Course
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Where can I find a map of the race course?
Swim, bike and run maps are available in the “Course” section of the Web site.

What nutrition will be available on course?
There will be 11 aid stations along the bike course offering:

• IRONMAN Perform
• Water
• Bananas
• Bonk Breaker Bars
• GU Original Energy Gels
• Roctane Ultra Endurance Gels
• GU Chomps

There will be aid stations approximately every mile on the run course offering:

• IRONMAN Perform
• Water
• Bananas
• Bonk Breaker Bars
• GU Original Energy Gels
• Roctane Ultra Endurance Gels
• GU Chomps
• Chicken Broth
• Pretzels
• Fruit

Where does the  Ironman World Championship take place?
The Ironman World Championship 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.

Qualification/Registration
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I qualified at an event and would like to print out my 2012 qualification certificate. How do I that?
Qualification certificates are available online at www.ironmanworldchampionship.com/athletes/qaulified and athletes will be able to print a customized, full-color certificate.

Why is my name not on the Qualified Athletes List?
The Qualified Athletes List for the 2012 Ironman World Championship is not live, it is updated periodically.  Please confirm your registration by contacting worldchampionship@ironman.com, or by downloading your finisher’s certificate at (link).

Where can I find more information on the qualification and registration process?
Please visit the “Qualification” section of the website for more information.

Merchandise
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Who is the contact for the official merchandise?
For inquiries about merchandise, please E-mail  orders@ironman.com

Who do I contact regarding official race photos?
FinisherPix is the official race photographer.  For more information, or to order photos, click here.

How can I get a copy of previous Ironman World Championship shows?
Log on to www.ironmanstore.com to purchase previous Ironman World Championship DVDs.

Media
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Who do I contact for media-related inquiries?
Media@ironman.com

Race Week Events & Banquets
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What is the race week schedule?
Please check the schedule of events on the race website and refer to the Athlete Information Guide which will be posted two months prior to race day.

Can family members and/or friends check-in for me and pick-up my race packet?
No, only registered athletes are allowed into athlete check-in. Please bring your photo ID and USAT card (if applicable) during designated check-in hours.

Will my entry include banquet tickets?
Yes. All athletes receive complimentary entry into the Awards Banquet and Welcome Dinner with their athlete wristband.

How do I purchase tickets for family and friends?
Additional tickets will be available to purchase online prior to the event. Please continue to check back for more information.

General
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Where will Lost and Found be located during the event?
Lost and Found items will be available at the Information Tent during race week. It is recommended that you mark your gear with your race number as Ironman is not responsible for lost items.

After the conclusion of the event, please contact athleteservices@ironman.com to locate any missing items and schedule returns. Shipping fees will apply.

*All unclaimed items will be donated within 30 days.

Rules
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*International athletes that are not wearing a CPSC certified helmet will need to sign a waiver on-site at athlete check-in

Where do I find general race information and rules?
Information and rules will be made available in the coming weeks.

Where can I find information about Ironman policies?
More information will be made available in the coming weeks.

What is the Age Group breakdown?

• 18-24
• 25-29
• 30-34
• 35-39
• 40-44
• 45-49
• 50-54
• 55-59
• 60-64
• 65-69
• 70-74
• 75-79
• 80+

Why do I have to be a member of USAT or buy a one-day license, and what does that insurance cover?

USA Triathlon will sanction the Ironman World Championship. To complete the online registration process, athletes will need to enter their USAT annual license number or purchase a one-day license ($12.00 USD) during online registration. Athletes must bring their photo identification and show proof of current USAT membership during Athlete Check-In. If you cannot produce the above mentioned, you will be required  to purchase a one-day license on-site. Please visit http://www.usatriathlon.org/pages/668 for a complete set of the competitive rules.

Are disk wheels allowed?
No, disk wheels are NOT allowed at the Ironman World Championship.

USAT
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Frequently Asked Questions about USA Triathlon

1. Will Ironman races be included in USAT’s national rankings?
Yes, all Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events in 2010 will be included in USAT’s national rankings.

2. Non-members: Can I apply the $12 one-day license fee paid at an Ironman event towards a USAT annual membership?
Yes, the $12 fee may be applied to a USAT annual membership. Please contact USAT direct to upgrade your membership.

3. I am not an annual USAT member but plan to register for an Ironman or Ironman 70.3 event. How much are the one-day fees at these Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events?
There is a $12 one-day license fee at all Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events.

4. I am an annual USAT member. Will I be required to complete any additional paperwork before I can participate in an Ironman or Ironman 70.3 event?
Those who are annual members will not be required to fill out additional USAT paperwork. All athletes must present their USAT membership card at athlete check-in.

5. What age group will I compete in on the day I race in an Ironman and/or Ironman 70.3 event?
Starting in 2009, the  Ironman World Championship and all qualifying events will implement both the International Triathlon Federation and USA Triathlon’s Age Group Competition rule: All age group athletes must compete in the age group division corresponding to the athlete’s age on December 31 of the year of the event.

