Rising Star: The Triathlon Journey of Dea Salsabila Putri

Meet Dea Salsabila Putri, a dedicated triathlete hailing from Sidoarjo, East Java, Indonesia. In the relatively short span since she began her triathlon journey in 2023, Dea has already left an indelible mark on the sport, particularly with her outstanding performance at the Sea Games 2023 and her recent victory at Ironman Bangsaen where she took 2nd place. As a sponsored Purpose elite triathlete in 2024, we caught up with her to find out more about her journey.

A Humble Beginning

Dea started triathlon in 2023, and her first race was at the Sea Games 2023 in Aquathlon. “I proudly brought home 1 silver and 1 bronze medal for Indonesia," she says with evident pride. From that auspicious debut, she has rapidly progressed to become a formidable force in the world of triathlons.

Fueling the Triathlon Passion

What fuels Dea's passion for triathlon? "The challenge of each different race," she affirms. It's the variety and complexity of the sport that keeps her engaged and motivated to push her limits. While Dea enjoys all three disciplines, swimming holds a special place in her heart due to her background with swimming from a young age.

Dea also harbors a significant dream – to participate in the Olympics for Indonesia. "I have one unfulfilled dream, which is to be able to participate in the Olympics for my country and become a more accomplished professional triathlon athlete who remains humble. I aim to do my best in every race," she says, revealing the fire that propels her forward.

Triathlon Triumphs and Challenges

Every athlete encounters highs and lows. For Dea, the Sea Games 2023 stands out as a favorite, while the Bintan Triathlon 2023 presented a formidable challenge. "During the Bintan Triathlon 2023, my brakes were out of oil," she reveals, emphasizing the resilience required in the face of setbacks.

Dea's pre-race ritual involves meticulous preparation. "I must try all the equipment during training that will be used in the race," she notes, underscoring the importance of familiarity and confidence in her gear.

Dea dispels the notion that triathlon is an easy sport. "Maybe triathlon looks easy; in reality, it's a sport that requires high dedication to maintain performance," she asserts, shedding light on the rigorous demands of the discipline.

If Dea were to describe herself in one word, it would be "brave," epitomizing the courage required to conquer challenges in both sport and life.

The Triathlon Balancing Act

With an unwavering dedication to training, Dea faces the challenge of maintaining a balance between triathlon, family, and college. "I dedicate all my time to training, but I find alternatives to keep all three going. Weekends are for family, and I organize college time in between training," she explains, showcasing her commitment to harmony in all aspects of life.

Beyond Triathlon

Beyond the triathlon track, Dea has participated in marathons in several countries, showcasing her versatility and love for endurance sports.

Dea's dreams extend beyond the borders of Indonesia. "I want to live in Indonesia and in Perth, Australia," she envisions, contemplating the global possibilities that triathlon can offer.

As Dea Salsabila Putri continues to carve her path in the world of triathlons, her journey stands as a testament to passion, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. Indonesia's rising star is on the ascent, promising more exhilarating feats in the years to come.