Race Coverage

Vaseline, Slushees, The Voice....

Monday, 27 October 2025 00:10

By Cami Eckhoff

...Tomorrow I turn 40, and I knew I wanted to kick off this next decade with something epic! After many months of training and dedication, the dream became real—I crossed the finish line at the Ironman World Championship. It’s hard to put the past week into words, but the memories are etched in my heart forever. Here’s my (long) race recap

The morning began with the most amazing hype crew of volunteers—smiles, clapping, cheers, and constant “this is your day!” energy. On my way to the swim start, I ran into Keith, Kia, Nick, Mel, and Josh—such an awesome surprise! Big hugs all around and one last dance party to the song they wrote for me (still trying to figure out how to share a bit of that super special song!).

The 2.4 mile swim: It was the toughest, yet most beautiful swim I’ve ever done. The crashing waves seemed to never end. I took it one buoy at a time — when I could site them — and one breath at a time — trying not to take a huge gulp of salt water. I also started to chafe under my arms from the salt water rubbing on my kit about 20 minutes in. Unfortunate for sure, but I knew there would be Vaseline in transition...

The 112-mile bike: Like the swim— it was the most challenging yet most scenic rides I’ve ever done. Riding through black lava fields with mountain and ocean views all around was pretty unreal. I didn’t quite hit my target watts, but I listened to my body, keeping my heart rate and nutrition in check. Miles 50–60 were especially brutal, with a steady climb into a headwind. I’d packed three frozen bottles with my own nutrition in a cooler for personal needs (at mile 60) the night before, and it was such a treat to sip on my little “slushee” before they melted! The final 30 miles were a grind—hot, tiring, and mentally tough. I was so thankful to spot my support crew out on the course a few times—they gave me the boost I needed to keep pushing. Coming into T2, I was so thankful to have had zero mechanical issues, an answered prayer for sure!

The 26.2 mile run: I saw my crew at mile 1, and literally felt on top of the world, only 25 miles to go! Every time I glanced at my watch I was at a pace I had trained to hold, yet afraid to keep working towards it because I didn’t want to blow up from the heat, humidity, and exhaustion or have ankle pain. Then, around mile 8, all of a sudden the words- “fear not, for I am with you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand came to my mind.” I couldn’t recall the scripture reference but I knew this was God’s voice so I kept repeating to myself, fear not- I am with you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Mile after mile, holding the same pace, I wasn’t afraid anymore. I’d squeeze my right hand and feel an unspeakable power that I know only comes from the Lord. I grabbed water and ice at every aid station, along with taking in my own nutrition plus a couple extra gels on course. Descending Palani Road onto Alii Drive at mile 25, I was flooded with emotion as I could feel the finish line victory! Rounding the final corner, seeing my husband and friends wildly cheering, the red carpet and the finish line arch was magical! God is so good! So many answered prayers!

To Shyanne- my coach and friend. Thank you for being with me on this journey from the very beginning in 2020! You helped me get to each start line healthy and happy!

To Keith- for being the best teammate in life, showing unconditional love and constant support to each and every wild goal and dream.
To my incredible support crew — My heart is bursting with gratitude. You all showed up in a really big way, even wearing Hawaiian shirts with my face all over them! Experiencing Kona with them you was the best gift I could ever receive!

To each and every volunteer (5,000 that day!)- thank you!! Your servant hearts made a huge impact.

Until next time, Mahalo!