New Zealand’s Hayden Wilde, the Olympic silver medalist at the 2024 Paris Games, delivered a stellar performance to claim victory at the 30th Laguna Phuket Triathlon on November 17, 2024. Marking his debut in Southeast Asia’s longest-running international triathlon, Wilde showcased his exceptional athleticism and determination on a challenging course.

In the women’s division, the United Kingdom’s Kate Waugh successfully defended her championship, while Thailand’s Thanadon Wisarutsin emerged as the Thai national champion for the second consecutive year.

An International Showcase of Excellence

The event attracted over 1,000 athletes from more than 30 countries, solidifying its reputation as a premier global sports competition. Held in the picturesque Laguna Phuket area, the triathlon combined athletic rigor with the island’s natural beauty, further boosting Phuket’s image as a world-class destination for international sporting events.

The competition began at 6:30 a.m. on Bang Tao Beach, with participants tackling a three-stage course:

• 1.8-kilometer swim through the Andaman Sea and a lagoon
• 50-kilometer bike ride over scenic, hilly terrain
• 12-kilometer run within Laguna Phuket’s grounds

The race concluded at Laguna Grove around 12:30 p.m., producing unforgettable performances.

Men’s Division: A Triumphant Debut for Hayden Wilde

Wilde clinched victory with an impressive time of 2:19:03. Fellow New Zealander Tayler Reid finished second in 2:22:13, while Rostyslav Pevtsov of Ukraine secured third in 2:23:03.

“I’ve always wanted to compete in this triathlon,” said Wilde. “The course was as breathtaking as it was challenging, and despite the heat, this victory is incredibly fulfilling.”

Women’s Division: Kate Waugh Retains Her Crown

Reigning champion Kate Waugh delivered another remarkable performance, finishing in 2:35:39 to defend her title. Switzerland’s Alanis Siffest took second with a time of 2:39:54, while Sian Rainsley of the UK placed third, clocking 2:43:41.

“It’s an honor to compete and win here again,” Waugh shared. “The Laguna Phuket Triathlon is truly special, combining a prestigious race with an incredible setting.”

Thai National Champion: Thanadon Wisarutsin Shines Again

Nineteen-year-old Thanadon Wisarutsin claimed his second straight Thai national championship title, completing the race in 2:56:56.

A Celebration of 30 Years

This year marked a milestone for the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, celebrating three decades of excellence. Supported by key partners, including the Phuket Province, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Thai Airways International, the event continues to grow in prestige and global appeal.

Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, expressed his gratitude:
“We thank the athletes, partners, and supporters for making this milestone event a success. The Laguna Phuket Triathlon continues to inspire, and we look forward to an even more spectacular edition next year.”

The 30th Laguna Phuket Triathlon highlighted the spirit of athleticism and the allure of Phuket as a global sports hub. With elite athletes like Hayden Wilde and Kate Waugh gracing its stage, the event reaffirmed its place as a must-attend triathlon on the international calendar.