Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championship: ITU Athlete Aaron Royle Turns to a Longer Distance

Aaron Royle is gearing up for Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney tomorrow, a brand new distance for the ITU athlete. Trizone caught up with Royle to understand the new direction and his thoughts on the impending race.

“I could have found an easier race, but that wouldn’t have helped me see where my strengths are in 70.3, and help me see what areas I need to improve on,” Royle told Trizone.

Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney is infamous for attracting world-class athletes, and this year is no exception with Michael Raelert, Dan Wilson and Sam Appleton among other world-class pros set to race. “I knew if those guys were there, I could gauge myself against them, and see how I’m doing,” said Royle.

Ironman 70.3 means different thought processes for Royle

“There are a lot more things to think of in Ironman 70.3,” said Royle, “there are so many rules to remember. I’ve been practising planning everything out like getting out of the water and putting my race belt on, and practising where I’d discard my gel packets.”

Royle surprised some people with his comparisons, as ITU is notorious for having plenty of rules of its own. “I guess there are heaps of penalties in ITU,” said Royle, “but those rules come automatically to me now,” said Aaron.

Western Sydney a much longer distance than Royle has ever raced

“It’s double what I’ve done in the past,” said Royle, “I am wary of that, but I do know my capabilities. I also know the capabilities of my competitors. For example, if Wilson and Appo are in front of me riding 350 watts, I know that’s not sustainable for me for two hours. I also know it’s not sustainable for them either though.”

While many other athletes have made the change from ITU to Ironman 70.3, few manage to excel in their first few races. “History tells us it takes most people a few times to get it right. I’m aware there may be a few things that don’t go my way, but I am racing for the win,” Royle told Trizone.

Is Kona on Royle’s mind?

No. While Kona is the ultimate goal for many triathletes, and it’s not on Royle’s radar. “I don’t have any aspirations to do an Ironman at the moment,” said Aaron. “For me, it was always the Olympics. Initially, my goal was swimming at the Olympics then it changed to triathlon.” As we all know, Royle has competed at the Olympics, so it’s no wonder he’s looking to another division of triathlon for a new challenge until the next Olympics roll around.

Injury early in 2017 means Royle is race fit now

“I had a late start to the year because of my injury,” said Royle, “it’s allowed me to be in relatively good form this late in the season.” Timing is on Royle’s side, and he’s feeling great. “If the race went perfectly I think I have the capabilities to be pushing for the win. I don’t want to disrespect the competition by saying that as there are a handful of world-class athletes in the field who are also capable of winning that race,” Royle added modestly. “I mean, Michael Raelert doesn’t come to Australia unless he’s in good shape,” Aaron said laughing.

The preparation has been done, and now all eyes are on Royle at his debut Ironman 70.3 race tomorrow at Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney. Trizone wishes Royle, and all the athletes the best of luck.