Afiq Xilantra Azmi, a 34-year-old UI developer, joined thousands of athletes at the Spartan KL Honour Trifecta Weekend 2024, embracing the physical and mental challenges the Spartan course demanded. For Afiq, the race was about more than conquering obstacles; it was an opportunity to test his limits, fuel his determination, and tap into the support of his team, Ninja Gelak-Gelak.

Afiq identified the Hercules Hoist as one of the most daunting tasks on the course. “Pulling that weight up took a lot of strength,” he shared, describing how he used his body weight to steady the hoist and complete the pull. While it pushed him to his limits, Afiq approached the challenge with a calm determination that carried him through.

Preparedness was key for Afiq, who entered the race with a pacing strategy and hydration plan. By keeping a steady heart rate in Zone 3, he avoided burning out too early, conserving energy for the latter part of the course. “I kept a steady pace and didn’t rush,” he noted. Equipped with DEVER Electrolyte Salt Tablet, Afiq stayed hydrated, warding off the risk of dehydration—crucial for the gruelling Spartan course.

Halfway through the race, fatigue and cramps set in. Yet, it was the presence of his team, Ninja Gelak-Gelak, that kept Afiq motivated. “Knowing my team was there kept me going,” he said, crediting his teammates for the extra push when he needed it most. This camaraderie proved essential, especially as Afiq encountered a challenging and unexpectedly muddy Bucket Carry, which tested his stamina and resolve. Despite the slow pace, he adopted a “one step at a time” mindset to conquer the obstacle.

Afiq described each approaching obstacle as a mix of excitement and trepidation. While some challenges, like the Atlas Carry, tested his strength, he faced them with pride and confidence. “I felt really proud,” he recalled, expressing gratitude for the techniques shared by his mentors, Coach Amir Yazman and Captain Raeiz, which empowered him to finish strong.

 

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The race also provided moments of pure enjoyment, particularly at the Multi Rig, where Afiq applied techniques learned from his teammate Nuur Hafis. This obstacle became a personal highlight, combining the skills and lessons he had gained from his teammates.

Reflecting on the day’s most challenging moments, Afiq mentioned he would like a rematch with the Hercules Hoist, hoping to build the strength required to handle the weight with greater ease. “I need more training with weight to make it easier next time,” he said, already looking towards future races.

Afiq’s experience at the Spartan KL Honour Trifecta Weekend highlighted the grit and resilience that Spartan races demand, with an extra measure of strength drawn from teamwork. For Afiq, it was an unforgettable race—one that underscored his determination to keep pushing his limits, both on and off the course.