News & Racing

Best Running Shots from the 2023 Ironman World Championship

Experience the spirit and intensity of the 2023 Ironman World Championship with our curated selection of the most breathtaking images from the run in Kailua-Kona

Shawn Smith

Shawn Smith

— 3 min read
Best Running Shots from the 2023 Ironman World Championship

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii played host to a groundbreaking day in sports as it set the stage for the inaugural women-only Ironman World Championship. A staggering 2,000 registered athletes tackled the course, weaving through spirited crowds on Alii Drive.

Image: OVERCOMING THE ODDS
This wasn’t just any triathlon; it marked the first-ever women's exclusive race on triathlon’s historic homeland. Over 2,000 women faced the challenging 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and a 26.2-mile run, writing a new chapter in the annals of sports history.

Britain's Lucy Charles-Barclay emerged victorious, symbolising grit and determination. Her footprints on the iconic Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway marked her storybook triumph, capturing the essence of what it means to conquer challenges.

Another significant highlight was Australian Ultra Trail Lucy Bartholomew. By crossing the finish line, Bartholomew notched her name as only the second female to complete both the Ironman World Championship and the UTMB World Series Finals at UTMB Mont Blanc within the same calendar year - a jaw-dropping near 400km of racing in just six weeks.

Image: TEARS OF JOY
The euphoria of victory was palpable as Lucy Charles-Barclay neared the finish line, with tears of joy reflecting the culmination of months of rigorous training and an indomitable spirit.

As the sun set on Kailua-Kona, athletes battled fatigue, pushing their limits against the backdrop of a breathtaking Hawaiian sunset

Transitioning between stages, Lucy Charles-Barclay was the first off the bike course, setting an impressive pace, while Taylor Knibb, trailed, eager to bridge the gap.

Image: ON TO THE NEXT ONE
The field was rife with exceptional talent, including American Laura Brandon, who dazzled spectators as she sped along the run course.
Image: FLY HUMAN FLY
Ideal conditions graced the day, with athletes pushing their boundaries under a guiding light, symbolising hope and the promise of success.
Image: GUIDING LIGHT
Germany's Laura Philipp gave a stellar performance, racing down Ali`i Drive on the run course's final stretch.
Image: CHASING KONA WAVES
A captivating duel unfolded between Anne Haug and Ironma rookie Taylor Knibb. Haug eventually secured second place, while Knibb celebrated her debut by finishing fourth.

Today was not just about records or winning; it was about breaking barriers, inspiring countless women worldwide, and etching a golden chapter in the history of sports. The 2023 Women's Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona will be remembered for its spirit, courage, and the promise of many more women's chapters yet to be written.

Read more