Ironman Arizona Faces Challenges Ahead of Race Weekend

TEMPE, AZ — Rain is expected from Saturday night into Sunday morning, raising concerns about bacteria levels and water temperature for the swim portion of the Arizona Ironman race. Athletes have trained for months, even years, and competitors hope for a smooth swim.

For racer Jane Lavell, challenges are nothing new. “The word ‘impossible’ makes me laugh,” Lavell said. She assists kids with scoliosis, helping them achieve what others call the impossible. “When I turned 50, I needed to choose something that I think is impossible,” she added.

Lavell is racing in her sixth attempt at the Arizona Ironman. “I’ve been trying for six years now,” she said. Each race has brought unexpected hurdles. “One year was due to a hamstring cramp and the other was the rolling start in the water. Every year, there was something that surprised me.”

This year, the rain could affect the swim. “There was concern online,” Lavell said. “If it does, we will do the bike and run.” At 60 years old, she remains focused on completing the 140.6-mile challenge for her family and patients watching from home. “It means I have to finish. I will do the impossible,” Lavell said.

Thousands of athletes are poised to race. Ironman officials noted the event might face cancellation of the swim portion due to significant construction and growth in the Phoenix–Tempe area, complicating the ability to create a secure bike course.