Min-Joon Choi is a real-life Ironman.
When he was undergoing surgery and treatments for colon cancer 12 years ago, he read Lance Armstrong’s autobiography – a story that inspired him to “live strong,” by training for and entering triathlon competitions.
Min-Joon, a homologation (SE&SE) manager in Ford South Korea, said triathlons – a combination of running, swimming and cycling – have strengthened his body, his mind, and his resolve to heal and remain healthy.
“I wanted to show myself overcoming cancer as the head of the household of my three daughters,” Min-Joon said. “And the good news is I was diagnosed as completely cured for the cancer two years ago, and now I'm continuing to do triathlons for my health.”
Min-Joon has competed in IRONMAN® events, in which participants run, swim and bike significantly longer distances than a regular triathlon. He entered his first IRONMAN competition in 2013, and, in 2022, participated in the IRONMAN 70.3 race in the Philippines. Min-Joon trains with legendary Korean triathlete Park Byung-hoon, a key figure in Korea’s IRONMAN community.
Triathlete training keeps Min-Joon physically healthy but also provides other benefits, such as relaxation.
He enjoys biking and running along the Han River, which flows into the middle of Seoul and has a beautiful view of S. Korea’s capital city.
“I especially like to run without thinking while looking at the scenery. This is the best way to relieve stress,” he said.
In many ways, his perspective on life mirrors that of his becoming a triathlete.
“I think life is like a marathon. In life, you may encounter difficult situation and fall down, but I think you can enter the finish line finally if you keep trying and challenging yourself,” he said. “Nothing is impossible. If you do your best to get what you want, you'll have it.”
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