Meet Ray: Triathlete, Entrepreneur & Family Man

Meet Ray Rorimpandey, a 53-year-old entrepreneur from Jakarta, Indonesia. Ray works in the oil and gas supply industry and also owns a couple of dive resorts in North Sulawesi. He's married to Frisca Hutapea, a triathlete who competes in Ironman and Oceanman competitions. Together, they have three children: their eldest daughter is an engineer in Hawaii, their son is studying at Purdue University in Indiana, and their youngest daughter is in 8th grade in Indonesia.

Rediscovering Sports: Ray's Journey into Triathlon

Ray's journey into triathlon began in 2014 when he returned to swimming after a long hiatus since 1990, when he last competed for his country. By 2015, he was diving into cycling and running, combining these activities with his other hobbies like snowboarding, scuba diving, and golf. The following year, Ray participated in the Bali Triathlon and found himself hooked on the sport.

"Sport has always been a big part of my life, teaching me valuable lessons like competition, discipline, commitment, and fairness," Ray shares. He's proud to pass these lessons on to his children, showing them how sports can enrich their lives and help them grow.

Race Accomplishments: Highlights and Future Goals

Ray has participated in various races, including several 5K, 10K, and half marathon events in Indonesia, and about 15 triathlon races. His triathlon experience includes seven 70.3 Ironman races and two full Ironman races. He's also competed in swimming events across Indonesia, Japan, and Hong Kong, as well as Oceanman Bali.

Most recently, Ray participated in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon in June 2024 and will be gearing up for the Maybank Marathon in Bali and the Berlin Marathon in September 2024. He's also contemplating another Ironman race by the end of the year.

Ray no longer aims to be a highly competitive athlete as he was during his younger years. Today, he sees himself as a recreational triathlete, using the sport to stay in shape and unwind from daily stresses. "It's important for me to set an example for our kids," he says. Ray wants to show them that commitment, discipline, and courage are essential in life, and these values can be learned through sports.

Training Challenges in Jakarta: Finding Solutions

Training in Jakarta comes with its challenges, particularly finding suitable roads for cycling due to heavy traffic and air pollution. To overcome these obstacles, Ray and other triathletes turn to indoor cycling. This practical solution helps maintain fitness and endurance without the risks associated with outdoor cycling in the city. Additionally, focusing on running training allows him to continue preparing for races while avoiding the difficulties of urban cycling.

A Commitment to His Purpose

Ray's motivation to become a Purpose athlete stems from his genuine love for Purpose products. "Their clothing not only features stylish designs but also offers a variety of options that perfectly support my sporting activities," he says. Representing Purpose allows him to authentically showcase how their apparel enhances his performance and supports his passion for sports.

Ray also hopes to inspire others by racing with Purpose - pun intended. "Wearing the Purpose brand can help attract more young people to both my sports and church communities," he explains. By promoting this brand, Ray aims to encourage others to stay active and embrace an active lifestyle.

Advice for Newbie Triathletes 

For those new to endurance sports, Ray emphasizes the broader life lessons that triathlon teach, such as commitment, discipline, and courage. These traits are valuable not only in sports but also in family life, work, and personal growth. "The lessons we learn from triathlon can make a big difference in all areas of our lives," Ray advises.

Beyond Triathlon 

Beyond triathlon, Ray's hobbies include snowboarding, scuba diving, and golf. He and his wife love to travel and incorporate their passions into their trips, whether it's hitting the slopes, exploring underwater worlds, or enjoying a round of golf in beautiful destinations. These activities add excitement and fulfillment to their journeys.

Ray's story is a testament to the power of sports in shaping one's life and character. His dedication to triathlon, balanced with his roles as an entrepreneur and family man, serves as an inspiration to those around him.