IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship

Ironman 70.3: Where Kiwis and Superstars Collide in Taupō!

Catch all the action from the 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in New Zealand, where Taylor Knibb takes the crown and Hayden Wilde narrowly misses out!

The 2024 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship took place in the stunning landscapes of Taupō, New Zealand, drawing in elite athletes from around the world to test their mettle in swimming, cycling, and running. Among them was American triathlete Taylor Knibb, who showcased an electrifying performance to claim her third consecutive title. With her formidable strength and passion for the sport, Knibb emerged victorious once again, leaving her competitors in her wake as she completed the course like a breeze.

Not to be overlooked, New Zealand's own Olympic silver medalist Hayden Wilde was also in the spotlight, making a bold debut at the 70.3 event. Though he faced tough competition, Wilde's journey was nothing short of exhilarating as he battled it out on his home turf. His heart-pounding finish saw him narrowly miss the first place, just three kilometers from the finish line. Wilde's exuberance and spirit captivated the crowd — cheering him on from start to finish — proving that Kiwis know how to rally behind their champions!

The women’s race of the championship showcased fierce competition, not just for medals but also for valuable points in the Ironman Pro Series. England's Kat Matthews put up an incredible fight, finishing just behind Knibb. While she may not have bagged the top spot this time, Matthews strategically secured her position in the larger series, setting her up for future success. The crowds, made up of enthusiastic Kiwi fans, cheered on local talent and international legends alike, creating an unforgettable atmosphere at this spectacular event.

In an event packed with suspense and drama, Jelle Geens from Belgium emerged victorious in the men's competition, clinching his first Ironman 70.3 title. He cleverly paced his race, ultimately launching his late surge to victory which left local hero Wilde with a heart-wrenching second-place finish. The heat of the Taupō sun, combined with the electrifying energy of enthusiastic Kiwis, made for an unforgettable race.

Did you know that Taupō is home to New Zealand’s largest lake, making it a beautiful backdrop for world-class triathlons? Additionally, this year’s event attracted over 6,000 athletes, not just to compete, but to celebrate the spirit of endurance sports in scenic New Zealand!