BME student Jacob Beldick pushes through extreme physical and mental challenges in a 320-mile quest for endurance and self-discovery.
The typical weekend for college students might include a long study session, a night out with friends, or perhaps a casual workout. For Georgia Tech biomedical engineering student Jacob Beldick, a recent weekend was spent pushing the limits of human endurance.
Over three grueling days, Beldick swam 6.2 miles, biked 261.4 miles, and ran a double marathon (52.4 miles) in the Ultraman Florida event — while managing nutrition, fatigue, and the mental battle that accompanies ultra-endurance racing. He’s now one of the youngest competitors to finish this extreme 320-mile triathlon.
“For me, it’s about pushing myself to the limits of my potential and seeing the kind of person I become as a result,” Beldick said. “I also love being around other people striving to be the best versions of themselves, and Ultraman provided the perfect blend of both. I met so many incredible people while facing a challenge that shaped me into a stronger, more capable version of myself.”
Competing in such an extreme event required more than a year of meticulous preparation, training that included long hours in the pool, on the bike, and on the track. But Beldick said the physical effort was only one component; extensive logistical planning, particularly around nutrition, was crucial.
“One of the biggest challenges in ultra racing is getting nutrition right,” the second-year student explained. “If you don’t manage your sugar and electrolyte levels correctly, your body will completely shut down. I tested over a dozen different nutrition plans before landing on what worked for me.”
The event starts with the full swim and 90 miles of bike riding on day one. Day two is all on the bike followed by the double marathon run on day three. While Beldick anticipated challenges, the race presented unexpected obstacles.
The first day’s swim proved especially tough due to high winds creating waves on what was supposed to be a calm lake course. Instead of the intended 6.2 miles, he ended up swimming more than 8 miles as he fought to stay on course.
Day two’s 171-mile bike ride came with another set of hardships. A flat tire, broken bike saddle, and severe lower back pain turned the ride into a battle of endurance and resilience.
“By hour seven, the pain was excruciating, and I still had several hours left. It was like driving across the country on an empty gas tank,” Beldick said. “The mental training I’ve done helped me push through what felt like an impenetrable wall of exhaustion. A big part of it was just accepting the suffering and focusing my energy on performing at the highest level, rather than on trying to alleviate pain that I knew was unavoidable.”
Beldick’s crew initially consisted of his parents, who had no prior experience supporting an ultra-triathlete. However, after the first day, a married couple with years of Ultraman experience joined to help with logistics. Their expertise proved invaluable in keeping him on track for the remaining two days.
It was an example of what Beldick said was one of the biggest surprises of the event: the camaraderie among athletes.
In most races, you’re competing against everyone else. But in Ultraman, it felt like we were all in this together. Athletes and crews helped each other out — it was like being part of a big family.
“In most races, you’re competing against everyone else. But in Ultraman, it felt like we were all in this together. Athletes and crews helped each other out — it was like being part of a big family.”
As he crossed the finish line, Beldick’s emotions ran high. Just weeks before the race, he had been uncertain whether he’d even be able to compete due to a limited training schedule. He was cleared just days before the race.
“I just felt gratitude. A week before, I thought my training over the past year would be for nothing,” he said. “Even though my performance may have been impacted by the time off, I was still incredibly proud of what I accomplished.”
Now that he has finished Ultraman Florida, Beldick has his sights set on future challenges. He qualified for the Ultraman World Championships in Hawaii, and he is also considering a 100-mile ultra run. However, due to the time-intensive training required, he’s waiting for the right moment to take on another endurance feat.
While endurance racing doesn’t directly tie into his biomedical engineering studies, he said the lessons he’s learned definitely apply to his academic and professional pursuits.
“Ultra racing has taught me persistence and how to handle extreme mental and physical challenges,” he said. “That same level of focus and discipline is essential for conducting valuable research or launching a startup. The ability to push through tough times while maintaining a clear head is a skill that carries over to all areas of life.”
(text and background only visible when logged in)
Related Content
Cassie Mitchell Pursues a 4th Paralympic Medal at Her 4th Straight Games
It may be harder than ever to medal this time, but the BME faculty member is also working harder than ever to make it happen.
Mechanical Engineering Student Bikes Across America
Baltimore-to-San Francisco ride raises money for teen cancer patients.