2024 Ironman World Championships

IRONMAN KONA

This October, I have the opportunity to compete in the Ironman World Championships in Kona Hawaii. The Ironman World Championships is the dream of every triathlete. Having the opportunity to be on the world’s stage, to participate and finish this iconic race is everything. Over the years there has been several Physically Challenged (PC) Athletes that have had the privilege to participate and become part of Ironman and Triathlon history. It is my dream to do the same.

INTRODUCTION: My name is Michael Andreasen, I am 47 years old, 4 foot 7 inches tall, and my genetic condition is called hypochondroplasia, a form of disproportionate (short-limb) dwarfism. I have been married for 14 year to my wonderful wife Tara, who also has a form of dwarfism, and together we support each other in our needs, goals, passions, and dreams.

MY TRIATHLON JOURNEY: My triathlon journey started in 2019 at the age of 41. My first triathlon was the Super Seal Sprint. That race was the defining moment I developed this passion and a new journey for me. When I was in line to pick up my bib, the one and only legend himself “Bob Babbitt” was there. Bob has been a mentor to me ever since that day. In 2019, I competed in 5 small local triathlons and from there my journey continued. Overall, I have competed in 19 Sprint/Olympic/International distance, 3 Special Distance (CAF) Triathlons, and 9 Ironman 70.3’s. Long story short, in the last 5 years I have completed 28 plus triathlons not counting the Ironman VR races in 2020, and a few half marathons. My moto: my disability does not define me. It is not who I am nor does it limit me from what I can achieve. I am “uniquely abled”, not disabled. It is time for my next challenge, a full Ironman.

The Ironman “World Championships 2024”.

This October I will show the world what a person with dwarfism can do and what they can achieve given the opportunity. I would become the first person with dwarfism to complete the Ironman World Championships. As you can imagine, the expense of this race in Kona is enormous. I would be eternally grateful to any support you can provide.

Thank you

Michael