OED Appeal: Ironman

[ADSGarson O'Toole]

The January 1979 issue of the magazine Runner's World included a
calendar of events in a section called "Around the Country: A
compilation of what's happening in the world of running". In the
Hawaii section a short note mentioned an upcoming triathlon and used
the term "Iron Man".

This antedates the May 1979 Sports Illustrated citation, but does not
achieve the desired year of 1978. The Wikipedia entry for "Ironman
Triathlon" states that the winner of the first event in 1978 was
referred to as an "Iron Man", but it is less clear when the term
shifted and was used to reference the event.

Cite: 1979 January, Runner's World, Around the Country: Hawaii, Start
Page 102, Quote Page 196, World Publications, Inc., Mountain View,
California. (Verified on paper; Telephone number has been replaced
with four Xs)

[Begin excerpt]
MARATHONS
JAN 13: Hawaiian "Iron-Man" Triathlon, 2.4-Mile
Ocean Swim, 112-Mile Bike Ride, 26.2-Mile Run,
Honolulu (7 am). '78 Winner: Gordon Haller 11:56:00.
John Collins, 1656 Piikea St., Honolulu, Hi. 96818.
(808) 422-XXXX. Comments: Entrants must furnish own
escort, vehicle and driver; entry $8.
[End excerpt]

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