Thursday, 01 October 2009

  • The Ironman Triathlon, Kona Hawaii



    If you are in superior shape or would like to watch people that fit the type, you might be interested in the Hawaii Ironman triathlon.

    Wikipedia best describes it as:

    An Ironman Triathlon is one of a series of long-distance triathlon races organized by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) consisting of a 2.4 miles (3.86 km) swim, a 112 miles (180.25 km) bike and a marathon (26 miles 385 yards, 42.195 km) run, raced in that order and without a break.

    It was made famous by its grueling length, harsh race conditions, and television coverage.

    Come again? That is absolutely insane. Especially without a break! Apparently, it began in 1978 as a debate of the fittest. Who is the strongest: Cyclist, runners or swimmers?

    The starting point of the race. Editors Note: I was there!!

    Besides the obvious difficulty in these grueling tasks, take into consideration the location. HAWAII.

    I was there in August and it was hot hot hot. On the island of Kona where the race passes, the reflecting sun on the lava rock makes temperatures feel up to 100 degrees.

    The prize: $100,000.
    http://triathlons.thefuntimesguide.com/images/blogs/hawaii-ironman-by-triitalian.jpg
    That is a pretty penny.

    Have you ever ran in a marathon? Do you think this race is impossible?


Comments (3)

  • Lordv16@xanga

    I have never run in a marathon, but I've seen this...and it's brutal!! I applaud whoever takes part in the iron man competition, win or lose.

    I'll never forget a couple years ago I watched the end of one. Two women were gunning for the finish, but both had nothing left. It was almost painful to watch as they tried to get to the finish line. Bodies frail, faces clenched, their running had devolved into an odd robotic jerk of each step. The finish was within jumping distance, but I recall it taking both at least 10min to get there.

    I can't imagine what it must be like...to see the finish a few feet away, victory within your grasp!! But your body just can't take anymore.

  • chow@ireallylikefood

    I've actually been training for this, for years now. 

    I don't know when I'll make an actual attempt though, it's super brutal.  The swim seems short, but the ocean currents take a lot out of you -- it's a lot different swimming in the ocean than in a pool.  The humidity and heat here makes it especially difficult too.

    I make the excuse a lot that I'm not built for this, and that my primary athletic training runs counter to this, but I don't want to make this kind of excuse as to why I can't complete this.  If a guy with no legs can do it, I should be able to, imo.

  • heyyuman@xanga

    I think it is possible! (if you have many time for training :P)


    and hi! Lordv16! are you saying this one??


    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTn1v5TGK_w

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