The Madison area became a triathlon course Sunday for more than 2,500 athletes who participated in IRONMAN 70.3 Wisconsin and IRONMAN Wisconsin. Madison has played host to the event for 23 years.
Earning the ‘IRONMAN’ title consists of a 2.4 mi swim, 112 mi bike ride and then a full 26.2 mi marathon run, all completed within a 17 hour cutoff.
All racers started at 7 a.m. with their own goal, whether to simply finish the race or win the whole event like 26-year old Daniel Winek, who finished first in 8:36:16.
Winek told The Daily Cardinal at the finish line he was tested by the race, but stayed consistent.
“I knew what I was capable of, knew what splits to hit,” Winek said. “I really wanted to leave it all out there, and I think I did exactly that.”
At the start line, Abby Jorgensen told The Cardinal she wanted to “accomplish something big” and prove to herself she could earn the ‘IRONMAN’ title.
Racers like Tatiana Thorton from Texas traveled from all over to participate in this award-winning triathlon. Thorton said she felt nervous, grateful and proud of herself for not only training hard but competing 18 months after having a baby.
“I’m just excited to be moving and here,” Thorton said. “I feel ready.”
University of Wisconsin-Madison alum Denver Baker was racing to honor close family friend Dax Bakken who died in the 2023 IRONMAN.
“I’d like to be out here in remembrance and prove this can be done,” Baker said.
Spectators and dogs crowded Lake Monona and lined Madison streets to cheer on athletes with creative signs and t-shirts. One sign read “another bombshell enters the course” in reference to reality dating show “Love Island.”
Shannon Ardaugh, a spectator on the course, said it was exciting and sometimes nerve-racking watching her daughter, a seasoned competitive athlete, participate.
Several spectators also commented on the fantastic sunny and 70 degree race day weather.
In addition to the 2,500 athletes, over 3,000 volunteers and 40 organizations worked the IRONMAN race with numerous tasks, from handing out refreshments to helping in the changing tents.
IRONMAN will return to Madison Sept. 26 next year.
