, admitted that his interest in triathlon began during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period in 2022, with him honing his skills in swimming and cycling.

He said the experience he gained from the training helped him immensely in terms of teaching him about discipline as well as elevating his focus and his mental and physical fitness.

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 According to him, that approach aligned with the business and corporate fields, which also require mental endurance and continuous focus to achieve success.

"So, I think triathlon is a great fit for me because my temperament, attitude and personal development are the type that requires a lot of planning and discipline every day, which is very important,” he told Bernama at the sending off of two national representatives for the 2025 World Championship here today.

The other representative bound for the prestigious championship is Muar Member of Parliament Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.

Vincent, who is also the KL Wellness City executive director, said his involvement in the sport has also led to positive personal changes as he is now more in control of his emotions, lifestyle and diet than before.

Meanwhile, Syed Saddiq said he sets aside about 16 to 17 hours a week for training, with an average of two and a half hours daily, including routinely waking up at 5 am to go running, cycling or swimming.

He also integrates elements of fitness in his daily routine, including holding online meetings while carrying out indoor cycling, reading newspapers while doing half squats, and listening to podcasts while running.

"The most significant changes after being active are the ability to think more clearly, become more disciplined, wake up early, sleep early, not waste time and the ability to better handle life's pressures.

"Some people, when tested, eat more or splurge, but for me, I exercise and take part in sports to destress. So, it's been a big change in my life,” said the former Youth and Sports Minister, who is determined to end the race by carrying the Jalur Gemilang when crossing the finish line and end the race in around 13 hours, compared to the time limit of 17 hours.

Also present at the event today was Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.

-- BERNAMA