Knibb Aims for Historic Third Title as Olympic Talent Joins Ironman 70.3 Worlds
Taylor Knibb aims for a historic third straight title while Olympic medalists from Paris shake up both pro fields at December's championship in Taupō.
The women's race at the 2024 Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Taupō has all the ingredients for an epic showdown, with Taylor Knibb looking to make history against a field packed with both established champions and Olympic talent.
Knibb enters as the clear favorite, carrying an unbeaten record in middle-distance racing throughout 2024. The American's bid for a third consecutive title would put her in rare company, but she'll face her stiffest test yet from a deep field of challengers.
Last year's podium is back in full force. Great Britain's Kat Matthews returns after an impressive 2024 campaign that included a runner-up finish at the Ironman World Championship in Nice. Switzerland's Imogen Simmonds, a two-time bronze medalist at this event, rounds out the returning podium trio.
The Olympic injection comes from Switzerland's Julie Derron, whose silver medal in Paris adds serious credibility to her perfect podium record in 70.3 racing. Derron has never finished outside the top three in her three 70.3 starts, including a win at 70.3 Switzerland this year.
The middle-distance specialists aren't about to let the newcomers have it all their way. Ashleigh Gentle brings both Olympic experience and four 70.3 titles to the table. Her Australian compatriot Ellie Salthouse arrives with 18 70.3 victories under her belt, including 2024 wins at Boulder and Melbourne. Canada's Paula Findlay, the 2022 70.3 Worlds runner-up, adds another layer of proven championship experience to the mix.
The inaugural Ironman Pro Series title adds extra spice to the racing. Current leader Jackie Hering holds a 257-point advantage over Matthews, but the math favors the Brit. While Hering can only improve on her lowest scoring race, Matthews still has one 70.3 score to add, making the championship a potential double-payday opportunity.
The women take centre stage on 14th December, with live coverage available free across multiple platforms.
Key Contenders
- Taylor Knibb (USA) - Two-time Defending Champion, Undefeated in 2024
- Kat Matthews (GBR) - 2023 Runner-up, IMWC Nice Silver Medalist
- Julie Derron (CHE) - Olympic Silver Medalist, Perfect 70.3 Podium Record
- Imogen Simmonds (CHE) - Two-time 70.3 Worlds Bronze Medalist
- Ashleigh Gentle (AUS) - Four-time 70.3 Champion
- Paula Findlay (CAN) - 2022 70.3 Worlds Runner-up
- Jackie Hering (USA) - Pro Series Leader
