On October 13th, over 2,000 athletes will embark on a 140.6-mile journey that presents the ultimate test of body, mind and spirit to earn the title of IRONMAN. It takes place on the Big Island of Hawaii in Kailua-Kona. The swim segment begins and ends at Kailua Pier. The bike race travels north on the Kona Coast through scorching lava fields and then along the Kohala Coast to the small village of Hawi, returning along the same route to transition. The marathon course travels through Kailua-Kona and on to the same highway, the Queen Ka’ahumanu, used for the bike course. Athletes then run back into Kailua-Kona, coming down Ali’i Drive to the cheers of thousands of spectators at the finish line. Participants spend on average 18 and 30-plus hours per week to prepare for the competition. Athletes must be at least 18 years all to take part in the race. Sportsmen compete against other sportsmen in the same age division.