This weekend the Triathlon world has its eye on Kona. Saturday night European time, the world’s best long-distance triathletes compete for one of the most prestigious trophies of the sport at the Hawaii IronMan race. Completing the IM distance is trying as it is, in any circumstances; but what contestants are about to face in Hawaii is really among the most extremes. Let’s look at the factors that make it so:

 1. The ocean, which is far from quiet

In European races, neoprene wetsuits are generally allowed due to river and lake temperatures. This helps athletes complete the distance faster; in Hawaii, however, athletes cannot make use of this tiny advance either. The almost thermal-like, i.e. 28oC, temperature of the Pacific Ocean, the constant “fight” within the strong field, in the salty water and amongst the intense waves does not sound like the most pleasant way to get your morning kick.

 

Photo: alvisupitis.zenfolio.com

 2. Scorching heat

When mentioning Hawaii everyone tends to think about a wild and fun summer, and triathletes are no exception. While we might well be in for sleet or snow here, competitors are expected to put up with scorching sunlight. Although weather forecasts do not expect record heat, 30oC with 65-70% humidity is yet another story, equalling dry-weather 38 Celsius, which falls within the unbearable category, when most people hesitate even to step outside. All these topped with index 10 UV radiation, exposing competitors’ skin to constant burning. Csomor Era told me about how she practically removed her burned skin in pieces the size of her palm, even though she had applied sun protection.

 

3. Mumuku

A major feature of the Hawaiian Islands is the ferocious Mumuku winds, often hitting with hurricane-like force. Competitors will sure have their stories; let’s just say that this is one of the few places if not the only IM race in the world where the use of disk wheels is not allowed, as it would invite the wind to pick up and practically throw off riders.  As Kindl Gábor remembers, during last year‘s race the wind just blew his salt tablets out of his hand, which did not roll away but flew away instead.
Further inconvenience is the unpredictable intensity and direction of Mumuku. This is how Normann Stadler could have a nearly 20-minute difference between his cycling times throughout his 2004 and 2006 wins, though his fitness and condition was definitely not to blame.

 

 
4. Lava desert

If these alone are not enough, the islands have yet another peculiarity to add to challenges. Athletes of course won’t be running in asbestos boots in knee-high lava; the ground burns their feet (shoes) continuously due to active volcanic activity.

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5. Energy Lab

As the saying goes, IM starts with running. And indeed, the statement applies to Kona even more. At the furthest turning point of the run course, competitors run down to the Energy Lab, a huge energy farm that consists of solar collectors and constitutes one of the hardest stages during the race. Incredible heat, climbs, wind and the swimming, after completing the bike course, there is only a half marathon distance to go, but athletes need to draw on all their energy reserves, leaving the sea-level turning point and head upwards to eventually cross the finish line on the legendary Ali’i Drive all the way to glory.

Photo: 119hours.blogspot.pt