The television coverage of the Ford Ironman World Championship has long provided the most visible and inspiring images of the event to the world. Ironman’s crowning moment came in 1982 when ABC’s cameras captured a scene that would be etched in the minds of millions for years to come. The scene that would come to embody the spirit of Ironman showed a young woman named Julie Moss, physically and mentally spent, drawing on only heart and fortitude to crawl across the finish line. Those images of courage and determination launched Ironman into an international sensation and have kept television viewers riveted to their sets ever since.

For almost three decades, the drama of Ironman Triathlon has captured the attention of millions around the world. Its compelling stories of ordinary people accomplishing the extraordinary move and inspire television viewers of all ages.

Each year, a crew of approximately 40 people cover the 140.6-mile course in spite of logistical and communication challenges. While there is much planning involved, how the race will unfold is never guaranteed. Favorites can drop out early or never become a factor, unknowns can surface and age group athletes may not keep their pace. For the television crew, it’s a long grueling day that starts at 3 AM and lasts until 2 AM when everyone finally calls it a day. For Ironman athletes, it all turns into 90 minutes of riveting television.