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Marvellous May Alhaji has created a sensation, having won one of the most hardcore tests of human endurance - hands down.
Alhaji took home the Bahraini and GCC Women’s title in the Ironman 70.3 Middle East Championship, bringing pride to the kingdom alongside several fearless females from the island who rose to the challenge.
The Bahraini telecom marketing specialist completed the rigorous 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21.1km run as part of the event.
Alhaji, who was first introduced to triathlons in 2013, had been training all year long and is now elated as her efforts have paid off.
“Racing on home soil was epic,” said the former national tennis player who started racing after the birth of her first child. “The nerves were always high and the pressure was on. The race conditions were challenging, with the current and waves in the sea, and the strong winds made the bike leg of the event a tough task.
“The run was nice and I loved how the aid stations were organised. The volunteers were amazing.
“Also, congrats to Roya Alsaati and Fatema Murad who came second and third.
“Aside from winning the title, I was also placed sixth in my age group. I was hoping for better results, but I learned a lot from the event and hope to build on that for next season.”
Alhaji had also won the GCC title in September in the Ironman 70.3 Salalah, which she referred to as ‘special’.
“Ironman 70.3 Salalah was a very special race for me and very dear to my heart as it was my comeback after a bike crash in December 2021,” she explained.
“I broke six ribs and my right shoulder. I came back and won the GCC title, was the eighth woman overall and second in my age group. I love racing. It’s life for me as well as for my two daughters.
“I want to inspire women to take up this sport and be active.
“I also want to inspire the younger generation to lead a healthy well-balanced lifestyle. In addition, it is never too late to start anything.
“Up until the age of 34, I did not know how to swim. I only knew how to float and I was afraid of the sea. To conquer my fear and win is something beyond amazing.
“I am also happy to see the promising level of the next generation of Bahraini women in this sport.”
Follow @may.alhaji on Instagram.
