Latest news with #IronmanTriathlon
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
John Brenkus, risk-taking host of 'Sport Science,' dies after battle with depression
'Sport Science' host John Brenkus, shown in 2018, has died after a battle with depression, his production company said Sunday. (Willy Sanjuan / invision / Associated Press) John Brenkus, the charismatic TV host who found creative ways to get sports fans to think about science, has died, his production company, said Sunday in a statement. 'John, co-founder of Base Productions, founder of and co-creator and host of the 6-time Emmy Award-winning 'Sport Science,' had been battling depression," the statement read. 'John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025." Advertisement The statement added that Brenkus' "heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.' Brenkus grew up in Vienna, Va., and was a participant in multiple Ironman Triathlon races. Also a successful businessman and media producer, Brenkus was best known as the host of "Sport Science." Read more: Georgia O'Connor, beloved and unbeaten British boxer, dies at 25 The show aired from 2007-2017, first on Fox Sports as hour-long episodes for two seasons, then on ESPN in segment form within the network's other programs. It featured scientific experiments that tested common notions about athletes, their abilities and the capacity of the human body. Advertisement In addition to the participation of numerous sports stars, Brenkus would often take part in the experiments, putting himself "in harm's way for the sake of scientific discovery," as ESPN once put it. "Standing a very average 5' 8' tall, and tipping the scales at an equally average 160 pounds, Brenkus intersperses his hosting and executive producing duties on Sport Science with performances as the show's 'Everyman,' to help demonstrate what happens when a regular guy steps on the field, into the ring, or on the court with top athletes at the top of their games," a 2009 ESPN press release stated. "Along the way, he helps audiences understand their own physiologies and how to improve their overall performance, health and well-being." ESPN's Randy Scott remembered his former colleague, who was reportedly 53 when he died, Monday morning on "SportsCenter." Advertisement "John was uniquely talented and singularly brilliant at not only analyzing sports but then translating sports and science to generations of fans in memorable ways, because John was memorable," Scott said. "… This world was a better place with John Brenkus in it.' Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Los Angeles Times
a day ago
- Science
- Los Angeles Times
John Brenkus, risk-taking host of ‘Sport Science,' dies after battle with depression
John Brenkus, the charismatic TV host who found creative ways to get sports fans to think about science, has died, his production company, said Sunday in a statement. 'John, co-founder of Base Productions, founder of and co-creator and host of the 6-time Emmy Award-winning 'Sport Science,' had been battling depression,' the statement read. 'John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025.' The statement added that Brenkus' 'heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.' Brenkus grew up in Vienna, Va., and was a participant in multiple Ironman Triathlon races. Also a successful businessman and media producer, Brenkus was best known as the host of 'Sport Science.' The show aired from 2007-2017, first on Fox Sports as hour-long episodes for two seasons, then on ESPN in segment form within the network's other programs. It featured scientific experiments that tested common notions about athletes, their abilities and the capacity of the human body. In addition to the participation of numerous sports stars, Brenkus would often take part in the experiments, putting himself 'in harm's way for the sake of scientific discovery,' as ESPN once put it. 'Standing a very average 5' 8' tall, and tipping the scales at an equally average 160 pounds, Brenkus intersperses his hosting and executive producing duties on Sport Science with performances as the show's 'Everyman,' to help demonstrate what happens when a regular guy steps on the field, into the ring, or on the court with top athletes at the top of their games,' a 2009 ESPN press release stated. 'Along the way, he helps audiences understand their own physiologies and how to improve their overall performance, health and well-being.' ESPN's Randy Scott remembered his former colleague, who was reportedly 53 when he died, Monday morning on 'SportsCenter.' 'John was uniquely talented and singularly brilliant at not only analyzing sports but then translating sports and science to generations of fans in memorable ways, because John was memorable,' Scott said. '… This world was a better place with John Brenkus in it.'
