Since it began as a challenge between a group of Navy Seals, the Ironman has grown to become one of the most recognized endurance events in the world. Originally a combination of the Waikiki Rough Water swim, the Around Oahu Bike Race and the Honolulu Marathon, the Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run.

The Ironman qualifying series includes 22 events throughout the world that qualify athletes for the Ford Ironman World Championship held every October in Kona, Hawaii.

http://ironman.com/