Get Ready for the 2024 IRONMAN World Championship in Kona!
Get Ready for the 2024 IRONMAN World Championship in Kona!
As the sun rises over the majestic Hualālai, the crystal clear waters of Kailua Bay prepare to welcome a cadre of elite athletes for the VinFast IRONMAN World Championship on October 26, 2024. This year, the spotlight is on the men's competition, following a gender-split format initiated last year due to the increasing number of participants. Defending champion Sam Laidlow of France is just one of the 56 elite triathletes vying for the title in a fiercely competitive field.
Community Events Leading Up to Race Day
Before the main event, the spirit of community shines through with several engaging activities:
- Ironkids Keiki Dip-n-Dash: On Tuesday at 4 p.m. at Ka’ahumanu Place, children aged 6 to 14 can participate in this fun race, fostering early interest in triathlon. Registration is open on the same day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort.
- Parade of Nations: Also on Tuesday, starting at 5 p.m., this vibrant parade features athletes from around the globe and runs along Aliʻi Drive, from the Kona Beach Resort to Hale Hālāwai, celebrating the international spirit of the event.
- Ironman Foundation UnderPants Run: A quirky and beloved tradition since 1998, this event kicks off at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday in the back parking lot of the Kona Beach Resort. It's a light-hearted protest against inappropriate Speedo use that has evolved into a pre-race icebreaker and fundraiser, amassing over $360,000 for local causes.
Race Day Overview
The competition begins at 6:25 a.m. HST with a 2.4-mile swim in Kailua Bay, followed by a challenging 112-mile bike ride that takes athletes up the Ka‘ahumanu Highway to Hawī, with its significant elevation gains and potential crosswinds. The race concludes with a 26.2-mile run through Kona, up Palani Road and along Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway, before athletes make their triumphant return down Ali‘i Drive to the finish line at Kailua Pier.
Viewing and Following the Event
For those who can’t attend in person, live coverage will be available on Ironman’s YouTube channel and Facebook page, ensuring fans worldwide won’t miss a moment of this exhilarating event.
Important Notices for Residents and Visitors
Please note significant road closures from October 24 to 27, including Ka‘ahumanu Place and sections of Ali‘i Drive, to accommodate the race. Detailed information on these closures is crucial for planning travel and activities around Kona during the event.
VIP Experience and Live Tracking
Enhance your race day experience with the IRONMAN VIP Spectator package, offering exclusive viewing spots, hospitality, and more. For real-time race updates, download the Ironman Tracker app, available on both Apple and Google Play stores, which provides live tracking and results.
Community Impact
The race also necessitates temporary closures of local facilities like the Kealakehe Recycling and Transfer Station and the West Hawai‘i Sanitary Landfill on race day, with operations resuming shortly after.
As Kona becomes the world stage for one of the most grueling endurance tests in sports, the 2024 IRONMAN World Championship promises to be a spectacle of human tenacity and spirit. Whether participating, spectating, or cheering from afar, it’s an event that captures the heart of the athletic community and the broader spirit of the Big Island.
When is the 2024 Ironman World Championship taking place in Kona?
The 2024 Ironman World Championship in Kona is scheduled for October 26, 2024.
What are the key events before the Ironman race day?
Before the race day, key events include the Ironkids Keiki Dip-n-Dash, the Parade of Nations, and the UnderPants Run.
What is the starting time for the Ironman triathlon on race day?
The Ironman triathlon starts at 6:25 a.m. HST on race day.
Where are the best spots to watch the Ironman race?
The seawall is a great spot to watch the swim start in Kailua Bay, and spectators often line the run and bike courses on Ali‘i Drive, Palani Road, and Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway.
How can I track the Ironman athletes live?
You can track the Ironman athletes live by downloading the Ironman Tracker mobile app, which features a Live Results function and real-time participant status updates.
What are the race day road closures for the Ironman event?
Race day road closures include roads like Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway, Ali‘i Drive, and Palani Road, among others, with specific timings for each closure. Some roads will be closed from midnight on October 24 until 3 p.m. on October 27, while others have more limited closures during the race.
Are there any solid waste facility closures on race day?
Yes, the Kealakehe Recycling and Transfer Station, Reuse Center, and HI-5 Redemption, as well as the West Hawai‘i Sanitary Landfill, will be closed on October 26 due to road closures for the Ironman World Championship. Services will resume on October 27 and 28, respectively.
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