World’s biggest sports event IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon 2019 was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka at the start of this year and we had an opportunity to be a part of this global event with Sri Lankan Airlines. They were the Airlines partner for this event and this also brought together sportsmen and sports enthusiasts from all over the world in Colombo. Sri Lankan Airlines played such an important part in making Colombo the go-to destination for every sports lover as the World had its eyes set on the event. The 1.9 kms ocean swim was held at the historic Galle Face Green followed by an immediate bike race covering 90 kms that too covered such historic landmarks of Colombo. The paths also were mapped around their important trading routes that connected East to West. The final round was a friendly 21.1 kms run that took the participants around the famous Port of Colombo. I couldn’t think of a better location for this year’s Iron Man 70.3 Triathlon than Colombo.
These are some of the highlights from this event with Sri Lankan Airlines and our experience covering the same :
Flying Business With Sri Lankan Airlines – Timely departures, best hospitality, authentic Sri Lankan meals on-board, friendly staff and luxurious seating are some of the things that made me fall in love with this carrier’s business class section.
I have never slept this well for a short duration flight and with them, the trip started on such a positive note!
Historic Destination – Galle Face Green is such a historic location for the Triathlon to be kick-started as it is an urban park spread over a humongous 5 hectares of land.
This is also known to be the largest piece of land in Sri Lanka that is easily accessible to tourists. With the ocean on one side and a walking/jogging track on the other, it made an ideal location for the event.
Swimming in the Ocean – The 1.9 kms swim was held right in the middle of the ocean and media and bloggers were taken on separate floatable boats keeping in mind the safety of the athletes, to have a closer look at all the live action.
This started at 5 am and has to be one adrenaline pumping activity for the day.
Cycling Through Colombo – I cheered on with our Indian flag as I interacted with individuals and families from so many countries who were on the roads of Colombo for either participating in the Triathlon or supporting their loved ones.
Running Around Colombo With Top Class Facilities – I was impressed with the provisions, medical facilities, water stalls, food and ice handlers, and other top class services that were at the disposal of all the participants.
This was such a happy high seeing all the worldwide athletes finish the last phase of the Triathlon.
Iron Kids – Meet the REAL Triathlon stars! These little athletes completed the finish line with their parents cheering them right by their side.
Some of the parents also ran alongside them and some of the kids were as young as 4 years old.
Awards Ceremony – After the Finale, we had the chance to be a part of the Awards Ceremony and the after party that was held in Shangri-La Colombo.
Serendib Lounge – On our way back from Colombo to Sri Lanka we spent some quality time at the Serendib Lounge at the airport which can be accessed by passengers flying Business Class with Sri Lankan Airlines.
The grand entrance itself will blow your mind and once inside right from the buffet to a sleep zone, a bar, and uninterrupted views of the tarmac will keep you busy. Hands down a must visit when you fly with Sri Lankan Airlines.
The race was held in such a perfect tropical warm weather combined by warm hospitality of Sri Lankan Airlines. It was an honor to represent India at this World-Class event as Salman and I were the only influencers invited from India. A massive thank you to Sri Lankan Airlines for this unforgettable experience and for kudos to the team for raising the bar so high.
We would soon like to re-visit this island nation to explore and do touristy things as this trip was all about work. Until next time loves!
