Fernanda Keller became the first Brazilian woman to compete at the IRONMAN World Championship and has completed the event 27 times, among her approximately 100 IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 finishes. Racing initially as a professional, Fernanda is the only triathlete in the world to place 3rd overall a total of six times, from 1994-2000, and placing in the women’s top ten another 14 times in the years that followed. In addition, Fernanda has won IRONMAN Brazil a total of five times and been runner up four times. Keller remains one of the most successful triathletes ever, and in 2015 was featured as one of Forbes’ most powerful women in sports. An advocate for mental health through sport, Fernanda founded Instituto Fernanda Keller, which focuses on serving adolescents from low-income families through education and physical activity. It celebrates its 25th year of operation in 2024. 

Kathleen McCartney earned the title of IRONMAN World Champion in her first appearance at the IRONMAN World Championship in 1982. As a 22-year-old college student attending University of California Irvine, McCartney famously passed a crawling Julie Moss in the final 10 metres to capture the Championship title in one of the defining moments of IRONMAN’s history. McCartney completed six IRONMAN World Championship races as a professional from 1982 to 1988, inspiring global audiences with her performances. Returning to Kona in 2012 at the 30th anniversary of her World Championship-winning race, and again in 2018 as part of IRONMAN’s 40 Years of Dreams celebration, McCartney has competed in eight IRONMAN World Championship events. Kathleen continues to inspire the triathlon world as a coach, mentor, motivational speaker and even mother to an IRONMAN World Championship finisher! 

In 1998, Natascha Badmann, a Basel, Switzerland native made history by becoming the first European woman to win the IRONMAN World Championship and would go on to become a six-time IRONMAN World Champion in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2005. Winning her first IRONMAN World Championship at the age of 29, she went on to become one of only four women in history to win an IRONMAN World Championship title more than three times. She was the first mother to win IRONMAN and she's inspired many with her smile and love for the sport until today. Retiring from professional racing in 2016 at the age of 50, an astounding 20 years after her first IRONMAN World Championship event in Kona, Badmann produced unforgettable performances time and time again (including clawing back from a 10-minute deficit from Australian Michellie Jones to take her final title in 2005 by nearly two minutes). At that same race, she posted the fastest bike split in the women’s field in 2012 (5:06:07) at the age of 45. Badmann lives in Switzerland with her husband, coach and nutritionist, Toni Hasler. Through her work as a motivational speaker and business coach, she now hopes to inspire and motivate others to become their best. 

Carlos Moleda is a five-time IRONMAN World Champion in the handcycle division and a pioneer for the sport and handcycle racing. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Moleda moved to the United States at the age of 18 and joined the military, becoming a U.S. Navy SEAL. A Purple Heart recipient, Moleda, was injured in the line of duty and was paralyzed in 1989. He broke barriers becoming the first handcycle athlete to break 11 hours at the 1998 IRONMAN World Championship. From 1998 to 2000, Moleda’s rivalry and fierce competition with motocross legend David Bailey took the handcycle division at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona to a whole new level. The epic rivalry, in addition to Carlos’ impressive 10:55 victory in 1998 changed perception about what an athlete could do in a handcycle. He then won the handcycle division five times, achieving his first four IRONMAN World Championship titles during his career peak. He came back at the age of 53 to win his fifth in 2015. Carlos is also a seven-time national champion and won the Buffalo Springs Triathlon (now IRONMAN 70.3 Lubbock) twice. Moleda has helped to develop rules for paratriathlon events, summited Mount Kilimanjaro and completed Race Across America in 8 days, 9 hours on a four-person handcycle relay team. Moleda now serves as a spokesman for the Challenged Athletes Foundation and uses his expertise and motivational skills to teach younger kids with disabilities how to ride handcycles. 

