The Ironman Triathlon was started in Hawaii by Navy Seals commander John Collins. It was an answer to the question, who are the fittest athletes in the world: swimmers, cyclists or runners.

First race was Feb. 18, 1978 and 15 participants competed.

Now there are 15 sanctioned races all over the globe and on all continents except Antartica.

Ironman North America consists of six races: Subaru Ironman Canada, Ironman USA Lake Placid, Ironman Florida, Ironman Wisconsin, Ironman Utah and California Half Ironman.

Copyright Brigham Young University 4 Jun 2002