As they gear up to tackle the challenging terrain of Ironman Switzerland, we're putting the spotlight on two of our dedicated Philadelphia Triathlon Club teammate, Tony Zebekow and Amarjit Singh. These two just raced Pennsylvania 70.3 (Happy Valley) earlier this summer and now they're about to put their dedication to the ultimate test with an Ironman in Europe!
As they prepare to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles (while doing the mental math to convert to kilometers) through the stunning Swiss landscape, we caught up with them to get a glimpse into their journey. What does it take to prepare for such an epic race? What challenges have they faced, and what have they learned along the way? Let's dive into this summer's chapter.
1 - What other full distance (140.6) races have you done prior to Switzerland?
Tony: Ironman Waco, Florida, and Lake Placid
Amarjit: IM Lake Placid and Challenge Roth
2 - Why did you pick Switzerland?
Tony: Prior to doing Lake Placid last year, I was looking up a destination race to do and Switzerland peaked my interest. When Amarjit brought it up to me, I knew it was a sign to do it and ended up registering.
Amarjit: Two reasons: An excuse to spend time with my cousins who live in Germany. Secondly, I knew that the bike course is best in the world!
3 - Speaking of best bike courses, the Switzerland Bike course is voted as the best overall bike course across all IM races with views of the three famous Alpine peaks of Eiger, Moench and Jungfrau and going through a number of villages. Being in the Swiss Alps, it will obviously be hilly. What types of training and preparation have you done for the hills? Any local spots/rides in the area that are good for hills?
Tony: Local rides like the French Creek Iron Tour, the Happy Valley 70.3 focus race, and even Hilly Philly were great events for hill training. Tempo/ Long Endurance rides on the trainer and dedicated leg days at the gym also aided in my preparation when I couldn’t get outside. West Chester Cycling Club Saturday morning group rides were also great for taking on hills, making new friends, and pushing paces.
Amarjit: I did a lot of riding with WCCC and plenty of indoor classes with Purple Patch. Also, a hilly Happy Valley 70.3 with PTC was a lot of fun despite the rain.
4 - Tell us about how this training cycle went. What have you done differently, what have you done the same, preparation races, any memorable moments?
Tony: Admittedly, I’ve had better training cycles but I think running in humidity will pay off on the bike portion and during the run. Besides that, I think this training cycle went according to plan. I don’t really have memorable moments that stand out, but this year’s focus race was great preparation for Switzerland.
Amarjit: I followed a very simple plan. Looking back, the most memorable moments are when I was able to train with so many of my friends who pushed me and also slowed me down when needed on those long runs so I could sustain my pace. I also spent two weekends getting some hill work in Lake Placid! One thing I would do differently is to avoid a business trip to India. I was gone for two weeks and did not train at all. So basically, I started tapering four weeks early. We will find out on race day!
5 - After having done a few full distance Ironman races, what are a few pieces of advice you would go back and tell your past self before doing your first full distance Ironman?
Tony: Always maintain strength training in Ironman prep as it assists in progressing across the three disciplines quicker and injury prevention. Additionally, quit eating junk and stick with whole foods whenever possible haha.
Amarjit: You don't need to do every single workout listed in your TP. Focus on key workouts based on your personal and professional life.
6 - Any favorite purchases this year and how have they helped?
Tony: Bruh… my Quintana Roo VPRi has been a total game changer. After Ironman Lake Placid last year, I decided that I wanted to go all in on a tri bike and I’m so happy that I did. I will also give a shout out to the new BPN GM1+ endurance mix with pre-workout. It slaps!
Amarjit: Well, does a new road bike count? lol. I cannot wait to ride it after this race.
7 - Thanks for being so generous with your time and giving us a peak into this training prep. Any special shout-outs?
Tony: First off, the Philly Tri Club community and especially all of the discussions on the Member's Only Discord. There's never a shortage of encouragement, support, and advice given so freely and openly. There was a super helpful discussion recently about Shimano Di2 and electronic shifting. Also, shoutout to my coach, Reggie Waller with Waller Endurance Coaching, for a well-tailored training plan and for the support. I’ve made progress with him ever since we started working together and haven’t looked back.
Amarjit: All the PTCers!!! You guys rock! Philly Tri Club provides a great community and mix of meet-ups since we all have different race and event goals. Especially helpful was the bike maintenance class that Aravind Immaneni held to go over some of the basics we don't think about and tools every cyclist should have. THANK YOU!