Preparing for the Kathmandu Coast to Coast is no small feat, but for Deborah Lynch, it’s been an even bigger challenge this year. The multisport athlete has balanced running, cycling, kayaking, and swimming as she gears up for the grueling Longest Day event.
Lynch, who finished seventh in her age group at the Ironman 70.3 (half-ironman) World Championships in Taupō last December, has been refining her endurance across disciplines. While swimming became a key focus, she maintained her kayaking fitness, ensuring her boat skills remained sharp after finishing second in the Motu Challenge.
“My coach Tim Brazier basically held my paddle to ransom,” Lynch joked. “If I completed my assigned swimming load during the week, I could go kayaking on the weekends!”
Lynch’s past two Longest Day races have seen strong early performances, particularly in the mountain run, where she posted a three-hour, 46-minute time last year. However, a mechanical issue at Mount White disrupted her race and forced her to play catch-up on the kayak leg.
“This year, it’s just about making sure I don’t do anything stupid,” Lynch said. “I don’t have to do anything special in the kayak—just stay upright and tie the ropes properly!”
With Simone Maier dominating the event in recent years, Lynch acknowledges the challenge but remains optimistic about a podium finish—or more.
“I think I’ve shown in the last two years that I can be right up there in the first half. I just need to put the second half together,” she said. “I think my kayak splits can be similar to the others, and the biggest opportunity for improvement is the final cycle.”
Despite the high stakes, Lynch remains focused on enjoying the journey.
“If I’m having more fun, I’m usually doing a bit better!” she said.
With experience, determination, and a sharpened skillset, Deborah Lynch is ready to give the 2025 Coast to Coast her best shot.