New Delhi: The only Indian athlete to compete
in International Ironman Triathlon, Anuradha Vaidyanathan, was
today roped in as brand endorser by watch-manufacturing giants
Timex.
Ironman triathlon is one of the most gruelling racing
events in the world, during which every participant has to
swim across 3.9km, cover 180km on a bike, followed by a full
42.2km marathon - without any break.
Vaidyanathan said she can now aim higher after landing
her first sponsorship deal.
"Triathlon is not a big money event like many other games
nor you can expect results fast. You have to keep competing
for five-six years to become a familiar face in international
circuit," said Vaidyanathan.
"So it is very important to have the sponsorship backup.
This is my first major sponsorship deal and I hope this will
help me to improve my performance in the years to come," the
Bangalore-based athlete said.
Vaidyanathan was also the youngest to complete the
arduous Ultraman Canada Race held in August.
The 27-year-old, who took up professional triathlon four
years ago, said, "my field is mostly international. Now I am
preparing for the Half-Ironman event later this year that will
probably held in Malaysia."
Bureau Report
First Published: Tuesday, September 08, 2009, 16:20