Written by: - Gary and Christine Stamper (CMC members)
While winter does not come to Kona, Hawaii, hibernation does. The flurry of cyclists and runners training along Alii Drive has quieted, as athletes opt for rest before race day. And, apparently, Chris McCormack began his hibernation a few hours earlier than expected. Perhaps, absence makes the feud grow stronger.
Earlier this week, Mark Allen suggested that today’s pro triathletes are not willing to risk it all in Kona - they do not discard their heart rate monitors and just go until they drop. Taking Allen’s cue … we’ve decided to risk it and make our race predictions.
In the men’s race, Gary believes Chris McCormack will win, breaking a course record. Faris Al Sultan will nab second, leaving Norman Stadler in third. I also believe McCormack will win but without the record. Rutger Beke will take second, leaving Tim DeBoom in third.
In the women’s race, I choose Samantha McGlone to follow in the footsteps of Luc Van Lierde and win on her first attempt at Ironman. Natascha Badmann will take second and Michellie Jones third. Gary chooses Michellie Jones to win, Desiree Ficker for second and Samantha McGlone for third.
And while we are prognosticating … we predict the four Missouri competitors to beat the two from Oklahoma.
- Gary and Christine Stamper
Columbians Gary and Christine Stamper are in Kona, Hawaii, this week to observe the Ironman World Championship and are writing about their experiences for the Tribune.
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