Name: Mayank Vaid

Triathlon background

Started triathlons in 2015. Done a few Ironman and Half Ironmans. Ultraman Australia and Hawai. Arch2Arc relay in 2018 and Solo in 2019. EverestMan 2021. HK360Xtreme 2020.

How old are you?

49

What do you think will be the toughest moment during the event?

Running back from Dover to London.

Favourite discipline (run, cycle, swim) and why?

Long distance Running. Alone. Without any music, assistance or support. Without equipment. In the nature. Lots of me time.

Why do you push yourself to this level?

Keep me connected to my father (and my childhood) who was full of pushing the limits.

What made you want to take on Arch2Arc?

Attempted double in 2024 and failed the swim. Want to go back and finish unfinished business.

Favourite post-training meal

Lots of meat. A cold beer is so good.

How can people follow or support your journey?

Watch the A2A tracker.

Least favourite discipline?

Core workouts and stretching.

What does finishing Arch2Arc mean to you personally?

Setting an example for my kids that it’s okay to fail. And it’s good to go back and try again after failing. There is no failing but only learning.

Hidden talent outside of sport

Hospitality

What do you do for work?

Solicitor

What does a typical training week look like?

3 - 4 long swims, 2 bikes rides (one on trainer and one outdoors), 2 short runs and one long outdoor run. Lots of time with family and good feelings to store as food for my long workouts. Lots of good sleep. Eating whatever comes to mind.

Nationality / where you’re based

India / Based in Hong Kong

One word your friends would use to describe you

Mayniak (Maniac!)

Who or what inspires you?

Everytime a human accomplishes the impossible I get super motivated and feel happy about the possibilities out there

What keeps you going when things get really tough?

Been there before. If I’m not dying then just keep trying.

How are you preparing differently for this compared to other races?

Swimming is the priority. Puting together a strong crew.

Any unusual or extreme training methods?

Trail running in the dark. OW swims at night.