Kenneth Gasque is not only a four-time finisher of the IRONMAN World Championship but also the visionary founder of the highly acclaimed IRONMAN Lanzarote triathlon. Drawn by the striking similarities between Hawai`i and Lanzarote, Gasque saw the potential of the volcanic landscape of Lanzarote as an ideal setting for an IRONMAN race. Taking over as race director in 1992, Gasque has continued to serve as an honorary race director, contributing to the enduring success of IRONMAN Lanzarote, now recognized as the second oldest event in the Europe/Middle East/Asia (EMEA) region. Gasque's personal touch became legendary as he made it a tradition to personally greet and congratulate every athlete who crossed the finish line, often staying well past 1 a.m. His dedication and commitment to the sport have left an indelible mark, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and achievement that defines the IRONMAN community. 

Michellie Jones, one of the most accomplished triathletes of all time, has left an undeniable mark on the world of IRONMAN. As the first Australian woman to win the IRONMAN World Championship, her achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. Jones began her journey as a two-time ITU Triathlon World Champion in 1992 and 1993, and continued to excel across various distances, earning a silver medal in triathlon at the 2000 Olympic Games. Her transition to long-distance triathlon led to victories at the IRONMAN Florida triathlon in 2005 and the IRONMAN Arizona triathlon in 2006. Eventually winning the 2006 IRONMAN World Championship title. She returned to the Olympics in 2016 as a guide for paratriathlete Katie Kelly, winning a gold medal. Her contributions have been recognized with inductions into both the ITU Hall of Fame and the Triathlon Australia Hall of Fame. Jones remains active in the sport as an IRONMAN U Certified Coach. 

Jan War is a cornerstone of the IRONMAN Ohana, with nearly 40 years of dedicated service as a volunteer. For the past 32 years, he has served as the Swim Director for the IRONMAN World Championship, a role that highlights his commitment to excellence and community. Raised on the Island of Oahu and a resident of Kailua-Kona since 1975, War has been instrumental in demonstrating the importance of volunteerism within IRONMAN. His leadership extends to overseeing over 300 swim course volunteers annually, whose contributions are crucial to the success of the IRONMAN World Championship. Jan War's unwavering dedication and generosity have significantly shaped the event, underscoring his vital role in its growth and prominence. Without his selfless contributions, IRONMAN and the IRONMAN World Championship would not have attained their current stature. 

Tim DeBoom is a distinguished figure in the world of IRONMAN, securing the coveted title of World Champion twice. His triumphs came in consecutive years, with a poignant victory in 2001, shortly after the events of September 11, followed by another victory in 2002. DeBoom's back-to-back wins placed him among the elite few, alongside legends Dave Scott and Mark Allen, as just the third male to achieve this feat in IRONMAN history. Beyond his World Championship victories, DeBoom also reached the podium at the 1999 and 2000 IRONMAN World Championships. Recognized for his outstanding contributions to the sport, he was honored with induction into the USA Triathlon Hall of Fame in 2015. DeBoom's success extends beyond Kona, with notable wins at the 1999 IRONMAN New Zealand and the 2001 IRONMAN California triathlons, solidifying his legacy as a versatile and accomplished triathlete. 

Ken Baggs played a pivotal role in establishing IRONMAN in Australia, dedicating three decades (1984-2014) to the sport. As a founding member of the organizing committee for the inaugural IRONMAN Australia race in 1985, he assumed the role of race director in 1987. Baggs further expanded IRONMAN's footprint by founding IRONMAN Western Australia and serving as race director for both events until 2012. His contributions were integral to setting global standards for rules, safety, and operational procedures during IRONMAN's expansion from its origins in Hawai`i to events worldwide. Baggs's enduring commitment and leadership were crucial in shaping the organization during its formative years. 

Rocky Campbell can be considered one of the foundational members of the IRONMAN family as one of the original and longest-tenured IRONMAN World Championship volunteers. For nearly 40 years, Campbell has helped shape and showcase the importance of volunteerism to the success of IRONMAN. Serving as volunteer director for the last 33 years, Campbell first began as an aid-station volunteer before taking on roles with the swim course, construction, and action management. Campbell joins fellow volunteer Bob Laird in the IRONMAN Hall of Fame. If it were not for their passion, belief in a dream and their willingness to give of themselves for others, IRONMAN and the IRONMAN World Championship likely would not be where they are today. 

