(Image: Ironman)
Ironman has changed the way in which it allocates qualifying slots for the World Championship in Kona, with all qualification events around the world now combining slot allocation and rolldown into one ceremony.
This means that qualifying athletes now need to claim their slot in person at an allocation ceremony, or else lose it to the next qualifying athlete in their age-group. At least one qualifying slot will be allocated per age-group, with more slots to be allocated on the basis of how many race starters there are.
In the past, athletes could automatically qualify by finishing before a set cut-off time, without needing to attend the rolldown ceremony. For more detailed information on how the new slot allocation and rolldown process works, head to Ironman's Qualifying for Kona FAQ page here.
Are you aiming for Kona this year? How are your preparations going so far? Let us know in the comments below!