Eight years ago, Rainty Tioh, now 46, was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer, undergoing one year of chemotherapy, radiation and ongoing oral medication.

A lifelong dream come true

This year, the Sabah-born Tioh, who is now cancer-free, will be taking part in the inaugural 2020 IRONMAN® 70.3® Desaru Coast. 

To her, the opportunity to be part of the race, in itself, is an act of sheer accomplishment and a lifelong dream come true.

Said Tioh, “My experience as a breast cancer survivor made me look at life from a different perspective. I learnt to treasure every moment. I try to achieve dreams as much as I possibly can, and completing a triathlon has always been one of them.”

She did not know how to swim or bike

Tioh did not know how to swim or bike at first, but her awe for triathlon brought out an unbridled passion to venture into unchartered territories. The Desaru Coast race will mark her IRONMAN debut.

Said Tioh, “I joined a triathlon sports workshop. I also signed up for swimming lessons. My consistent progress in both cycling and swimming made me even more keen and determined to be a triathlete.”

She added, “Training for an IRONMAN® 70.3® has taught me not to fear failure. Cycling is actually very challenging for me. I fell off a bike and got so badly injured that I had thoughts about giving up. But I was determined not to. Now I am glad to say that I am more confident with cycling.”

Highly committed training regime

Tioh trains every day, with three swim, bike and run sessions respectively, per week.

She said, “Training for a triathlon needs a highly committed regime. I watch my nutrition as well, consuming more vegetables and fruits. Rest is also vital.”

Have the right mindset

Tioh also adds that triathlon may be seen as a male-dominated pursuit, but she feels that it is all about having the right mindset.

She explained, “Many women are burdened with numerous responsibilities. Thinking positive is one way to deal with challenges. For me, being active challenges me.” 

Also continued Tioh, “Personally, I don’t feel the need to put pressure on myself, to compete with others. I am satisfied if I can perform better than my previous training.”

If Tioh performs  well at the IRONMAN® 70.3® Desaru Coast this April, she will have another life success story to tell.

IRONMAN hopes to celebrate female athletes 

Together with International Women’s Day on March 8th, the IRONMAN family hopes to honour and celebrate the strength and beauty of female athletes like Tioh. 

Female athletes should continue to uplift one another and share their stories as it will go a long way in empowering and encouraging women to gain confidence and go the distance.

All photos are credited to Desaru Coast MultiSports Festival