On February 18, 2023 it will be exactly 45 years since the Ironman Hawaii was held for the first time. The event, originally planned as a personal challenge for the first 15 incorrigible participants, has long since become a mass phenomenon. The Hawaiian myth hovers over the global triathlon community and outshines the entire sport.
Synonymous with an entire sport
Ironman Hawaii – for people who are less interested in triathlon, this is often considered a synonym for the sport itself. The decision that Ironman should host the long-distance world championships – for various reasons – from this year until at least 2026 with separate starting fields for men and women, alternating alongside Hawaii is held in Nice is not well received everywhere. Quite a few fear that the myth could be buried with the current developments.
Four athletes explain what the race means to them
The challenges and the atmosphere of the race on the Pacific island are just different. The moment when athletes have crossed this magical finish line in daylight or in the dark – whether running, walking upright or even crawling on all fours with the last ounce of strength, is a very special one. But what exactly does the Ironman Hawaii mean for its protagonists? We asked four former world champions who have had a decisive influence on the race in recent years or decades.
A special race that faces an endurance test
Reactions ranged from “birth of triathlon” to “myth” to comparison with the “moon landing”. Words that emphasize the importance of this competition in a special place. There is a unanimous tenor: The Ironman Hawaii is a special race. Which is currently facing an endurance test, but should if possible be preserved for generations of athletes in its well-known and inspiring form.
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