Matt Russell returns to Kona
A year after a devastating crash, Russell's comeback season comes full circle

Yesterday, Matt Russell on his social media accounts announced that he received a wildcard entry into this year’s IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. After discussing with his family, he has decided to return to the island and compete for a top 10 placing at this year’s race.
On August 22nd, Andrew Messick (CEO of IRONMAN) delivered the news to Russell that he was the first professional to not qualify for the championship based on the point system. However, considering the circumstances and the near miss in qualifying 10 months after a devastating crash, Messick offered Russell a wildcard slot for this year’s race.
Related: The remarkable comeback of Matt Russell
Two years ago, Russell finished 12th in the professional men’s field, a race that was won by Jan Frodeno. Last year, Russell DNF’d following a collision with a van on the bike course. After months of recovery and rehab, he returned to triathlon at IRONMAN 70.3 Texas. The return was difficult but it gave him hope that he could return.
In the past month, Russell has finished third twice – IRONMAN Canada in Whistler, BC, and IRONMAN Mont-Tremblant in the Quebec Laurentians. Now after a busy summer of racing, Russell will prepare for his return to Kona.