Dutch triathletes complete grueling endurance races in Sweden and Norway

Two Dutch triathletes have completed prestigious and demanding long-distance endurance races in Sweden and Norway.

Jonno Hekman, 32, from Raalte, earned the title of ‘Ironman’ after competing in Kalmar, Sweden. He completed the course, consisting of a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike ride, and a full marathon, in 12 hours, 30 minutes, and 17 seconds. Hekman noted that while his cycling went according to plan, the running portion proved difficult due to physical pain.

Ronald van den Berg, 35, from Dieren, completed the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon in Norway. He finished the grueling course in 13 hours, 56 minutes, and 30 seconds, reaching the summit of Gaustatoppen. The race included a 3.8 km swim in 14-degree water in the Hardangerfjord, a 180 km bike ride through mountainous terrain, and a marathon climb. Van den Berg earned the ‘Norseman Black Finisher’ status, having recorded the 38th fastest cycling time among men.