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If you are a triathlete, there is no bigger day in this sport than the Ford Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. While there are thousands of triathlons around the world, it is this one that truly defines the sport. It was this race, first run in 1978 as a dare by a bunch of Navy Seals that put triathlon on the world's sporting map. It is triathlon's Super Bowl, Wimbledon, World Series, World Cup, and Tour de France all rolled into one. What makes this event so unique is that "average" people get to compete alongside the best in the world.

To get to the starting line in Kona, you must either be very lucky and get yourself a spot through the lottery, or very talented, and win yourself a qualifying spot at one of the qualifying events held around the world. Tens-of-thousands of triathletes try to get one of those coveted Ironman spots every year. Only 1800 athletes will be at the starting line this year.

The Ironman World Championship in Kona is one of the toughest courses to complete. Although set in the tropical beauty of one of Hawaii's most unspoiled islands, it is widely known for the oppressive lava-field heat and gale-force winds. Athletes must complete each event within time frames that are not forgiving for the ill-prepared or face disqualification. The race officially starts at 7am and all swimmers must complete the 2.4-mile swim by 9:20 am, the 112 mile bicycle by 5:30 pm and the race officially ends at midnight whether you've crossed the finish line or not.

From thousands of applicants, Thom was one of the lucky ones and won one of the 150 lottery slots allotted for American athletes and was 1 of a handful from New York City to win a slot. Having been a member New York City's Terrier Tri since it was founded a few years ago, he has run a few triathlons for fun but has never attempted a full Ironman distance race.

He dedicated his race to benefit .