Sometimes setbacks force you to pause and reassess the bigger picture.
Ironman Cairns 2026 wasn't the race I had planned. A Grade 2 calf tear brought my day to an early end and resulted in my first Ironman DNF in almost 40 years.
Of course, I was disappointed.
But after a few days of reflection, I realised something important.
This isn't the end of a journey.
It's the beginning of a new chapter.
Welcome to Project 58.
What is Project 58?
Project 58 is my commitment to becoming the strongest, fastest and healthiest version of myself at 58 years of age.
It's not about chasing one race result.
It's about building a sustainable lifestyle that allows me to remain fit, competitive, adventurous and healthy well into my 60s and beyond.
Over the past few years, my focus has been on building the endurance required to compete at Ironman level. That journey has taught me a lot — but this next chapter is about becoming a more complete athlete.
The focus now shifts to building strength, resilience, mobility and recovery alongside endurance, creating a sustainable approach that supports performance not just for one race, but for the years ahead.
Project 58 isn't about starting again.
It's about building on everything I've learnt to become the best version of myself.
The New Focus
Over the next 12 months, my focus shifts to the Queensland Triathlon Series beginning in September.
Ironman Busselton in November 2027 remains a long-term goal, but there's no need to train specifically for an Ironman this far out from race day.
Instead, I'll be focusing on becoming a stronger, faster and more durable athlete — while enjoying the process along the way.
The Project 58 Weekly Blueprint
Each week will be built around consistency and sustainability.
- 🏊 3 swims
- 🚴 3 bikes
- 🏃 3 runs
- 🔁 1 brick session
- 💪 3 strength and conditioning sessions
- 😴 Monday — complete rest day
This structure gives me the right balance between performance, recovery and injury prevention.
The Five Pillars of Project 58
1. Endurance
Swimming, cycling and running remain the foundation — but every session will have a purpose. No more junk miles.
2. Strength
Strength training is no longer optional. Building muscle, improving balance and protecting against injury become increasingly important as we get older. This is the pillar that changes everything.
3. Mobility
Daily mobility work will help improve movement quality and reduce the risk of injuries that have plagued previous seasons.
4. Recovery
Recovery isn't something that happens between sessions.
Recovery is training.
Sleep, mobility, stretching and rest days are essential parts of the program — not afterthoughts.
5. Longevity
This may be the most important pillar of all.
I don't simply want to race at 58.
I want to remain active, healthy and adventurous for decades to come.
Why I'm Sharing This Publicly
One of the reasons I started documenting my journey was to show that life doesn't slow down after 50.
In many ways, it's only just beginning.
Project 58 isn't just about triathlon.
It's about showing what's possible when you commit to yourself, stay consistent and embrace the process.
If you're over 50 and wondering if it's too late to start something new, the answer is simple.
It's not.
In fact, this might be your best chapter yet.
Follow Along
Over the coming months, I'll be sharing regular Project 58 updates, including:
- Queensland Triathlon Series training and race reports
- Strength and conditioning progress
- Injury prevention strategies
- Recovery routines
- Health and longevity tips
- Behind-the-scenes life and adventures
- The build towards Ironman Busselton 2027
This isn't about perfection.
It's about progress.
One day better. Every day.
— Des Trindall Brisbane, Australia #Project58