My Journey Through Endurance Sports in 2025

Building Strength in the Desert: February and March

The year kicked off with a strong team effort at the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo MTB Relay in February. Our 5-man team competed in the combined ages 150-199 category and secured 2nd place. This event was a fantastic way to start the season. Racing with family members created lasting memories in the desert! It’s always our favorite race of the season and a great reminder to get my butt in shape ASAP as the season is coming!

March marked a major milestone for Branden Scheel Racing. We hosted a two-week training camp in Tucson, welcoming 25 athletes to train in the desert heat. This camp was more than just workouts; it was about building community and pushing each other through some of the toughest conditions. The desert terrain and climate provided the perfect backdrop for preparing for the demanding races ahead. Nothing inspires me more than watching these athletes come together to share in the memories and suffering of a week-long training camp.

Pushing Limits at Ironman Texas and Early Season Races

April brought the challenge of Ironman Texas. I finished 28th overall. While there was a lot to work on, I achieved personal records during the bike and marathon legs. My run split was the 14th fastest among all athletes, which was a huge confidence boost. Achieving an Ironman PR in both the bike and marathon segments showed that my training was paying off (at least the little I had done at this point).

June was a month of highs and lows. On race morning at Boulder 70.3, I was involved in a car accident caused by a DUI driver. Thankfully, everyone was okay, but my race bike was destroyed, forcing me to DNS (did not start). Luckily, all involved were okay, with no sustained injuries. However, this incident was a harsh reminder of how unpredictable life can be. It truly changed the outlook on the year and life in general for all who were involved.

Despite this setback, I bounced back quickly. I completed the Unbound Gravel 200, finishing 38th out of 896 riders with a time of 11:08:49. Shortly after, I won the Average Joe Triathlon, taking 1st overall. These races helped me regain momentum and confidence.

Later in June, I faced another challenge at Ironman Lake Placid. Without my own bike, I rode a rental and battled fit issues. Unfortunately, I had to DNF after the bike leg. While it was a mental setback that took me a while to return from, it also reminded me of the respect we must show races, especially the 140.6 distance.

Branden Scheel competing on a rental bike at Ironman Lake Placid

Setting New Personal Records at 70.3 Augusta

September was a highlight of the season. At 70.3 Augusta, I set a new personal record with a bike split of 2:08, ranking 22nd overall on the bike in a pro field of over 50 men on the start line. My run split was also strong, coming in 14th overall with a time of 1:16. These efforts contributed to a new 70.3 PR of 3:52, helped by a downstream swim, of course.

This race was a clear sign that despite the earlier challenges, my fitness and race strategy had improved significantly. It also reinforced the value of consistent training, which I frequently lack, especially with our chaotic travel schedule.

Travel Abroad: Adventures in Scotland and Spain

In October, I was lucky enough to have my wife bring me along to Scotland and Spain. In Scotland, we were shooting a wedding (she is a wedding/elopement photographer), and we were able to have some of the most beautiful hikes and training runs of my life!

We then headed to Spain to watch six of our incredible athletes compete in the 70.3 World Championship! Riding the course a few times beforehand was so inspiring. Watching these six athletes attack the course and deliver some incredible results was a highlight. We then headed back to Arizona as it was now my race week for IMAZ! Unfortunately, my bike decided to extend its vacation in Spain.

Finishing Strong at Ironman Arizona and El Tour De Tucson

In November, I competed at Ironman Arizona under unusual circumstances. My bike was held in Spain, so I raced on a friend’s bike. Despite this, I managed to set personal records in the swim and run splits. My run split was 14th overall with a time of 2:50, and I finished 25th overall with an Ironman PR of 8:28.

Six days later, I raced El Tour De Tucson, a 102-mile cycling event. I finished 3rd overall in the Non-Platinum category with a time of 4:04:01. This race was a great way to close out the season, showing that endurance and speed can come together even after a long year.

Branden Scheel racing in Ironman Arizona

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

Reflecting on 2025, the season was a mix of personal bests, unexpected hurdles, and valuable lessons. The endurance sports community, especially our team, inspired me daily. The setbacks, like the accident and equipment issues, reminded me to stay adaptable and focused on what I can control.

For fellow endurance athletes, I encourage you to embrace every part of your journey. Whether it’s a PR or a race you had to quit, each experience builds your strength and character. Keep pushing, keep learning, and remember that every season shapes the athlete and coach you become.