Panaji: Fifty trained lifesavers, advanced AI-powered robots and specially trained rescue dogs will monitor the safety of triathletes during the upcoming fourth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa, which kicks off on October 27 (Sunday) with a swim in the Arabian Sea off Miramar beach, in North Goa, organisers said.
As per a media release here, the promoters of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa, India’s premier endurance event, have tied up with Drishti Marine, a state government-appointed lifesaving agency dedicated to preventing drowning and managing emergencies along Goa’s coastline, to ensure a robust safety framework for the event’s opening leg, which involves a 1.9 km (1.2 mile) competitive swimming challenge.
Navin Awasthi, CEO of Drishti Marine, stated that “a team of 50 lifesavers will be deployed to ensure the safety of participants during the IRONMAN 70.3 Goa.”
He said that the team of lifesavers will be supported by five jet skis, 30 surfboards, two rescue vehicles and two motorboats ready for any emergency situations.
Additionally, two canines from the agency’s ‘Paw Squad,’ known for their expertise in beach safety, will also be present at Miramar beach during the swim segment, he added.
Awasthi said that to further enhance emergency readiness, Drishti Marine will establish two medical posts equipped with two rescue vehicles and trained personnel ready to respond swiftly to medical emergencies.
“Lifesavers stationed at these medical booths are skilled in essential first-aid procedures,” he added.
He said that Drishti Marine will also utilise cutting-edge technology, deploying its self-driving robot AURUS and the AI-powered TRITON, which monitors non-swim zones to identify potential threats and assists lifesavers in averting mishaps.
“Together, AURUS and TRITON will ensure comprehensive safety coverage for the participating endurance athletes,” the CEO added.
The IRONMAN 70.3 Goa is a triathlon endurance event, covering a total distance of 113 km—comprising a 1.9 km (1.2 mile) swim, a 90 km (56-mile) cycling segment and a 21.1 km (13.1-mile) run. The event has previously attracted competitors from over 50 countries.
