Ironman? More like Ironlady 

KOTA TINGGI – Age is just a number, yes. But does that number play a role in subjecting one’s body to the physically arduous challenge of an Ironman triathlon? Not according to 71-year-old Agnes Safford.  

Born in California, she is in town for the Ironman 70.3 triathlon here at the Desaru Coast Multisport Festival.  

But she is not here just to soak in the sights and dip her toes in the water.  

The chirpy veteran is a seasoned Ironman triathlon finisher and has done five full Ironmans – which encompass 3.8km swimming, 180km cycling, and 42km running.  

When it comes to Half Ironmans, Agnes has completed so many that she has stopped keeping track of them.  

“I think I did 15 Half Ironmans, I don’t keep track anymore because I’ve done so many. This one is maybe my 16th,” she said.  

Now residing in Sri Lanka, Agnes has for a long time called Asia her home, having lived in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Indonesia.  

However, Agnes is not someone who has been doing triathlons all her life.  

“I have been doing this for 21 years, I was 50 when I started.  

“I had been riding bicycles for a while but wanted to learn swimming, and that’s how I got into doing Ironmans,” she explained.  

Agnes said her theory for staying fit at her age is to not settle and keep moving.  

“As you get older you have to move more.  

“People have it all wrong! As you age it’s about moving, staying active and healthy.” 

For tomorrow’s Ironman 70.3, Agnes said her goal is to cross the finish line, but her competitive spirit will push her to better her personal best time.  

Currently, her best time for a Half Ironman is 5h 51m, and her record for a full Ironman is 12h 25m.  

“Now, anything under seven hours would be fantastic for me, because the heat and hydration is the biggest factor on this course,” said Agnes.  

When asked if she considered slowing down her active lifestyle anytime soon, she said, “Of course not!” 

“People ask me how long I’m going to ride my bike, well until the day I die. Why is that going to be a restriction? 

“I seriously think it’s all about moving, keep moving. And tell anybody that’s my age or in that bracket to just keep moving, that’s what’s important!” – The Vibes, July 23, 2022.