HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Kailua-Kona is days away from hosting an iconic global sporting event where triathletes from around the world race for the Ironman world champion crown.

Competitors will swim 2.4 miles across Kailua Bay, bike 112 miles along the coast and run 26.2 miles through the barren lava fields of Hawaii Island.

The winner of the 140-mile course will also receive a $375,000 purse.

The organization will hold a news conference Thursday with top male triathletes in Kona to hear how they are preparing for the grueling competition. Click here to watch.

The women’s competition will take place in France this year.

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