Believe it or not, every year tens of thousands of people line up to swim 2.4 miles in open water, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles. All in one day. While the growth of the ‘Ironman’ over the last decade has been nothing short of remarkable, the finishers are still considered to be an elite group – your chances of meeting an Ironman in everyday life are around 1 in 1,000.
With that being said, today, Ironman operates 230+ events in 53 countries (almost double the amount compared to 2013) and continues to sell out nearly all of them. It is the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance and is proving to be incredibly popular with dedicated professionals look to push their limits.
Victor’s very own Will Taylor, Commercial Jet Sales Associate, (pictured left) is one of only a handful of people who can lay claim to conquering one of the most gruelling yet rewarding races on the planet. Below, Will offers insights into the world’s most prestigious Ironman events and the most efficient ways to get there by private jet.
Destination 1: Hawaii/Kona
Saturday, October 14th, 2023.
How would you get there?
Fly direct to Kona using a heavy jet, with a 14-hour flight time from London
What aircraft would you take?
A Global 7500 could operate a London to Kona flight directly, it is also well-equipped and capable of transporting 20 large suitcases.
Why is it worth travelling here?
Kona ironman is invite only – you can only enter the ironman if your results for another ironman allow you to qualify in the top % of athletes in your age and gender category.
Challenging and mountainous terrain makes it a very difficult event, but one to never forget if you are lucky enough to participate.
While you are there, why not consider sticking around in a three acre estate in the enchanting Kona Cloud Forest in Kaloko? Our Alto Partners, StayOne, are currently offering a range of stunning villas in the Hawaiian Islands.
Destination 2: Gdynia, Poland
August 6, 2023
How would you get there?
From London, flying into Gdansk (GDN), a light jet would be suitable with a 2hr 15m flight time
What aircraft would you take?
Hawker 400XP, operated by SMART Jet, as they are a client-preferred operator.
Why is it worth travelling here?
Set on the Baltic sea, Gdansk is rich in history and set in a beautiful but rural city.
The ironman swim starts in the Baltic sea, 10 km away from Gdansk in the port city of Gdynia, with the cycle circling through the picturesque, rolling hills of the region.
Destination 3: Langkawi, Malaysia
October 7, 2023
How would you get there?
With the 13-hour flight time from London, a Falcon 7X aircraft would be suitable for a direct flight. However, with just a short hop from Kuala Lumpur, it is worth considering ‘Siam Flying Land’ using their Hawker 850XP aircraft to connect the final 1hr of the journey from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi. Langkawi is also a very similar distance away from Singapore.
What aircraft would you take?
A Hawker 850XP aircraft, operated by Siam Flying Land would be suitable from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi
Why is it worth travelling here?
This region requires very little introduction. Many will know that it is a beautiful island with pristine, picturesque beaches. A great place to stick around after a race for some rest and recovery.