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Two forest dept officers redefine endurance with ‘Ironman' titles
1 2 3 4 5 6 'Triumphing over icy waters, strong wind & exhaustion' When deputy conservator of forests (wildlife) Tushar Chavan crossed the finish line at the 'Ironman' triathlon on July 2, 2023, he forever etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian forest service officer to earn the coveted title, conquering the challenging 226km course in Kazakhstan. Regarded as one of the world's most demanding single-day sporting events, the Ironman triathlon is a gruelling test of endurance. It comprises a 3.8km swim, 180.2km cycle ride and 42.2km marathon, all to be completed within 17 hours. At the Kazakhstan leg of the event, Chavan battled icy waters, kicks and jostling from fellow contestants that disrupted his breathing pattern and stability. He, however, overcame all the odds and successfully finished the segment in 1 hour and 54 minutes. The cycling leg proved just as taxing, with strong winds slowing him down. But he persevered, completing the segment in 7 hours and 23 minutes. He then tackled the marathon, pushing through exhaustion and stiff legs to finish in 6 hours and 29 minutes, wrapping up the triathlon in under 15 hours. The training, regarded as more demanding than the actual event, was not a problem for Chavan — a dedicated sportsperson. The 45-year-old seized every opportunity to train, incorporating cycling trips to Bhigwan and Bhimashankar sanctuary into his work outings and logging at least 2 hours of swimming in nearby dams every day. His weekend training started as early as 3am, with only one rest day a week. After rigorous training for over seven months to a year, Chavan competed in the Bergman race in Kolhapur for the half-Ironman title, which gave him the confidence to pursue the final event. H e did not accomplish it alone, but under the guidance of renowned Ironman coach Satish Nalaware; also alongside Chavan at every step was his wife, Sayali. Both supporters showed immense faith in Chavan, he highlighted proudly. "Sayali supported me through it all, standing at the finish line waiting for me," he said. It was not an easy journey, he said. The diet, discipline and physical strain were harsh on him. "This pushed my boundaries, both physically and mentally. As an officer, you are cushioned by the system. The training broke those barriers for me. Representing my country at the event was an exhilarating experience. It taught me to overcome all odds in my life," he told TOI. Chavan now eyes his next Ironman event. 'Builds mental toughness, makes us better officers' Finishing the Baramati full marathon in Dec 2023 marked a turning point for Mayur Bothe, assistant conservator of forests in Pune. This success fuelled his momentum, enabling him to overcome the challenging Ironman Triathlon in Busselton, Western Australia, which he completed in 13 hours and 22 minutes in Dec 2024. Bothe's journey began in June 2023 when his friend and colleague, Deepak Pawar, recognised his potential and encouraged him to pursue it. This sparked a series of challenging runs, including a 21km uphill run at Sinhagad Fort on Aug 13 the same year, followed by the Baramati full marathon. "That's when I decided, I will earn the (Ironman) title," the 35-year-old said. Bothe's training journey was marked by immense dedication, with as little as 2-3 hours of sleep. Despite facing setbacks, including an injury after the Goa Half Ironman and visa issues that threatened his participation, he persevered. While his training group of 13 dwindled because of the challenges, Bothe remained committed to his goal. "I used to throw up during swims. I had no idea how I'd survive the real contest," the forest official told TOI. Bothe's visa to Australia was delayed, almost derailing his participation in the event. However, it arrived eight days before the Ironman triathlon, allowing him to proceed. On the day of the Ironman Triathlon, strong coastal winds threatened to demoralize Bothe. However, he drew inspiration from the support of his loved ones, particularly his wife Kajal. "She cared for our one-year-old alone while I pursued my dream. This thought motivated me to push forward," he said. Bothe recalled the 'exceptional' feeling after he crossed the finish line at the Ironman event. "It sounds crazy, but when you have the right people to push you ahead, you can achieve anything in life, even at 60 years of age. Physical endurance builds mental toughness and that makes us better officers too," he said. He's now training for the Comrades Marathon, an 89-km uphill run held in South Africa.
