My prediction is 1 day in Kona because “Kona”. It doesn’t appear IM is ready to move on from Kona as their WC and the biggest race of the year. And I don’t think the town is willing to accept 2 days. Could the town change their mind in a year or two? Potentially.
The slot allocation for a 1 day Kona will be interesting. I think there are 2 options:
- Normal slot allocation as previous years based on # of starters (typically ~80% male, ~20% female)
- A new slot allocation to allow more women but less men (eg; 50/50 or 60/40 split)
Either option is going to upset athletes regardless. If I had to put money on it, I would guess they go with option 1.