Bakk preparing for Ironman

Britni Bakk of Point Roberts has qualified for the Ironman Triathlon World Championship held on October 16 in Hailua-Kona, Hawaii. Each year, over 50,000 triathletes from more than 50 countries attempt to qualify for the world’s most famous endurance event.

The Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run, which must be completed within the allotted 17-hour time frame. Training for the race typically requires 18 to 24 hours per week for six to eight months in order to develop the endurance needed to complete the 140.6 mile event.

The Ironman began in 1978 with only 15 competitors. Its explosive growth required race organizers to implement qualifying procedures in 1983. The race field now includes more than 1,600 contestants due to the championship nature of the event.

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