The Citizen
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Upper Highway resident to complete her 23rd Comrades
WHEN Jen Rigby first watched the Comrades Marathon race on TV, she said, 'These people must be completely nuts.' Little did she know that she will try it and completely fall in love with the ultimate human race. This year, she will be running her 23rd Comrades. Speaking to the Highway Mail, Rigby said she first heard about the Comrades when she was staying in England. 'I grew up in North Rhodesia and Zimbabwe and travelled back and forth to the UK. I ran my first race in 1997 when we moved to South Africa.' Growing up, Rigby participated in athletics, track and field athletics. 'I was introduced to running by my au pair from Norway.' Moving to South Africa, she first joined the Savages Club. Also read: Comrades runner's pink hair attracts fans 'I met people there who became my running friends. From the Savages Club, I registered with the Kingfisher Canoe Club. I joined the club as they did running and paddling. I enjoy paddling.' She is currently with the Kearsney Striders Club where she has been a member for the past two decades. The Assagay resident said the race would not be what it is if it was not for the camaraderie and the people on the sides of the roads. 'Preparing for the Comrades is hard work, and to run the race one has to be mentally prepared. For me, the crowds make the race, the cheer and the support is amazing. 'It is a life-changing moment, it humbles you and on the day everyone is the same.' She said her highlight over the years was running both the up run and the down run in the same time of nine hours and 30 minutes. Having the double green number, Rigby said she enjoys running and wishes to continue participating in the race. 'I am looking forward to being part of the race in 2027 as it will be a milestone, celebrating a 100 years.' To prepare for the race, the Upper Highway runner trains during the week and twice on weekends. Rigby is a fitness fanatic as besides running, she enjoys cycling and mountain biking with her husband. Also read: Local nutritionist shares race-ready diet tips ahead of Comrades Marathon 'I also do spinning and weights at the gym.' She also enjoys swimming in the sea. 'I used to do triathlon, I have also taken part in a few Ironman Triathlons.' An Ironman Triathlon is one of a series of long-distance triathlon races organised by the World Triathlon Corporation. It consists of a 3.9km swim, a 180.2km bicycle ride and a 42.2km marathon run. It is widely considered one of the most difficult one-day sporting events in the world. Rigby encouraged children to get involved in sport. 'It is a wonderful way of life and to keep out of trouble. Running is a way of destressing and it clears one's mind – people should try it.' For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook , X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
'I'm running an Ironman Triathlon at 60'
While many of us will be taking advantage of the bank holiday weekend for a bit of rest and relaxation, one man will be in training to push his body to its limits. Ian Russell, an airline pilot from Hereford, is preparing to run his first Ironman Triathlon - at the age of 60. Generally considered one of the toughest one-day races in the world, the event sees competitors swim 2.4 miles (3.9km), cycle 112 miles (180.2km) and then run a full marathon of 26.2 miles (42.1km). "They use to say life begins at 40. Now, 60 is the new 40," said Mr Russell. Although Mr Russell was a keen sportsman when he was younger - he lists climbing Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn among his achievements - work and family commitments had an impact on how active he could be. He later took up running, before joining his local triathlon club. Inspired by some of his fellow members who had taken part, last autumn Mr Russell signed up to the Ironman event in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, this September. "What I didn't realise was that, although it's local and easy to get to, it's actually one of the toughest ones going," he said. Since then, Mr Russell has invested in a coach and trains "most days" - but has suffered a couple of setbacks. "I've had a big operation on my hand," he explained, "which took a few weeks to recover from. And then I broke my foot out training with the triathlon club. "That took a good six to eight weeks to recover from. "So I'm not starting from the best base." He said that, while he was training hard, he was avoiding pushing himself too much. "You might end up injuring yourself, which I can't afford now," he said. "So the idea is just to nurse my old creaking bag of bones through to get to the start line." Mr Russell added he was worried about making a cut off, of two hours 20 minutes, to complete the swim. "I'm definitely not a swimmer," he said. "If you don't make the cut off, you don't even get as far as the bike ride. "All my main part of my training in my mind is revolving around getting through the swimming part. So at least I can get on a bike and… let Mother Nature and tailwinds take their course." Despite this, the athlete said he had no regrets. "I'm proving that age is no barrier to setting bold goals and achieving them," he added. Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Thousands 'face the dragon' at Ironman Wales 'World Ironman Championship will be a fun day out' Man with hole in neck to compete in triathlon Ironman
