Ironman information: Pre-race events to begin this weekend

Mike Reilly leads a pack of underwear clad runners down Alii Drive for the 22nd annual Underpants Run in October 2019 in Kailua-Kona. (J.R. DE GROOTE/WEST HAWAII TODAY)
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KAILUA-KONA — The 2023 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship is thrilled to host the first-ever women’s-only race day in Kailua-Kona on Saturday, October 14, with the men returning to Pacific shores in 2024.

The event will host approximately 2,200 female athletes as they embark on a 140.6-mile journey that represents the ultimate test of body, mind, and spirit to earn the title of IRONMAN World Champion.

The community of Hawai`i is invited to be a part of this evolutionary event and participate in race-week events including fun run, endurance swim and kids races. Or come volunteer for one of many race-week roles in support of the athletes, and come witness the professional triathletes and amateurs break limits, forge new paths and Holomua under the watchful eyes of a global broadcast on Oct. 14.

Information on upcoming local events ahead of the big race can be found here:

Kona Town Fun Run

• 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at Hale Halawai

• Family-friendly 5k dash

• Registration is open to ages 10+

• Sign-ups can be found online

Ho‘ala Ironman Training Swim

• 7 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 8 at Kamakahonu Beach

• 2.4-mile swim; fully supported by staff

• 1,200-person cap

• Each finisher receives a participation medal

• Registration is open to ages 18+

• Sign-ups can be found online

IRONKIDS Dip-N-Dash

• 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10 at Ka‘ahumanu Place

• ¼mile run, .9-mile run, 150-yard swim/.9-mile run

• Registration is open to children of 6-14 years

• Sign-ups can be found online

Parade of Nations

• 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10 from King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort to Hale Halawai

• Athletes from over 73 countries will introduce themselves ahead of the big event

• IRONMAN legends will additonally partake in the parade

• Public is encouraged to come watch the celebration

Underpants Run

• 7:45 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 12 in the parking lot of King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

• Registration begins at 6 a.m.; $25 entry fee (merchandise provided upon registration)

• 1.5 to 2-mile run on Alii Drive; all ages welcome

• Attire: underwear (no public nudity allowed)