6. Do Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events have different rules for penalty enforcement?
Yes. Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events have applied for and been granted dispensation on several areas of rules and penalty enforcement. These rules and their enforcement will be consistent throughout all Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events. Participants will receive regular communication and guidance from race directors and referees regarding these rules.

Does USAT offer medical Coverage?

The athlete excess medical coverage protects each participant for the day of the event at USAT sanctioned races, camps and clinics. When athletes purchase a USAT annual license or one day permit, a portion of those fees cover the cost to provide them with excess medical insurance. This coverage only extends to their participation in an USA Triathlon sanctioned event and is only available after the injured party has filed with any primary insurance policies. A deductible does apply for this excess coverage.

If an athlete is injured while participating in a USA Triathlon sanctioned event the following steps must be followed:

•      Athletes must file with their primary healthcare provider (i.e. United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, traveler’s insurance, etc.).

•      Athlete completes a medical claim form.

•      For serious incidents or for athletes requesting coverage, either the race director or USAT can provide them with a medical claim form. The medical claim form along with all explanation of benefit documents should be sent directly from the athlete to the insurance company as indicated on the claim form. Please email sanction@usatriathlon.org for a copy of the form.

•      Athletes will pay a deductible.  All claimants will pay anywhere from $250 USD (two-hundred and fifty U.S. dollars) to $1,000 USD (one thousand U.S. dollars) out of pocket and possibly more for uncovered expenses.

Be advised that coverage may not apply to each and every claim.  Additionally, coverage only extends to participants that have purchased an USA Triathlon annual license or one-day permit and were injured through participation in an USA Triathlon sanctioned event. Please email questions to sanction@usatriathlon.org

Swimwear Policy
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What are the current legal swimwear/speedsuits?
Effective September 1, 2010, all swimwear/speedsuits at Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events MUST be comprised of 100% textile material such as nylon or lycra and may not include rubberized material such as polyurethane or neoprene.  Swimwear/speedsuits may NOT cover the neck or extend past the shoulders or knees.  Swimwear/speedsuits may contain a zipper. A race kit or trisuit may be worn underneath swimwear/speedsuits.

What are the new rules regarding swimwear/speedsuits?
Effective September 1, 2010, the following guidelines will apply to swimwear/speedsuits in non-wetsuit swims:

• Swimwear/speedsuits MUST be comprised of 100% textile material such as nylon or lycra and may not include rubberized material such as polyurethane or neoprene.
• Swimwear/speedsuits may NOT cover the neck or extend past the shoulders or knees.
• Swimwear/speedsuits may contain a zipper.
• A race kit or trisuit may be worn underneath swimwear/speedsuits.

What swimwear/speed suits are allowed after September 1, 2010?

The following swimwear has been approved by Ironman to date. (This list is NOT all-inclusive. If your suit is NOT on this list and you do NOT know whether your suit is 100% textile material, please contact the manufacturer.)
*Please continue to check back for updates

De Soto
Micro Tri Short – Femme
Liftfoil Speed Trisuit (non-rubberized)
Forza ITU Trisuit
78 Degree Swim Top
Forza Tri Short
Forza Tri Short Low Rise
Forza Riviera Tri Short
Carrera Tri Short
Carrera Tri Short Low Rise

Profile Design
Mako TXT

Skinfit
Speedsuit II
Plasma

TYR
Torque Pro
Torque Elite
Tracer C Series
Tracer B series
Tracer Light
Fusion2
Aquashift
Aquapel

Xterra Wetsuits
Velocity-M
Velocity-Y

Zoot
CompressRx Speedsuit

Rocket Science Sports
FU Racer
Rocket Racer
Elite Racer
RJ Racer

Zerod
oSuit
iSuit
uSuit

Blueseventy
PZ3-TX

Kiwami
The Amphibian
The Konami
The Trinergy

Wetsuit Policy
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What is the current wetsuit rule?
Effective September 1, 2010, at all Ironman and Ironman 70.3 events the following changes to our current wetsuit rule will apply:

• Wetsuits cannot measure more than 5 millimeters thick. A standard variance will be allowed to account for seams and jersey material (non-buoyant).
• Wetsuits are permitted if the water temperature is up to (and including) 76.1 degrees Fahrenheit (24.5 degrees Celsius) or colder.
• Wetsuits will be prohibited in water temperatures greater than 83.8 degrees Fahrenheit (28.8 degrees Celsius).
• Athletes who choose to wear a wetsuit in water temperatures between 76.1 degrees Fahrenheit (24.5 degrees Celsius) and 83.8 degrees Fahrenheit (28.8 degrees Celsius)will not be eligible for awards, including World Championship slots.
• Full wetsuits are permitted (arms and legs covered).

Which wetsuits will be prohibited after Sept. 1, 2010?
The following wetsuit has been prohibited by Ironman:

• De Soto Water Rover wetsuit is PROHIBITED

*Please continue to check back for updates

How will your new wetsuit rule be enforced?
Race Officials will monitor the transition area and swim venue on race morning.  Athletes caught using a wetsuit on the list of prohibited wetsuits will be DQd.

