Oliver Hobson
Project Kona
2024
After years of watching Kona world championships from the living room and twice getting to see it in person as my Dad was racing I am extremely proud to say that it is now my turn to go to this legendary race. I qualified for Kona 2023 in AG 18 to 24 but as there was no male race in 2023 I deferred to 2024. This does mean I will now race the tougher AG of 25 to 29 and I will be one of the youngest, actually I will still be 24! I go with the dream of getting on the podium but know this will be tough. I also know that just enjoying the experience and doing my best is key in this sport. I do have the goal of turning Pro by the year 2026 and this race is extremely important to help me evolve and achieve my goal.
Kona is a magical place and a magical race. There is no other race in the world that compares, it’s where triathlon started and a place so many dream to go. I know how lucky I am and I will never forget this.
I have never been good at asking for help but this trip is crazy expensive so I am swallowing my pride and asking now. I am looking for sponsorship to help cover the costs of the trip (entry, flights, accomodation and some small equipment needs). I do feel it’s wrong to ask as I know there are more important things in life but if you are able to help or know anyone or business willing to help it would be amazing as any little help will make a massive difference to me! I can not offer much in return but do plan to write a daily blog and you can follow my Instagram reels in the lead up to the race and also happy to add logos to kit and bike. Or maybe you have specific questions you would like to ask or products for me to test!!
2010
2010 at the age of ten I got to see Hawaii IM and already I had a dream
2015
2015 I was lucky to see Hawaii IM again and now I was sure I would be back
2022
2022 after winning my AG in Vichy IM I secured my slot for Kona and knew my dream could come true