Erin Baker is a two-time IRONMAN World Champion having won in 1987 and 1990. Commonly known for her long-standing rivalry with 8-time IRONMAN World Champion and fellow Hall of Famer, Paula Newby-Fraser, Baker was a force of her own, winning 104 of the 121 races she entered. In her career, Baker was impressive at every level, earning titles at the ITU World Championship, ITU Duathlon World Championship and IRONMAN World Championship. She has been a champion of the sport and continues to be known as one of the best female triathletes of all time. Baker is also a 1995 inductee to the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame. 

Scott Molina was a pivotal member of the renowned "Big Four," alongside triathlon legends Dave Scott, Mark Allen, and Scott Tinley, who collectively revolutionized the sport from the 1980s into the 1990s. Molina's triumphs included winning the 1988 IRONMAN World Championship, earning him the nickname "The Terminator" for his relentless competitive spirit. As one of triathlon's most accomplished athletes, Molina amassed a staggering record of over 250 major races and more than 100 professional victories. He notably clinched victory at the inaugural IRONMAN New Zealand in 1985, marking the event's first expansion outside of Hawai`i. Molina's enduring influence on triathlon extends beyond his competitive years. He continues to shape the sport through coaching and training camps, solidifying his status as a respected figure and pillar of the triathlon community. 

In her Kona debut in 2007, Chrissie Wellington captivated fans and competitors alike with her stellar performance as a relatively unknown athlete. The British sensation went on to claim an impressive four IRONMAN World Championship titles, triumphing in 2008, 2009, and 2011. Her 2011 victory was particularly remarkable, achieved despite recovering from a severe bike crash just two weeks prior to the race. Wellington's dominance extended beyond championships, as she set a long-standing five-year course record with a time of 8:54:02 in 2009. She even held the women's world record until 2022 for the fastest IRONMAN finish time of 8:33:56, set at IRONMAN South Africa in 2011 (Now held by Daniela Ryf with a time of 8:08:21). Her achievements continue to inspire and remain benchmarks in the world of IRONMAN racing. 

Lew Friedland was captivated by IRONMAN at the IRONMAN World Championship in 1989, when he watched the "Iron War" between Mark Allen and Dave Scott. After working with IRONMAN in various capacities, Friedland took over as President, leading the company from 1998 until 2004. During this time he played an integral role in both domestic and international growth of the company. Historic and popular events such as IRONMAN Lake Placid, IRONMAN Coeur d’Alene, IRONMAN Arizona and IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside were all launched during Friedland’s tenure, in addition to other favorites in South Africa, the United Kingdom, France, Malaysia and Korea. 

Peter Reid, originally from Quebec, Canada, boasts an impressive record with ten IRONMAN triathlon victories throughout his professional career. He secured his first IRONMAN World Championship title in 1998, followed by additional wins in 2000 and 2003. Reid achieved podium finishes an outstanding seven times at the IRONMAN World Championship. His remarkable achievements led to inductions into the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, the Canada Sports Hall of Fame in 2011, the BC Sports Hall of Fame in 2013, and most recently, the Triathlon Canada Hall of Fame. 

Lori Bowden, originally from Ontario, Canada, captured the IRONMAN World Championship title in 1999 and 2003 and held a podium spot at the event each year from 1997 to 2003. In addition, she has 11 other IRONMAN wins and was the prominent female runner in her era. Her love of the sport and tenacity in racing has helped her become one of the most well-loved IRONMAN athletes of all time. 

Heather Fuhr, originally from Alberta, Canada, is considered one of the best runners in the sport of triathlon. Throughout her professional career, she captured 15 IRONMAN titles from around the world. In 1997, her seventh time racing in Kona, she earned the highest step of the podium, and became IRONMAN World Champion. Married to her high school sweetheart, triathlon coach Roch Frey, Fuhr lives her passion each day. As one of the most knowledgeable ambassadors for the sport, she has earned respect and admiration among professional and age-group athletes alike. 