Can Age Group athletes wear a wetsuit that is on the prohibited list, even if they are not pursuing awards or entry slots for the Ironman World Championship/Ironman World Championship 70.3?
No.  Athletes are never permitted to wear a wetsuit on the list of prohibited wetsuits.  However, athletes can chose to wear a legal wetsuit in water temperatures between 24.5 degrees Celsius/76.1 degrees Fahrenheit and 28.8 degrees Celsius/ 83.8 degrees Fahrenheit, with the understanding that they will not be eligible for awards and/or World Championship slots.

Are neoprene swim socks illegal?
Neoprene socks are allowed ONLY when the water temperature is 18.8 degrees Celcius/65 degrees Fahrenheit or colder.

 

Spectator Information
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Can I take my car on the race course to watch my athlete?
No, the race course is closed to spectator traffic.

Will I be allowed to cross the finish line with my athlete?
Friends and/or family members are not permitted to cross the finish line or enter the finish chute with participating athletes. This policy allows each competitor adequate time to celebrate their accomplishment without interfering with other finishers and ensures the safety of all participants, volunteers and fans. Athletes who choose not to respect the policy will receive an automatic disqualification (DQ).

Will I be allowed into the finish line area to greet my athlete?
Unfortunately, due to high congestion in the finish line area, no spectators will be allowed. Please do not try to gain access to this area, as it must remain clear for the safety of the athletes. Before the event, you and your athlete should decide on a meeting place for after they have finished.

Will I be allowed into the medical tent to look for my athlete if they have not arrived at our meeting destination?
The Medical Tent is highly congested and spectators will not be allowed in. There will be a Medical Information Tent next to the Medical Tent, where medical updates will be available on athletes who are being treated.

What is the Ironman Village?
The Ironman Village features various booths including a showcase of the Ironman Store, Ironman Bike Shop and Ironman exhibitors, as well as many other services and products. The Ironman Village also houses a Demo Day area, which is the premier spot to see and test new products from all the top manufacturers. It provides a perfect gathering and meeting place for athletes and spectators.

Timing
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What are the courses cut off times?
Competitors have 17 hours to finish the race, and cutoff times are applied to each segment.

• The swim course cutoff is 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• The bike course cutoff is 10 hours and 30 minutes.
• The run course and the finish line cutoff is 17 hours (midnight).

*Each cutoff time is calculated from the official start of the age-group field.

What is the timing system used for the event?
ChampionChip

If I have my own chip can I use it?
Of course, e-mail your chip number to Ironman Race Timing at: timing@ironman.com or check in with timing during registration.

I didn’t turn in my timing chip after the race. Where do I return it so I won’t be charged the “lost chip” fee?
Ironman Kona Race Office
74-5599 Alapa St. #1
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

I want to buy my own ChampionChip, where do I go?
Currently, personal chips are not available. Please check back at a later date for availability.

Will there be live on-line tracking and results on race day?
You can follow the race live on race day at http://www.ironman.com

Will I receive an Official Finisher’s certificate?
Athletes will receive their 2012 Ironman World Championship Finisher Certificate via e-mail.

Training
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What is the average time it takes an Age Group triathlete to prepare for an Ironman?
Triathletes train an average of seven months for the Ironman World Championship. The average hours per week devoted to training for the Ironman World Championship generally falls between 18 and 30+. Average training distances are:

• Swimming miles per week: 7 (11.3 km)
• Biking miles per week biking: 232 (373.3 km)
• Running miles per week: 48 (77.2 km)

 

Who are the official coaches of the 2012 Ironman World Championship?
Carmichael Training Systems and Coach Troy Jacobson are the official coaches of the Ironman World Championship. For more information on Carmichael Training Systems and Coach Troy Jacobson, please visit their Web sites: www.trainright.com and www.coachtroy.com.

What are the distances of the Ironman World Championship and what are the cutoff times?
The swim is 2.4 miles and the cutoff is 2 hours and 20 minutes; the bike is 112 miles and the cutoff time is 10 hours and 30 minutes; the run is a full marathon, which is 26.2 miles, and the cutoff time is 17 hours. Each cutoff time is calculated from the beginning of the age-group race.

What is the official sports drink, and where can I purchase this product?
Ironman PERFORM is the official sports drink of the Ironman World Championship. For more information and to purchase, please log on to www.powerbar.com.

Weather

What is the weather typically like on race day?
Temperatures on race day range from 82 to 95 degrees, with the humidity hovering around 90 percent. Crosswinds on portions of the bike course sometimes get as high as 60 mph.

 

Volunteers
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Where can I sign up to volunteer?
Please click here to sign up for the Ironman World Championship Volunteer Team.

Travel
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Who do I contact regarding travel to Kona?
Anthony Travel is the official travel partner of the Ironman World Championship. For more information, please log on to AnthonyTravel.com or contact them directly at 1-866-913-7168.