Yet these same people could watch a race that is 5 times or 10 times the distance and it would have no effect on them, because these are races that really, are for a small segment of the population and don't have anywhere near the amazing history and credibility of the Ironman.

Truly, the Ironman is in a league of its own. It will always be a race for everyone from weekend warriors to the worlds best pros, and I can't imagine an endurance event that will ever be able to match it for popularity on a world scale.

copyright:Ironstruck-2006

My name is Ray and I've competed in 14 Ironman races, over 35 marathons, several 50 mile marathons, and 100+ shorter races over an endurance career of 25+ years.

I've built a site for the beginner triathlete/novice ironman called "ironstruck" and it has many training and racing that may be useful in achieving your triathlon goals...