As the women’s 2025 Ironman World Championship approaches on October 11 in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, organisers are urging athletes, supporters, and visitors to respect local culture, environment, and community values under the banner of the “Live Aloha” initiative.
For nearly five decades, Hawaii has been synonymous with the Ironman World Championship, and the event’s return to the Big Island continues to highlight the balance between athletic achievement and cultural stewardship. This year, the Ironman Group is emphasising the importance of safety, environmental responsibility, and community awareness as preparations intensify in the final days before the race.
Athletes are being reminded to train safely and “be pono” – to act with integrity and respect – while sharing roads and public spaces with residents. Organisers have issued updated cycling guidelines, urging participants to avoid narrow or high-traffic roads that lack hard shoulders. Specifically, athletes are asked not to cycle on sections of Hwy 190/Palani Rd, Hwy 180/Old Mamalahoa, Hwy 11/Queen Ka‘ahumanu Hwy, and Hwy 160/Napo‘opo‘o Rd, due to safety and congestion concerns.
A “Kokua” (help) patrol team will monitor training activity and offer assistance where needed. Cyclists are reminded to follow all local traffic laws, ride single file, and remain alert to their surroundings at all times.
The “Live Aloha” campaign forms part of Ironman’s ongoing effort to ensure that the event contributes positively to Hawaii’s host communities. The initiative also promotes environmental awareness, including the protection of the island’s coral reefs. Participants and visitors are encouraged to use mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, avoiding chemical ingredients such as avobenzone, homosalate, and octocrylene, which can harm marine ecosystems.
The broader message of “Living Aloha” extends beyond race week. Larry Lindsey Kauanoe Kimura, a leading figure in Hawaiian language revitalisation, describes the concept of being pono as “living in perfect harmony with all things” and recognising a custodial relationship with the planet.
New for 2025, Ironman has introduced a “Watch and Wait” area in partnership with the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort. The free spectator zone, located behind the resort, will feature shaded seating, live race coverage, food trucks, and a cash bar. It will also serve as the first designated meet-up point for finishers and their supporters, open from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on race day.
As thousands of athletes and fans descend on Kailua-Kona, organisers hope that the spirit of “Live Aloha” will guide all who take part – both on and off the course.