A WESTBURY woman will be travelling to Hawaii next month to compete in the Ironman World Championships.
Diane Hier is no stranger to tough endurances races with this race being her fifth Ironman challenge. But reaching the World Championships has been her dream for a long time.
“I started running long distance in my late 30s and then began competing in triathlons in my late 40s, but to enter the Kailua-Kona in Hawaii is the ultimate triathlon – it’s a huge event and has always been a dream of mine to enter.
“It’s one of the toughest endurance races with a 2.4 mile swim, then a 112-mile bike ride, followed by a full marathon. There is a cut off time of 17 hours to finish the race and you have to finish each section in a certain time. The last Ironman race I completed in 12 hours and 24 minutes, which is my best time, so I’m confident I’ll finish in the 17 hours.
“I’m feeling a little nervous but more excited. I’ve been training for many months so I feel prepared. It does take a lot of time and effort to get ready for an Ironman, training at least 15 hours a week. Thankfully I have a very supportive family who have been training with me – my husband Ian and my daughters Leanne and Vicky have both completed an Ironman so we can train together. We’re a very active family, even our dog Johnson comes out with us.
“I’ve had great support from friends, especially Sean and Jane May who have very generously sponsored me, which paid for my flight to Hawaii.
“I also have wonderful support from the groups I am a member of; Avon Valley Runners, DB Max Swim Group, Warminster Masters Swimming Club and Avon Valley Triathletes. It’s great to be able to train with them and have their support.
“Of course I would love to do well in my age group but you can only do your own race and not worry about anyone else. I’m sure everyone will be on top form and ready to go, so I just want to enjoy it.”
