Ironman athletes share their reactions to Chattanooga race
Chattanooga Ironman
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Ironman took over the Scenic City on Sept. 24.
Athletes completed a swim, bike ride, and run from 7:30 in the morning to around midnight.
The first athlete finished a little after 3:30 on Sunday afternoon. Some athletes continued until 12:30 a.m.
Fernando Maluf finished first in the race with a time of 8 hours, 22 minutes and 55 seconds.
He has accomplished four half-Ironman’s before this full-length triathlon in preparation for the World Championship.
“I just love Chattanooga. I love the whole organization of the event. I thought it was amazing. The course out there has beautiful roads, a lot of trees. The road itself was good for the most part of it. So all in all, one of the best races I’ve ever been to so far,” Maluf said.
Andy Stetzler from Seattle said that this was his seventh Ironman race and his first time competing in Chattanooga.
“This is my seventh Ironman. First time in Chattanooga. It was an absolutely beautiful day. Beautiful city. So much great support on the course. Everyone’s clapping and just such an amazing day,” Stetzler said.
Stetzler said the training leading up to the event can be intimidating, but with preparation and dedication it makes all the difference.
“Ive been in this sport for about twelve years, and it’s just been amazing. Crossing that finish line is just an amazing experience,” Stetzler added.
Athlete Brandon Lee said he had been up since 3 a.m. to prepare for this long distance Ironman.
With the volunteers and community support, he felt motivated in his journey.
“Everybody that I’ve come across like on the bike course, there’s people out there cheering. Run course, I mean you have people up in restaurants that are yelling at you… and it’s just so well supported and as an athlete, I wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t for that,” Lee said.
“I’ve raced a lot of places, and Chattanooga is by far the best supported race. That means a lot to an athlete,” Lee said.
