Chatting with IM Arizona Pre-Race Favorites
The always spectacular IRONMAN Arizona takes place tomorrow. It’s arguably one of the most dynamic pro fields to shape up here, headlined by the crew who we had the opportunity to sit down with here: Sam Long, Ben Kanute, Skye Moench, and Sarah True.
On the men’s side, both Sam and Ben are returning from racing each other at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in St George just a few weeks ago. Arizona is Ben’s first attempt at this distance. While still riding his high from placing 2nd at the 70.3 World Championship, he is focused on being competitive at the longer distance and racing a field deep with experience: Joe Skipper, Matt Hanson, Matt Russell, and more.
Long, meanwhile, seems to be coming into this race very re-focused after a disappointing race in St. George, including *that* five-minute penalty on the bike for a position foul that derailed his chances at making the podium.
Sam and Ben both have their work cut off for them and they know it. Many athletes are vying for the first IRONMAN World Championship slots on offer in the 2022-2023 qualification cycle and are coming off of disappointing races in either Kona or St. George. It’s bound to produce some dynamic racing.
On the women’s side, well, leave it to Skye to bring in some humor and keep it real. Sarah is very excited to be coming to Arizona in what she calls the middle of her season, and finally, in her own words, “not germed up” from her little one back at home in New Hampshire. Both women last raced in Kona six weeks ago – Moench finishing in 9th place, while True pulled off the road early on during the bike.
The women’s field has no shortage of talent ready to toe the line. Lauren Brandon is back in action, alongside Jen Annett, Melanie McQuaid, Renee Kiley, and more. It should be an excellent show.
Watch Live: Sunday, November 20th
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