Kiyan Sunderji is just back from Kona, Hawaii, where the 23-year-old competed in the Ironman World Championship. To his surprise, Sunderji won his age group, beating the best 18- to 24-year-olds on the world’s biggest stage. “I went in thinking I could make maybe top five or top three if I had a really good day,” said Sunderji. “I know Hawaii is about making less mistakes than your competitors because it’s a long day and you’re going to make some mistakes. “As long as you make less than the person beside you, you’re going to have a better day.” Tough race The Ironman World Championship is a gruelling race that tests your metal. This was Sunderji’s second time racing in Hawaii, and he says he knew what to expect. “I was expecting that it was going to be hard,” said Sunderji. “The heat was over 30 degrees the whole day, and the sun reflecting off the lava rock can feel up to 50 degrees. “It gets really hot, and (it’s) something in Canada we don’t have.” Dad competed in Ironman Sunderji is following in his father’s footsteps when it comes to ironman. Faizel also competed in the World Championship in Hawaii, and he says he’s proud of his son. “He’s seen us doing it as we were young, and he’s taken it to a whole new level,“ he said. “We’re so proud to see the hard work and determination he’s put in has taken him to this level.” Ironman isn’t for everyone; it’s tough, and you have to keep up with your training if you want to succeed. Sunderji’s mom, Karina, has seen first-hand how hard her son works. “It’s huge,” she said. “The early morning training swims, and then running after and committing a full day at work. “Then all of these evening commitments he puts in and the hours on the bike. “It’s a lot of silent training people don’t see.” Wants to be the best in the world Sunderji has some lofty goals in Ironman. He says he wants to be the best in the world by winning the overall championship in Hawaii. “I think I came 17th overall out of all the age groups, so the goal will be to see how high up I can get next year,” he said. “A lot of work in the off-season to get there, but I know I’m close, so that’s the goal.”
