After months of preparation, race day finally arrived. Despite a touch of jet lag, I woke up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the challenge. Transition opened at 5:30 a.m., giving me plenty of time to set up before my swim wave at 7:40.
Swim: Into the Blue
The atmosphere at transition was electric. I pumped my tires, organized nutrition, and double-checked gear before transition closed. Watching top pros like Lucy Charles and Taylor Knibb finish their swim was inspiring and added to the anticipation. When the gun finally went off, the water was alive with energy—and marine life beneath us. A few gear hiccups slowed me down early on, but rounding the boat at the turn point was unforgettable: crystal-clear water, scuba divers far below, bubbles rising like champagne. The return leg felt faster as I focused on long, efficient strokes and used the ocean swells to my advantage.
Bike: Battling the Queen K
The ride started strong. After a short climb and descent through town, I settled onto the Queen K, aiming to control my power output. Aid stations were well-stocked early on, and I stayed diligent with hydration and cooling strategies. But around 70 km, things got tough. The climb to Hawi was windy, and after the turnaround, disaster struck—my front hydration unit fell off during the descent. Losing those calories forced me to adapt quickly, conserving water and relying on beef jerky for fuel. Later aid stations ran low on supplies, and the heat took its toll. My feet ached, swelling inside my shoes, and every pedal stroke hurt. Still, I kept moving forward, determined to finish. Pushing through the heat and wind on the iconic Queen K Highway.
Run: Finding Strength in the Struggle
Transitioning to the run felt like a reset. Seeing my parents at 6 km lifted my spirits, even as the distance ahead loomed large. I broke the marathon into manageable chunks, staying consistent with ice and gels. The Energy Lab was a highlight—calm, beautiful, and bathed in sunset light. But the final stretch on the Queen K was a mental grind. Darkness fell, reflective markers blurred, and fatigue set in. Even with 4 km to go, I found myself walking at times, just willing my legs forward.
Digging deep during the marathon, with the Energy Lab ahead.
The Finish
Then came Palani. Turning down that hill, knowing the finish was near, gave me one last surge. Light rain kissed my face as I rounded onto Ali’i Drive. The crowd’s energy was electric. I raised my arms at the finish—just as my coach had reminded me—and crossed the line, exhausted but elated.
The moment every athlete dreams of—crossing the IRONMAN World Championship finish line.
Reflections
Initially, I felt frustrated, questioning why my mind and body didn’t fully align. But with perspective, I realized the day was humbling and transformative. Kona taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of perseverance. I finished—and that, in itself, is a victory.
