Ultraman Endurance Has an Unusual Start--a Hug

Triathletes are gearing up for what may be considered the ultimate endurance test--the three-day Ultraman competition that runs from sea level to 4,000-foot altitudes through lush tropical foliage and over hardened lava flows.

The Ultraman triathlon, which begins next Friday, is a three-day stage race over a 140.6-mile course that circles the island of Hawaii. It is one of only two triple-sport stage competitions in the United States where time is computed on a calendar as well as a clock.

The Ultraman involves a six-mile swim and 90-mile bike ride the first day, a 160-mile bike ride the second day and a 52.4-mile run on day three. The event is sanctioned by Triathlon Federation-USA as the National 1985 Ultra Distance Stage Championship.

The 1985 Ultraman includes a fourth activity in addition to the grueling swim, bike ride and run.

Hugs.

A traditional Hawaiian blessing is held prior to the start of the Ultraman followed by good luck hugs from race director Curtis Taylor.

“I believe in hugs,” said Tyler. “The only way we get through life together is to help one another.

“The event requires logistical and physical as well as spiritual support,” he said. “Our resources, both mental and physical, are shared for mutual victory.”

Athletes receive hugs before and after each stage of the competition.

The 72-hour competition begins with a six-mile ocean swim that requires competitors to battle strong currents.

The swim is immediately followed by a 90-mile bike ride that goes first through the barren and extensive lava flows that make up the South Kona district. By the time competitors reach South Point, the southernmost point in the United States, they will have encountered rains, fog and more headwinds.

The competitors then make a 30-mile climb to the finish at the 4,000-foot level in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The climb goes up Kilauea volcano, which has been sending up 1,000-foot fountains of lava off-and-on for the past three years.

Many athletes finish the ride after dark.