Pros Lineup for 2023 Ironman Western Australia

As the scenic town of Busselton braces for the much-anticipated Ironman Western Australia, both the men’s and women’s races are poised to display an extraordinary blend of international flair and athletic talent. With a fully booked event, athletes from around the world are set to challenge the 3.8km swim, 180km ride, and 42.2km run, making this year's event a must-watch race.

Men's Race: A Battle Among Titans

The men's race is stacked with 23 professionals from seven countries, all eyeing the prestigious Ironman title. Leading the pack is Denmark’s Daniel Bækkegård, fresh off his Canberra victory and eager to conquer Busselton. Bækkegård, known for his strong cycling, approaches the race with a blend of anticipation and strategy, stating, “It’s all about the Kona slot and enjoying a good hit out with the boys."

Australian triathlete Steve McKenna, who has had a remarkable year with a win at Ironman Australia and a second-place finish at Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship, is a top contender. McKenna’s focus on Ironman-specific training, despite recent challenges, has him poised for a strong performance.

Sam Appleton, returning to Busselton after a fourth-place finish in 2019, is another athlete to watch. Based in Boulder, Colorado, Appleton's excellent training conditions and fond memories of the event have him aiming for a top spot.

Matt Burton, the 2022 champion, brings a local edge to the race. His recent fourth-place finish at Ironman 70.3 Melbourne has him well-prepared to defend his title on home turf.

PROFESSIONAL MEN’S START LIST

1 Steven McKenna AUS (Australia)

2 Matt Burton AUS (Australia)

3 Sam Appleton AUS (Australia)

4 Daniel Bækkegård DNK (Denmark)

5 Mitch Kibby AUS (Australia)

6 Caleb Noble AUS (Australia)

7 Nick Thompson AUS (Australia)

8 Aichlinn OReilly IRL (Ireland)

9 Maximilian Hammerle AUT (Austria)

10 Kosuke Terasawa JPN (Japan)

11 Quentin De Vos BEL (Belgium)

12 Scott Steenberg DNK (Denmark)

14 Jens Frommhold DEU (Germany)

15 Levi Hauwert AUS (Australia)

16 Justin Wendemuth AUS (Australia)

17 Mark Radziejewski AUS (Australia)

18 Harrison Wiles AUS (Australia)

19 Kaito Tohara JPN (Japan)

20 Liam Duval AUS (Australia)

21 Jack Sosinski AUS (Australia)

22 Samuel Doggett AUS (Australia)

23 Nick Carling AUS (Australia)

24 Harry Sinclair AUS (Australia)

Women's Race: A Global Clash of Champions

The women's race features nine professional triathletes, with Dutch athlete Els Visser leading the charge. Visser, coming off a win at Ironman New Zealand and a recent victory in Canberra, is keen to add Busselton to her list of wins. She appreciates the course and community, noting, “The course spectators and volunteers offer such support and inspiration.”

Sweden’s Lisa Norden, an Ironman race winner and Olympic Games silver medallist, brings her passion for the sport and love for Australia to the race. Norden’s enthusiasm for the Australian triathlon community and the Busselton course sets her up as a formidable opponent.

Fenella Langridge from Britain, after a global tour of races, is determined to conclude her season with a win. Her ambition to secure a Nice slot and her experience in Australia enhance her prospects.

Lotte Wilms, the Dutch athlete based in Queensland, adds to the international flavor. Meanwhile, Chloe Lane, the sole Australian in the women’s pro field, comes off a third-place finish at Ironman Wisconsin, ready to make an impact in her home country.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S START LIST

31 Els Visser NLD (Netherlands)

32 Lisa Norden SWE (Sweden)

33 Fenella Langridge GBR (United Kingdom)

34 Lotte Wilms NLD (Netherlands)

35 Chloe Lane AUS (Australia)

37 Marion Tuin NLD (Netherlands)

38 Michelle Vesterby DNK (Denmark)

40 Maki Takahashi JPN (Japan)

41 Camille Deligny FRA (France)