(Sports news) Huafrid Billimoria has become the fastest Indian with Dystonia to finish and place second runner up last week in Ironman Dubai 70.3, one of the world's toughest triathlons. Organised on March 5th in Dubai, it is said to be one of the most gruelling and toughest triathlons in the world. The Ironman 70.3 includes a 1.9km swim followed by a 90km bicycle ride and 21.1km marathon that needs to be wrapped up under 8 hours without taking a break. The triathlon is a very challenging one in itself, but battling Dystonia and managing to finish second runner up is a remarkable achievement.
Dystonia is a condition which causes involuntary muscle contractions and twisting movements. Not only did the Ironman of India -Huafrid Billimoria complete the triathlon, he also set a new world record by completing it in 7hours and 7 mins becoming the fastest Indian with Dystonia and Multiple Disabilities to bag the third position. The previous best was 7 hours and 44 mins. The Mumbai based athlete began preparations for the Ironman Dubai 70.3 three years ago and was invited to compete by Power Peaks, one of his sponsors. He was also sponsored by Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness Centre, which covered all of his travel and lodging costs. Previously, the firm assisted him in the treatment of mental conditions.
Pune based coaching academy PowerPeaks Athlete Lab, founded by coach and pro-athlete Chaitanya Velhal were not only inspired by Billimora’s commitment but also believed in his abilities. "Ironman Dubai 70.3 is a dream come true moment for me. It has been a long time calling, I feel elated to secure third place in the triathlon. I am indebted to Power Peaks who helped me immensely in my training. And I would like to thank all my sponsors from Veda Rehab & Wellness, Power Peaks and Koros- and all other sponsors without whom I couldn't have achieved this. It is an honour to represent India internationally." says Huafrid Billimoria after his win.
Huafrid Billimoria is only the second person in the world with Dystonia to have completed the full Ironman. He suffers from multiple challenges and disabilities like clinical ADHD, clinical mental health conditions like General Anxiety Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). He also had severe learning disabilities from the age of five. Despite the number of challenges, Huafrid Billimoria has proved that everything is possible if you set your mind to it. He has already reiterated that he wants to use his platform to spread awareness about disability, the lack of Empathy and belief in people who want to get ahead but can't because of all the bias and discrimination around the topic.
Billimora is already training for the toughest Ironman in the world, which will take place in April in South Africa, and he will also be competing in the upcoming Olympics. His sole purpose in participating in these marathons and triathlons is to represent India worldwide and to encourage more individuals like him to go forward and do their best.
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