London-Based Runner Santosh Rai Achieves Success at Ironman Leeds
Santosh Rai, a runner residing in London, delivered an outstanding performance at the ‘Ironman Leeds’ competition, securing second place in his age group and 51st overall. He achieved this accomplishment in the event held on Sunday.
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- Nepali runner Santosh Rai, based in London, secured second place in his age group and 51st overall at Ironman Leeds.
- Rai became the first Nepali and first London bus driver selected for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
- He said, “My first attempt to qualify for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, has been successful.”
London — Santosh Rai, a London resident and accomplished runner, showcased a strong performance at the Ironman Leeds competition held last Sunday. He finished second in his age category and 51st among all participants.
Ironman Leeds is considered one of the world’s most challenging full-distance triathlon courses, encompassing a 3.8-kilometer swim, 180-kilometer cycling, and a 42.195-kilometer marathon. The course’s demanding uphill and downhill terrain adds an extra level of difficulty for competitors.
Due to water safety concerns, the swimming segment was canceled, and the event consisted only of cycling and running stages.
Santosh Rai stated, “The most important achievement for me is qualifying for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, and my first attempt has been successful.”
He takes pride in becoming the first Nepali and the first London bus driver to earn a spot at the Kona World Championship.
The highly competitive World Championship, taking place on October 10 in Kona, Hawaii, admits only about 3% of triathletes across various age groups.
Qualification requires winning one’s age group and inclusion through a ballot process, which mandates completion of at least 12 Ironman races and consistent participation over the past two years.
The Ironman World Championship is regarded globally as the ultimate goal and dream for triathletes.
Rai added, “I believe my journey will inspire others to understand that with dedication, hard work, and perseverance, nothing is impossible.”
In 2024, he became the first Nepali to compete in the World Championship long-distance triathlon, placing in the top 13.
Earlier, in 2023, representing Nepal at the World Championship long-distance triathlon in Pontevedra, Spain, he achieved 17th place in the 40-44 age group.
Santosh Rai, founder of Nepal Run UK, also set a Guinness World Record running the 45th edition of the renowned London Marathon wearing Nepal’s traditional daura suruwal outfit.
Since starting his running career in 2009, Rai has been the first Nepali to complete all six major world marathons — London, Berlin, New York, Chicago, Boston, and Tokyo.
Nepal Run UK has organized seven full marathon events across Nepal’s seven provinces within a week, with Rai participating twice in these events.