The Ironman Triathlon, originating in Hawaii in 1978, combines a 3.86 km swim, a 180.25 km bike ride, and a 42.20 km run. Athletes must complete all three segments consecutively within 17 hours to finish. The event was conceived by combining existing endurance races, with the first participant, Gordon Haller, completing it in under 12 hours. It is recognized globally as a highly demanding endurance competition.