Weather: Contestants cannot escape the equator-strength sun, but that's not even their chief concern. Swirling winds -- called ho'o mumuku by native Hawaiians -- can rage between 25 and 45 miles per hour, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour. During the 2001 event, a few participants were actually blown off their bikes. Two-time Ironman champion Luc Van Lierde said, "You need to respect the weather conditions here - they are stronger than you are."
Fire: Madame Pele, goddess of fire and volcanos in the ancient Polynesian tradition, has had an important role in the Ironman. She is unpredictable, but you can count on one thing: Take a lava rock souvenir from her island, and your race will suffer until you return it. Just ask Mark Allen and Greg Welch.
Ice: Snow typically falls on the summit of Mauna Kea from January through March. With snow drifts reaching six feet, some Hawaii surfers head to the summit for snowboarding.
NELHA: Short for the "Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii Authority," this four mile out and back section of the marathon course crowns champions and crushes would be contenders at the same time. When contestants enter this barren lavascape from Kona's main highway, they have no protection from the midday sun. It's like entering a real-life Dante's inferno.
Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy: Ironman's main arena, the Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway is commonly called the Queen K. It cuts a snake-like path through the 100 year old lava beds that give much of the West Hawaii coastline a moon-like appearance.
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Tomorrow is game time. My keys to success are:
Respect the Distance
Respect the Weather
Enjoy the Experience
Smile at the Finish
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