I’m watching the IronMan live coverage of the finish line on the 'net and it’s around the 10-hour mark (so they’re no slouches) and I’m hearing a lot of “first time finisher” or “you’re an IronMan…” by the announcer. Don’t you have to qualify for IronMan Hawaii?
And about the race… two observations:
Great race with the girls!
One of the coolest things is watching the age-groupers cross the line with their kids in hand, on shoulders, in strollers (although some of the little ones are not looking very impressed with what mom/dad just did, LOL!).
You dont have to qualify to get in, there are lottery spots, as most of the 15-17 hour competitors are.
Howver, what i think he is referring to, is first time @ IMHawaii. i was reading an article on xtri and mike reilley likes to say that to everyone, regardless if its their first time or not.
Reilly says, “Congratulations, you’re an Ironman!” to every finisher that he can, even if it’s their tenth one.
All but about 150 people there earned their spot; most of the rest (lottery) represent those of us that didn’t qualify. I think it’s great that lottery people are there doing the race.
I sure like the lottery slots better than “if you’re rich enough you can buy one on e-bay” slots. The idea of luck of the draw at least makes if fair for everyone. Just my opinion guys.
Julian is right–Mike (or Whit or ?-I’m spacing on his name) says “You are an Ironman” to everyone, no matter how many times they have been to Kona. If they say first-time IM, it usually means first time in Kona, but there were a few folks who were racing their very first ever IM yesterday (lottery or other means of entry).