Pre-Race Guide for the Kona World Championships

Event Details

• The Race: The race will take place on Saturday October 26th, featuring a grueling 140.6-mile course starting with a 2.4-mile swim in Kailua Bay. Athletes then take on a 112-mile bike ride, battling crosswinds and elevation gains through the iconic lava fields on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway. Finally, they’ll complete a 26.2-mile run, culminating in a dramatic finish at Kailua Pier. This course tests endurance with challenging weather conditions, including potential heat and humidity, adding to Kona’s legendary reputation.

• Event Highlights: Athletes from over 90 countries will compete, representing the best triathletes in the world. Legends, wildcards, and dark horses will be present and eager to compete. The event kicked off with the Parade of Nations, celebrating the international diversity of participants. This is the place to be for IRONMAN glory.

• Conditions: Kona will be warm, with temperatures ranging from 80-90ºf and plenty of humidity to boot. There’s a chance of rain on race day too, which could make things plenty interesting. Athletes will need to be ready for the heat, literally.

Athletes To Watch

Ben Kanute (USA)

• Background: Ben Kanute is known for his versatility across triathlon distances, excelling in both short-course and long-course events. His ITU racing background gives him a strong swim and bike foundation, which translates well to a fast start.

• Strengths: Kanute's versatility across short and long-distance triathlons makes him a dangerous competitor in Kona. His strong swim and bike, combined with solid race-day tactics and agression, could help him stay with the lead pack.

• Kona Potential: His strength lies in his ability to race tactically and “at the front”. If he can hold strong on the bike, he’ll be a serious contender in the latter part and looking to push the pace.

Magnus Ditlev (Denmark)

• Background: The Danish powerhouse is a young athlete who has rapidly risen in the long-course triathlon ranks. Known for his dominant bike splits, Magnus has consistently put in strong performances at Ironman events.

• Strengths: Known for his powerful bike splits, Ditlev is one of the strongest cyclists in the field. He had an impressive 2024, including podium finishes in major Ironman events.

• Kona Potential: His ability to gain significant time on the bike could give him a decisive lead heading into the run, making him a serious contender for the title. Magnus's exceptional bike strength gives him the ability to break away early and dictate the pace. If he can maintain that lead and stay strong on the run, he’ll be a major threat in the top tier at Kona.

Lionel Sanders (Canada)

• Background: Lionel Sanders is a fan favorite due to his gritty racing style and remarkable history. Sanders transitioned to triathlon after overcoming real personal challenges and has become a multiple Ironman winner and consistent podium finisher.

• Strengths: Sanders is known for his resilience and incredible mental toughness. He has a strong run and can grind through tough conditions to stay in it. In 2024, Sanders had wins and podium finishes in IRONMAN 70.3.

• Kona Potential: With several top finishes in Kona over the years, Sanders is expected to be among the leaders, especially if he can come out of the water in a good position. Lionel is known for his ability to dig deep during the run, often making up time after a solid bike leg. If he can position himself well out of the water and stay close on the bike, he will be a top contender for the podium.

Cam Wurf (Australia)

• Background: Cam Wurf is a former professional cyclist who transitioned to triathlon, bringing with him unmatched bike prowess. He’s also an accomplished rower, making him one of the most unique and all-round athletes in the field.

• Strengths: A former professional cyclist, Wurf's strength lies in his ability to dominate the bike leg, often setting the fastest split. Over the years, he has improved his swim and run, making him a complete triathlete and one to watch.

• Kona Potential: If Wurf can hold his lead after the bike leg, or force competitors out of their comfort zone, and sustain a strong run, he could be a title contender. If he can continue that trend, he could find himself in a great position to challenge for the win.

Jackson Laundry (Canada)

• Background: Jackson is known as one of the most consistent IRONMAN 70.3 athletes in the world. Since 2017 he has raced over 40 IRONMAN 70.3s, making the podium on half of those occasions, including 5 wins.

• Strengths: While he doesn't typically dominate one discipline, Laundry excels at staying near the front during the swim and often competes strongly on the bike, which puts him in a good position to contend for the top spots heading into the run.

• Kona Potential: Jackson is a very well-rounded athlete with strength across all three disciplines. His ability to stay composed and in the right spot at the right time will make him someone to watch, especially if he can maintain through the challenging Kona course.