In conversation with Ironman Imtiaz Ilahi on his triathlon journey, and the importance of discipline
IRONMAN, BDRunners Activist
Managing Director
Wunderman Thompson Dhaka
Photograph: Shihab Mohammad
You had suffered a severe spinal injury. What inspired you to start running after that, and how challenging has the journey been?
In 2000, I was injured in an army parachute jump accident. It caused 3 broken vertebrae and permanent damage to the nerves in my right leg. The doctor told me I could never participate in rigorous athletic activities again. However, around eight years later, I attempted to run again. I started with short-distance runs, and gradually allowed my body to adjust. Being highly active and passionate about sports, I missed being physically engaged. I was inspired to start running again to regain my former self. Over time, I increased the distances, from 5 kilometres to 10, 15, and eventually 20. I also introduced cycling and swimming into my routine, which aided in my recovery. Coping with the limitations caused by nerve damage in my right leg was a challenge. However, as I engaged in these sports, my body adapted, and the structured training, time, and effort I put in helped improve my performance.
After a while, I realised I wanted to push my limits even further. In 2017, I signed up for my first short-distance triathlon race and in 2018, I attempted my first Ironman race. The Ironman race is one of the longest single-day triathlon races in the world, encompassing a 3.8 km swim, 180 km cycle, and 42.2 km run, all to be completed within 17 hours. Training for my first race was challenging. It took me 16 hours and 24 minutes to finish my first Ironman race, but it only fueled my desire to participate in more races.
Training for my first race was challenging. It took me 16 hours and 24 minutes to finish my first ironman race, but it only fueled my desire to participate in more races.
Can you share a few moments when you had to dig deep to push through physical exhaustion or mental fatigue during a race?
In May 2023, I participated in an Extreme Triathlon race called HimalayanXtri in the Annapurna Mountain range, Nepal. Unlike most Ironman races that take place on paved roads, Xtri races are off-road through the mountains. This race posed additional difficulties due to high elevation and extreme weather conditions, including rain, snow storm, cold temperatures, extreme heat and humidity, all occurring on the same day. At times, I questioned my decision to participate in such a demanding race. However, I realised that although I had the option to quit, I didn’t want to. It was one of the toughest races I had ever attempted, but I pushed myself and ultimately finished it.
Another challenging moment was when I swam the Bangla Channel, a distance of approximately 16.1 km from Teknaf to Saint Martin. Strong winds and huge waves disoriented me, causing panic as I couldn’t see the shore. The sight of a rescue boat intensified my urge to quit. However, I gathered the courage to approach them for directions and made the difficult decision to continue with the swim towards the island. Out of the 80 people who attempted the swim that day, I was amongst the 47 who made the crossing. This decision was one of the most challenging I have made, but also one of the most rewarding.
What was the biggest inspiration behind co-founding Dhaka Half Marathon? What exciting things can we expect from the BD Runners community?
I am an active member of the BDRunners community. When we initiated this community in 2011, there were limited opportunities for people to come together and run collectively. From this community, we launched our first successful event, the Dhaka Half Marathon, in 2018. Subsequently, BDRunners organized additional successful events. The 4 editions of the Dhaka Half Marathon served as inspiration for individuals to embrace running and introduced an internationally recognized running event. Although the Dhaka Half Marathon has not taken place for a few years, BDRunners consistently arrange community running events and meetups where individuals of all ages and genders can actively participate and involve their families.
What advice do you have for individuals who are recovering from injuries and want to pursue running or any physical activity?
Injuries resulting from accidents or health issues can limit your physical activity, but there are always alternative ways to stay active. For example, if running is not possible, swimming or cycling are low-impact options. Engaging in sports can greatly aid in the recovery process from injuries. However, it is crucial not to rush your progress. It’s important to take it slow and not expect immediate results. Achieving your desired level of fitness may take months or even years. While motivation may fluctuate, it is discipline that keeps you committed. Discipline means committing to an activity regardless of your current feelings. Personally, I strive to maintain a strict training routine. Even on days when I’m not at my best, I make it a point to complete my workouts, adjusting the intensity as needed. Life revolves around habits, and with discipline, anything becomes possible.