DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
The IRONMAN Foundation champions diversity advocacy efforts that proactively remove participation barriers to welcome more diverse individuals to endurance sports no matter their race, gender, physical or mental abilities, socioeconomic status, and more. We provide grants and support to organizations and programs aimed at identifying and removing these barriers that impact diverse athlete groups.
Race For Change Relay Teams
"You excel where you feel a connection, where you feel accepted, where you feel noticed. I look forward to the expansion of this sport with more black representation at all levels, including more like me."- Bonita, Ohio
Race For Change relay teams provide the opportunity for the IRONMAN Foundation to welcome and support athletes of color who previously might not have particpated in triathlons.
Physically Challenged & Intellectually Disabled Support
In 2020, the IRONMAN Foundation invited Chris Nikic to join TEAM IMF and supported his efforts to become the first person with Down Syndrome to complete an IRONMAN race, providing him with a race bike, gear, and more.
In 2022, Chris became the first person with Down Syndrome to cross the finish line at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kailua-Kona. Sam Holness also made history when he became the first openly Autistic triathlete to cross the IRONMAN World Championship finish line that same day.
Chris Nikic and Sam Holness are now IRONMAN Foundation Ambassadors, teaming up with us to inspire others who are physically challenged or intellectually disabled and show them that Anything Is Possible.
Women For Tri
Since its inception in 1978, IRONMAN has been distinctive in its inclusion of female and male competitors across the same courses and distances, with the same challenges and rules. In keeping with the unique spirit of our sport, Women for Tri looks to increase and support female participation in IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 events around the world.
In 2023, in line with IRONMAN's efforts, the IRONMAN Foundation will spotlight the strength and perseverance of 30 incredible women committed to not only crossing the finish line in Kailua-Kona, HI but to leaving a positive impact in the race communities where IRONMAN athletes live, train, and race.
To learn more about racing with the IRONMAN Foundation at the 2023 Women's VinFast IRONMAN World Championship in Kailua-Kona email info@ironmanfoundation.org.