Two days before race morning, a select group of the world’s best gathered in Kona for a closed door media panel, one last time ahead of the final women’s only Ironman World Championship. The atmosphere was light, reflective, and full of mutual respect.
Jackie Hering drew laughter when she reminded everyone that Saturday is also her birthday. “I am still doing an Ironman, so I am holding any RSVPs until after the finish line,” she said with a grin. Her message to fans was clear: if you see her out on the Queen K, tell her she looks strong.
Marjolaine Pierre shared the joy of training alongside Lucy Charles-Barclay and partner Clément Mignon under coach Reese Barclay. When asked if Lucy shared any tips during their Lanzarote camp, Marjolaine smiled wide, holding her secrets close and sharing no words with the media. On race day, she said, “The focus is definitely on that finish line,” where her magical moment will be seeing Clément waiting for her there.
Lucy Charles-Barclay, when asked if a gun to tape race could happen again this year, said she is in great shape having missed no run sessions – a testament to her body’s health and resilience this season. “You need to have your best day,” she said. “You need the island gods on your side. You need to be lucky.” She agreed that the women’s field is deeper and stronger than in 2023 and promised fans an incredible show.
Chelsea Sodaro reflected on the growth and lessons that followed her 2022 World Championship win. With a new team behind her who unconditionally support and rally around her, Chelsea said she draws strength from the cheers that have become her mantra, “yes yes yes.”
Kat Matthews admitted that this season has marked her first opportunity to dive into genuine training block in a long time, given a lighter race calendar. “I realized I’m not sure I’m actually a racer, I like training,” she shared. “I like training every day and being empowered by the daily grind.” She laughed while sharing a typical morning debate: run less or run more? Mark, her husband and run coach, always answers decisively, “We’ll run more.”
From reigning World Champion Laura Philipp, we heard that she has not raced since summer, dedicating extra time to her Kona build. Admittedly trying new things this year, she said she is exploring how far she can go under the guidance of her husband and coach Phillip, who has been with her since day one. “We need strong competition to push our limits, lifting each other up,” she shared. Laura also reminded the room that this is the last women only edition and urged everyone to savour it. When asked what it feels like to wear bib number one, she smiled, “I will find my bike easy.”
With nerves, laughter, and purpose, the women of Kona are ready to deliver an unforgettable race.
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