Over 3,000 enthusiastic spectators cheered on the athletes from around the globe who converged to “Race the Legend” at Asia’s longest-running and most legendary triathlon, delivering a day of high-octane action and fierce rivalry as competitors navigated a demanding three-stage course.
Participants and spectators alike descended on the start line at Bang Tao Beach for the 6:30am start as a highly competitive field of elite pros and age-groupers tackled the unique 1.8-kilometre swim across the Andaman Sea and lagoon, followed by a gruelling 50km bike ride through Phuket’s scenic but challenging routes, and an epic 12km run.
The Men’s Elite division witnessed a historic showdown among international heavyweights, with Tayler Reid from New Zealand surging to victory in a time of 2 hours 12 minutes and 39 seconds.
The victory not only saw the 2024 Paris Olympics silver medalist retain his title but simultaneously smash his victorious time from last year of 02:19:03.
However, the competition was fierce and the race featured a rare and electrifying photo finish scenario, with Reid barely holding off runner-up Josh Ferris of Australia, who finished just seconds behind at 02:12:53. The two athletes traded the lead throughout the gruelling course before Reid’s final burst of energy and resolve secured the win at the death. Rostyslav Pevtsov of Ukraine rounded out the podium in third place with a time of 02:19:07.
Taylor-Brown dominates
The Women’s Elite field delivered equally heated competition. Georgia Taylor-Brown from the United Kingdom put on a masterclass performance, displaying superior form to cross the finish line first and claim the championship title with an impressive time of 02:27:57.
She was followed by Nicole van der Kaay of New Zealand in second place with a time of 02:35:26, while France’s Justine Guérard took third place with a time of 02:38:45.
Thai National Champion and local legend Jaray Jearanai defended his reputation and national Thai pride, finishing as the top Thai athlete with an impressive time of 02:47:55, once again proving his dominance on home soil.
The excitement kicked off earlier on Saturday (Nov 22) with the “Open Water Swim presented by TriHub”. The 5km challenge served as the perfect warm-up, with Rodina Liudmila claiming the women’s victory in a blistering 00:52:55, and Alexander Taraskin taking the men’s title with a time of 01:23:46.
“Congratulations to the winners and over 1,000 athletes who helped create history in this 31st edition,” said Paul Wilson, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, summarising the event’s success and future vision afterwards.
“Today’s success confirms that Laguna Phuket is evolving beyond being just the ‘Home of Triathlon.’ We are moving toward becoming Asia’s premier fully integrated Sports Destination, ready to host diverse world-class events ranging from beach volleyball to multi-sport championships and professional training camps,” he added.
“Looking ahead, 2026 will mark a major turning point with the launch of over 2,000 new room keys. This expansion elevates us into a massive Sports Hospitality Hub capable of welcoming global athletes and fans. We are committed to blending sport with nature and relaxation, perfectly answering the growing trend of Wellness and Sustainable Sport Tourism.”
Celebrating its 31st anniversary, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon remains Southeast Asia’s longest-standing international triathlon. Known for its challenging course and breathtaking views, the event continues to attract elite athletes and amateur competitors from around the world.
The 31st Laguna Phuket Triathlon was organised in collaboration with Phuket Province, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thai Airways, and other key public and private partners.
For full results, please visit www.lagunaphukettri.com.
For more information, please visit www.lagunaphukettri.com or follow the Facebook page: Laguna Phuket Triathlon Thailand.