Taking on the Husky Ultra – One Athlete’s Five‑Day Journey Into an Epic Unknown
Firstly what is the Husky Ultra? It’s five days, four massive stages, and a level of grit that only a handful of athletes each year choose to test themselves against. Long days in the saddle, big kilometres on foot, across the iconic Jervis Bay coastline as both backdrop and battleground.
For many, including George Hatoum from Concord Triathlon Club, it’s a bucket‑list challenge. We had the chance for a Q&A with George following his race.
Why Husky Ultra? “Because it’s EPIC.”
When asked what drew him to the event, George shared “It’s an epic event that will challenge any and all athletes. It has a great format with good organisation and dedicated staff for just a small group of athletes.”
How does doing an event like this come about? Before Husky Ultra, George’s longest race was Ironman Port Macquarie – done once, and only once. But something about the Husky Ultra format, the community, and the sheer challenge of five days of racing lit a spark.
What does training look like for a five day race?
Preparation wasn’t reinventing the wheel for George, but it was redefining it. Here’s what his training week looked like:
- 2 runs per week (≈50 km total)
- 2 swims per week (≈6 km total)
- 3 rides per week (≈250 km total)
- + 2 strength sessions added in the final three months
It was essentially an Ironman program with a little more run volume and a lot more consistency.
“One year ago I was running 10-15 km per week. I increased by just 2 km per week to reach 50 km before the event.”
The Goal: Finish Healthy! And we’re pleased to share that he did just that.
He not only achieved it, but also exceeded expectations.
- Swim: Faster than planned
- Ride: Faster than planned
- Run: Exactly as planned
A perfectly executed strategy across the five demanding days.
The Support Crew: Small but Mighty
Every Ultra athlete knows the truth: you don’t do this alone.
When asked about his support crew, George told us “My wife was there every step of the way.”
And alongside her, a powerful community stood behind him from Concord Tri Club, to the Palestinian Triathlon Federation, who offered support and encouragement throughout the journey.
A special shout‑out goes to Frenchy (David), his Concord teammate who also took on the Husky Ultra.
“We were the only two from the same club. We trained some of our runs and rides together, and a lot of the club was following and encouraging before, during and after the race.”
When asked if he would be back, it wasn’t a never say never, but more about whether the date works in line with other epic adventures planned.
Inspired? Find out more about Husky Ultra: Elite Energy – Making Events MemorableElite Energy
