"THE IRONMAN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS" - KAILUA-KONA, HAWAII - OCTOBER 10: The first Ironman Triathlon was held on February 18, 1978 in Honolulu, Hawaii, and even though the location was moved to the Big Island in 1981 the race format remains unchanged, and the Hawaiian Ironman is still regarded as the most honored and prestigious triathlon event to win worldwide. Although thousands of professional and amateur athletes from all nations compete in an Ironman event each year, only very talented athletes realistically compete for a spot in Hawaii, and just finishing an Ironman race is often the highlight of many triathletes' career. Athletes with disabilities now compete in the event in the physically challenged category, and are required to meet the same cutoff times as able bodied competitors. Considered one of the most grueling races in the world, competitors must endure “ho’ o mumuku” crosswinds over 45 mph, 95 degree temperatures in the lava fields and a scorching sun in completing a 3.86 km swim, 180.2 km bike, and a 42.2 km marathon within an 17 hour time cutoff to be called an "Ironman".
