Riding the Tide: A 3-Day Triathlon Camp Experience in Goa

7 min read • April 23, 2026

From 17th to 19th April, athletes gathered at Benaulim Beach, Goa, for an immersive triathlon camp designed to simulate real race conditions while building confidence, technique, and endurance under the guidance of Coach Kishlay Rai.

Introduction

This 3-day camp was not just about training but it was about experiencing the sport in its truest form. With a mix of structured sessions, real-world challenges, and athlete interaction, the camp aimed to prepare participants for actual race scenarios, especially for events like Ironman 70.3.

Day 1: Owning the Ocean

The camp began with an open water swim session. For many athletes, open water swimming is the most intimidating discipline, and this session was designed to break that barrier.

Athletes were introduced to key fundamentals such as breathing techniques, floating, and body positioning. A major focus was placed on understanding the ocean itself i.e waves, tides, and swell patterns.

The goal was simple: build comfort and confidence. By the end of the session, athletes were no longer just reacting to the water. They were learning to work with it.

Deepika Singh, an entrepreneur from Mumbai, shared, “I have been swimming regularly for the past couple of years, but the learning I gained at this camp, especially for open water swimming has been incredible. It has truly boosted my confidence, and I am even more excited for the upcoming event now.”

Swapnil Tiwari, a software professional from Bengaluru, shared, “I had no prior exposure to open water swimming before attending this camp. The learning, hands-on experience, and overall exposure here have truly exceeded my expectations.”

Day 2: Race Simulation on the Goa 70.3 Route

Day 2 shifted focus to race execution with a brick workout on the Ironman 70.3 Goa route. The session included a 30 km ride followed immediately by a 30-minute run.

This combination tested not only physical endurance but also mental resilience. Athletes practiced pacing strategies, efficient transitions, and maintaining performance under fatigue.

Nutrition and hydration strategies were also discussed and applied during the session, giving athletes a realistic understanding of race-day demands.

Vivek Malik, a Businessman from Gurugram said “The Brick workout on Goa 70.3 course was something I was looking forward to. It gave me idea the route and the preparation required for it. The tips shared by Kishlay sir will help me strategize my hydration, nutrition and pacing plan for it”

Day 3: Where It All Came Together

The final day brought athletes back into the ocean, but this time under slightly rougher conditions. What initially seemed challenging quickly turned into the most valuable session of the camp.

Athletes tackled longer swim distances and spent extended time in the water, dealing with choppy waves and constant movement.

This session emphasized applying previously learned techniques under pressure. Breathing control, sighting, and maintaining composure became critical.

Many athletes experienced breakthroughs, i.e overcoming fear, finding rhythm, and building confidence in unpredictable conditions.

Joel Chekkulathu, an IT Engineer from Trivandrum, shared, “I had so many questions about the triathlon. I was bit nervous before coming here but the way Kishlay sir made all of us at ease, I could focus completely on the training. I am more confident and prepared to take on triathlon”

Beyond Training

The camp also included educational sessions covering essential aspects of triathlon performance.

• Nutrition strategies for endurance sports
• Understanding and selecting triathlon gear
• Open Q&A sessions to address athlete doubts

These discussions ensured that athletes left not only fitter but also more informed and prepared.

Conclusion

Over three days, athletes pushed their limits, learned new skills, and experienced the sport beyond structured training. From calm waters to rough seas, from controlled sessions to real-world challenges, the camp delivered a complete triathlon experience.

More importantly, it built a community of athletes ready to take on their next race with confidence and clarity.

Camp Gallery

More moments from the April Goa triathlon camp.