Ford Ironman World Championship Official Website

The "Nitty Gritty" Details (User Opinions)

Brett M.
San Francisco, CA

  (10-19-2011)

"I've been to Kona a few times to watch and this was my first as a participant. Full race report can be found here: http://clydesdaletriathlon.blogspot.com/2011/10/ironman-worl d-championship-2011.html

As for the nitty gritty of Kona, lets dive in.

Pre Race - You can't beat the energy around Kona and all the festivities that go on from the Underpants Run, Kids races, Espresso Bar, and Welcome Banquet. Make a schedule and check into sponsors twitter and blogs to find out all the different things to do. Don't overdo it as a racer though, but fun for the rest of your crew.

Swim - Most of the anxiety of this race comes down to this portion. Water had 3 foot swells in it for the race which threw a new curve into the mix, not normal. At the start it wasn't the wrestling match I've heard before. Spectators said they let us spread out more than in the past which could explain it. Once we got into deeper water the silt cleared and you could see the beautiful ocean people talk about. The salt water takes its toll on you with skin suits cutting with their seems (TYR suit).

Bike - Rolling with some climbs. Never enough to get you out of the saddle unless you wanted to. The crosswinds were down around Hawi, but it was still a stiff headwind on the climb to Hawi and a great tailwind. Route is well supported with almost too many aid stations. Drafting will occur in the first 20 miles, so either fight for clear air and stay legal, or let them pass you. Many penalties dished out.

Run - Ridiculous crowds for the first half, then sparse loneliness for the rest except for the great aid stations that try to one-up each other. Ali'i Drive is easy to get caught up with and burn out your legs if you have anything left after the bike. The grind to the Energy Lab can last forever as well as the way back. Energy Lab gets hot, but is the heart of the run course as it defines how your race will finish. Finishing was unlike anything I've seen before. If you race or spectate, make sure you go back for the last hour.
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Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2011