In 1997, Stefan Petschnig, Georg Hochegger, and Helge Lorenz founded Triangle Events with a singular mission: to organize an IRONMAN event in their hometown of Klagenfurt. A decade later, their vision culminated in the establishment of IRONMAN Austria in Klagenfurt, which became the cornerstone of a series of prestigious races across Europe and extending as far as South Africa. Triangle Events expanded their portfolio to include licensed full-distance IRONMAN events in France and South Africa, alongside IRONMAN 70.3 races in Monaco, South Africa, and a second Austrian venue in St. Poelten. Their collective efforts were pivotal in setting a standard of excellence for these events, significantly enhancing the popularity and success of IRONMAN races throughout Europe and South Africa today. 

During his 12 years with IRONMAN, Peter Henning, a 16-time Emmy award winning cameraman and producer continued his reputation as one of the world’s top sports television producers. Henning and his incredible crew introduced the world to many inspirational IRONMAN athletes, including Jon "Blazeman" Blais, who completed the race in Kona with ALS; Sister Madonna Buder, then the oldest female IRONMAN finisher; and the ageless Lew Hollander, who finished the race when he was 81. It was his crew that captured the story of double-leg amputee Rudy Garcia-Tolson, the epic hand cycle battle between Carlos Moleda and David Bailey, the distraught Sarah Reinertsen when she missed the bike cutoff in 2004 and then her emotional finish a year later. The 2013 Hall of Fame inductee helped the coverage of the IRONMAN World Championship win its 16th Emmy in 2012 for Outstanding Camera Work. 

The 2012 Hall of Fame inductee Graham Fraser led the expansion of IRONMAN racing across North America, adding six full-distance races to the North American calendar. After finishing the IRONMAN World Championship in 1985 Fraser returned home to organize his first event in his hometown of Grimsby, Ontario, Canada. Within a decade that one race had grown into a series which, at the time, was the largest in the world. He would take over IRONMAN Canada in 1996 and began the North American expansion of IRONMAN racing in 1999 with new events in Lake Placid and Florida, which led to the incredible growth the sport has experienced ever since. 

Since 1989, Mike Reilly has been synonymous with the IRONMAN World Championship, earning global recognition as the 'voice of IRONMAN.' Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011, he has announced at more than 130 events worldwide and is the originator of the iconic phrase 'You are an IRONMAN,' eagerly awaited by every finisher. Reilly's career began with announcing the inaugural professional triathlon in Solana Beach, and he has since brought his distinctive voice to over 1,000 endurance events. 

Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2008, Rick and Dick Hoyt captured hearts around the world with their inspiring performances in Kona. In 1977, Rick, who suffers from cerebral palsy, asked his father, Dick, if they could run together in a 5-mile race. Dick pulled Rick in a special boat through the swim, rode with him on a special seat on the front of his bicycle and pushed him in a special wheelchair to the finish line in 1989. A decade later they were back to once again inspire the world with a finish at the IRONMAN World Championship. Today, other disabled athletes follow in their footsteps and prove that anyone can become an IRONMAN. 

As one of the first paratriathletes to complete the IRONMAN World Championship, Jim MacLaren inspired the world with his incredible determination and drive. Hit by a New York City bus in 1985, the former lacrosse and football player lost his left leg below the knee. As a sign of his incredible drive and determination, he transformed his former football-player physique (6'5" and 300 pounds) to that of an endurance athlete. He would go on to finish the IRONMAN World Championship in 1989 in 12:13:50 (three years later he went 10:42:50) and the New York City Marathon in 3:16. All were records for amputee athletes. At a race in 1993 MacLaren was hit by a van during another triathlon and was paralyzed. Bob Babbitt and a group of MacLaren’s friends started a race to raise money. That event would eventually morph into the Challenged Athletes Foundation, which has raised millions of dollars for disabled athletes around the world. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005. 

