The good vibes at the IRONMAN Kona press conference.
This Saturday, the World Cup HOMBRE DE HIERRO Kona will be one of the most competitive races in recent years.
During the press conference held yesterday, Kristian Blummenfelt, Gustav Iden, Sam Laidlow, Magnus ditlev y Patrick Lange They showed a relaxed and “good vibe” atmosphere, despite the imminent pressure of the race.
One of the highlights was starring Kristian Blummenfelt, the Tokyo Olympic champion and winner in St. George.
Wearing a bison hat, Blummenfelt showed his sense of humor as he talked about his preparation for the competition: “I'm the favorite, but that just means I have to work even harder.“, commented the Norwegian athlete, making it clear that victory is not achieved without effort.
The conversation between the athletes highlighted how the sport has evolved in recent years. Sam Laidlow, last year's champion, said: “We're all trying to keep up."
Aware of the pressure that comes with his title, Laidlow said his focus is on “maintaining balance” in his personal and sporting life.
His experience has taught him that, beyond achievements, personal satisfaction is essential: “I just have to keep doing what I do best.".
Patrick Lange, two-time world champion, also took part in the dialogue, pointing out that the rivalry with the Norwegian athletes has raised the level of triathlon and that he arrives at the event “with nothing to prove.”With Gustav Iden y Kristian Blummenfelt, there is always a constant challenge. Every year, the level of competition seems to increase“said Lange, who finished second in the last edition in Nice.
According to Magnus ditlev, who finished in eighth place in the 2022 edition, “it's great to see that all the competitors can enjoy themselves like this instead of just focusing on the victory.”
The circuit in Kona
The Kona Ironman is known for both its challenging course and its stunning scenery.
Triathletes must complete 3.8 km swimming, 180.2 km by bike and finish with a 42.2 km marathon, all under weather conditions that can be adverse.
The high temperature and humidity of the place are factors that will test even the most trained.
Favorites for Victory
Despite the apparent harmony between the competitors, the fight for the podium promises to be intense. Blummenfelt y Iden They arrive as favorites, with an arsenal of triumphs that few can match.
However, laidlow, Ditlev, and Swaddle They are not far behind and will undoubtedly be fighting for the title.
Strategy will be the key for such a long and demanding day. Ditlev has hinted that he will not be afraid to attack laidlow on the bike, a tactic that could be crucial to the development of the race.
laidlow, for his part, has defined a margin of advantage that he considers necessary to ensure victory: four minutes if the pace of the bike is not too aggressive, and six minutes if the race becomes more intense.
The Countdown to Ironman Kona 2024
The countdown has begun and everything is ready for the big date in Kona and the Spaniard Antonio Benito will be together with more than 50 professionals on the starting line
Where to see it live?
This consultation link How to watch the test live