Facts on the World Ironman Triathlon

For many, just the thought of exercise is enough to tire them out. Image a swim, a bike ride and then a marathon done consecutively and at your fastest speed. The World Ironman Triathlon is one of the fiercest and most grueling competitions in the world.

  1. History

    • The World Ironman Triathlon debuted on February 18, 1978 in Honolulu, Hawaii. It all began when a crowd of Navy Seals debated over who was the best athlete. United States Navy Commander John Collins coined the term IronMan when he declared the winner of the rough water swim, the bike race and the Honolulu marathon would be honored with the title.

    Significance

    • The Ironman World Championship is held annually in Kailua-Kon, Hawaii. Since 1982, it has been held in the fall. Prior to that, from its inception until 1982, it took place in the spring. This competition is the most prestigious triathlon.

    The Swim

    • The first leg of the event is the swim. The swim takes place in Kailua-Kona Bay and is 2.4 miles long.

    The Bike

    • The 112-mile bike ride follows the swim. The course is through the Hawaiian lava desert to Hawi and then back.

    The Marathon

    • The 26.2 mile marathon is run along the coast of the Big Island from Keauhou to Keahole Point onto Kailua Kona. Runners finish on Ali'i Drive.

    Entry

    • Entry in the World Ironman Competition is done by lottery. U.S. applicants are allotted 150 lottery slots and 50 slots are awarded to international athletes. Selected athletes must complete validated races and distances within one year of the event. The qualifying series includes 22 worldwide events.