In two days, I will be swimming 2.4 miles in the Pacific Ocean, biking 112 miles on the Queen K highway and running 26.2 miles through the infamous energy lab.
On February 18, 1978, 15 people came to Waikiki to take on the IRONMAN challenge. Prior to racing, each received three sheets of paper with a few rules and a course description. The last page read: "Swim 2.4 miles! Bike 112 miles! Run 26.2 miles! Brag for the rest of your life!"
In 1981, the race moved from the tranquil shores of Waikiki to the barren lava fields of Kona on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Along the Kona Coast, black lava rock dominates the panorama, and athletes battle the "ho’omumuku" crosswinds of 45 mph, 95 degree temperatures and a scorching sun.
The IRONMAN World Championship centers on the dedication and courage exhibited by participants who demonstrate the IRONMAN mantra that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. (Originally from: http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman/world-championship.aspx#ixzz3o17sj3Bk)
In March of this year I found out I was one of the 100 legacy athletes to receive a slot to compete at the IRONMAN World Championships.
My dad, Windell Kjono was diagnosed with Double-hit lymphoma in April. This cancer attacked and hit him fast. Within two weeks of being admitted to the hospital he was in ICU fighting for his life. Once diagnosed he began chemotherapy and continues to fight with all the will, strength and power he has.
In May, I started fundraising for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through IRONMAN Foundation to raise money for Double-hit lymphoma research. Because Double-hit lymphoma is so rare, there is no standard protocol for treatment. Additional research is necessary to better understand it.
I set a goal to raise $5,000 by the date of the race. As of today, October 8, I have raised $6,705. Thanks to the generosity of my family and friends who have supported this cause the means so much to me.
FUNDRAISER LINK
For those interested in tracking me during the event please follow the instructions below:
Saturday, October 10, 2015
Start time: 7:10 am (1:10 pm EST)
Bib number: 2084
Go to: www.ironman.com
At the top of the page EVENT COVERAGE click on: World Championship
You can enter in my bib number or name to track me during the 140.6 mile event.
Less than 48 hours and I will be in the midst of the dream of my lifetime.
IRONMAN Article
