Timothy O'Donnell and Linsey Corbin react to Ironman World Championship news
After an initial postponement, Ironman officially cancelled the 2020 World Championships today. The race is an annual pilgrimage to Kona, Hawaii for the world’s best triathletes. Trek Factory Racing’s Timothy O’Donnell and Linsey Corbin shared their thoughts about what this means for 2020.
Timothy O’Donnell, 2019 Kona Runnerup:
“Like many triathletes and the triathlon industry, the Ironman World Championship is the focal point of my season. While disappointed that this year’s event is now cancelled, I respect and support Ironman’s decision to prioritize the health and safety of its athletes, their family and support teams, industry professionals, and of course the beloved community of Kona, Hawaii.
Many of us have endured great hardship over these past few months. While we cannot come together to support one another and celebrate the sport we love, I know that through this adversity, our wonderful community has grown stronger then ever. I look forward to joining my fellow athletes on the start line soon and I’m excited for the 2021 Ironman World Championship as it will truly be a celebration of our sport’s strength and resilience.”
Linsey Corbin, 13x Kona competitor:
“This is the first time the Ironman World Championship has been cancelled in its 43-year history. I have only missed the event once in the past 14 years – so I am really disappointed to hear the news. As a professional athlete my life is dictated around specific goals and Kona has always been my driving force and what motivates me each day. I won’t lie, I feel a bit “lost” without this carrot (and the other race cancellations we have seen) in front of me.
With that said, the current situation and challenges we are facing make this decision a logical one. My heart goes out to the communities, the race organization and other athletes that this directly impacts.
Endurance athletes are built for resilience, and I know that the 2021 start line will be all the sweeter. I have always said that a setback is a setup for something greater. You often learn more from the hard days, than you do the days where you come out on top.
I hope everyone continues to do their part to minimize the impacts of COVID so we can get back to doing what we love. In the meantime my principles as an athlete remain the same: focus on what you can do, seek out challenges and give my best effort. Time to go ride your bike, have some fun, and stay safe out there. We will see you all on the other side of this. “