In 1994, Greg Welch made history as the first non-American male to secure the IRONMAN World Championship title, marking the beginning of an illustrious career that spanned five world titles. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004, Welch's impressive resume attests to his exceptional talent and versatility. His accolades include world championships in surf lifesaving, duathlon, Olympic distance triathlon, and IRONMAN. In 1996, he clinched the ITU World Long Distance Championship, further showcasing his strength across various disciplines. Welch's list of achievements extends to multiple victories as an Australian national champion, a three-time US Pro champion, and triumphs at prestigious events like the Mrs. T’s Chicago Triathlon and the Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon (twice). Additionally, he earned a bronze medal at the 1990 Commonwealth Games, underscoring his consistent excellence and competitive spirit throughout his remarkable career. 

A champion cyclist who held the American record for the 25-mile time trial, Lyn Lemaire made history as the sole woman competitor in the 1979 IRONMAN World Championship, where her finish secured her the inaugural women’s title. An exceptional athlete, Lemaire competed in four national swimming championships in high school, played three positions for UCLA basketball, and earned national cycling titles in the time trial and the 3,000m individual pursuit. Her outstanding achievements led to her induction into the Hall of Fame in 2003.

John MacLean made history as the first individual to complete the IRONMAN World Championship using a hand-cranked bike and wheelchair. His remarkable achievement in 1996 not only showcased his own incredible abilities but also brought global attention to the capabilities of physically challenged athletes. MacLean's pioneering performance set a precedent, laying the foundation for the inspiring competition witnessed years later between Handcycle Division competitors David Bailey and Carlos Moleda. Bailey and Moleda's participation and competition were made possible by MacLean's groundbreaking efforts. His courageous and trailblazing accomplishment continues to resonate, highlighting the transformative impact of determination and resilience in the world of IRONMAN. 

The winner of the very first IRONMAN World Championship in 1978, Gordon Haller, a Naval communication specialist, trailed John Dunbar by 12 minutes off the bike at the very first race, only to out-run the Navy Seal by 30 minutes for the win. A training fanatic, Haller’s work schedule had him complete six days’ worth of work in five days, giving him 80 hours off to train, in which he would complete the equivalent of two IRONMAN races. He finished fourth in the second running of the event in 1979 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2003. 

In 2002, the IRONMAN recognized Bob Babbitt, Publisher and Editor of Competitor Magazine, by inducting him into the IRONMAN Hall of Fame. Regarded as the greatest historian of IRONMAN, Babbitt has passionately promoted IRONMAN for over two decades through his captivating speeches and stories. His ability to encapsulate the essence of IRONMAN is unparalleled, making him a cherished figure in the community. Babbitt's induction into the IRONMAN Hall of Fame is fitting recognition for his pivotal role in shaping the sport's identity and growth. His enduring dedication has significantly contributed to IRONMAN's evolution into what it is today. 

Dr. Bob Laird, who had a 19-year association with the event, was honored with induction into the IRONMAN Hall of Fame in 2001. He first completed the Hawai’i course in 1988. Laird is credited with pioneering medical protocols for the IRONMAN World Championship, significantly enhancing the healthcare provided to triathletes globally. Affectionately known as "Dr. Bob," his expertise in Sports Medicine has led to substantial improvements in triathlon medical protocols, addressing various health challenges that might arise during IRONMAN events. 

Tom Warren, inducted into the IRONMAN Hall of Fame in 2000, played a pivotal role in shaping triathlon to its current stature. As the winner of the second IRONMAN race in Oahu, Warren's unconventional lifestyle and training methods became the focal point of Barry McDermott's vivid 10-page article in Sports Illustrated. This article not only sparked widespread interest in the race, generating numerous inquiries, but also drew ABC's Wide World of Sports into the fold, significantly boosting the visibility and impact of IRONMAN events.  

