 The Ironman is the premier triathalon in the world. It is the one every serious ironperson attempts to qualify for. Qualification triathalons are held during the year at locations around the world. It is also the most difficult as extremely strong winds are present during much if not all of the bike event. Almost always, there are very strong head winds on the way out. These winds reverse during the day and causing the participants to experience head winds just as strong on the way in. Participants get blown off their bikes every year. One year the women's division winner got blown off twice. In addition there is the heat to contend with. We get some unusual happenings also. Several years ago, dolphins cavorted with the swimmers. That year swim times were understandably a little slow. The photos were shot by various club members. The swim is 2+ miles, the bike, 112 miles (yes) and the run, a marathon, 26.2 miles. Record time for the Ironman is a little over 8 hours. |