Without Valerie Silk, the IRONMAN race would not have become the fantastic event it is today. She took over “supervision” of the race in 1981. She is credited with professionalizing the IRONMAN competition, enhancing race organization, logistics and marketing. Her efforts were pivotal in attracting more participants to the event. She took the race from a 326-person race to a full-fledged World Championship with almost 1,400 of the world's fittest athletes toeing the starting line. Largely leading to the global success of IRONMAN races. 

While previous Hall of Fame members have left an impressive mark on the IRONMAN Triathlon World Championship, the 20th anniversary inductees, Commander John Collins and his wife Judy, did far more than define the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile run — they pioneered it. Initially conceiving what they thought was a mere 'challenge,' combining the Waikiki Roughwater Swim, Around-Oahu Bike Race, and Honolulu Marathon, little did they realize it would evolve into an event that epitomizes the ultimate endurance test. Which we know and love today as IRONMAN. 

Mark Allen's victory in the 1989 IRONMAN Triathlon World Championship, famously known as the "Iron War," marked a turning point in the sport's history. He triumphed over his rival Dave Scott in a dramatic race that is still regarded as one of the most thrilling in triathlon history. Allen's win, after years of being defeated by Scott, showcased his resilience and strategic prowess. He went on to win a total of six IRONMAN World Championship titles (1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, and 1995), setting new standards for endurance and determination in the sport. Allen's achievements led to his induction into the Ironman Hall of Fame in 1997, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest triathletes of all time. 

Paula Newby-Fraser, known as the "Queen of Kona," was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1996. As an eight-time IRONMAN champion, she is widely regarded as one of the greatest female endurance athletes of all time. With her ability to consistently perform at a high level in one of the most grueling endurance events in the world, she set numerous course records and was a pioneer for women in triathlon. Beyond her unparalleled success on the Big Island, Newby-Fraser's global presence extended through her victories in IRONMAN events worldwide, passionately promoting the IRONMAN ethos wherever she competed. 

Scott Tinley, a two-time IRONMAN World Champion in 1982 and 1985, is celebrated for his pivotal role in shaping triathlon's early years. His competitive skills and entrepreneurial spirit, exemplified by his iconic clothing line, made him a standout figure in the sport. Beyond his victories, Tinley was known for his charisma and influence, contributing to the popularity and growth of triathlon in the 1980s. Inducted into the IRONMAN Hall of Fame for his lasting impact and contributions, Tinley continues to inspire athletes worldwide with his legacy of perseverance and innovation. 

In 1994, the IRONMAN Hall of Fame recognized a pivotal figure who helped elevate the sport of triathlon, despite not winning its most prestigious race. Julie Moss, a young college student from San Diego, became an enduring symbol of perseverance during the February 1982 IRONMAN World Championship. Just yards from the finish line, Moss succumbed to exhaustion and dehydration, collapsing and then crawling towards the end. Although Kathleen McCartney ultimately claimed victory by passing Moss, the gripping scene was broadcasted worldwide by ABC's Wide World of Sports, immortalizing Moss's heroic determination. Julie Moss's courageous effort not only captured hearts but also catapulted triathlon into the spotlight, inspiring countless athletes. Her unforgettable display of grit and resilience exemplifies the enduring spirit of IRONMAN endurance events. 

Dave Scott, the inaugural inductee into the IRONMAN Hall of Fame in 1993, is a towering figure in triathlon circles known simply as "The Man." His remarkable achievement of six IRONMAN victories throughout the 1980s profoundly influenced the event's early development. Renowned for his unwavering intensity and exceptional athletic talent, Scott exemplified the demanding nature of IRONMAN racing, showcasing the need for both mental fortitude and physical strength. Scott’s Hall of Fame induction was solidified by his impressive comeback performances at ages 40 and 43. At 40, he narrowly missed victory, finishing second to Greg Welch, and at 43, he astoundingly placed fifth overall. Beyond his competitive career, Scott has remained active in the triathlon community, offering guidance as a coach, mentor, and advocate for the sport through various platforms. His enduring legacy as one of the greatest IRONMAN athletes of all time continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, cementing his place in triathlon history.