On 8 October the starting shot for the IRONMAN World Championship will sound in Kona, Hawaii. Among the competitors for the title will be Mercedes-Benz brand ambassador Anja Beranek. The professional triathlete from Nürnberg in Germany has been making intensive preparations for Hawaii, accompanied by the compact camper van Marco Polo. The partnership between Anja Beranek and Mercedes-Benz Vans is part of the brand’s extensive involvement in triathlon; including the sponsorship of female triathletes as of this year.
“The IRONMAN on Hawaii is not just the highlight of the season, it’s also the toughest race and requires thorough preparation. Mercedes-Benz Vans has provided a Marco Polo for my training. The camper van has proved to be the ideal companion on my way to Kona. As well as having enough room for equipment and getting changed, it also has a roof bed and kitchen. So it’s a real energy booster”, says Anja Beranek.
“We are keeping our fingers crossed for Anja and our other brand ambassadors taking part in Hawaii. We are very excited”, says Nicolai Berger, Head of Marketing Communications and Product Information Mercedes-Benz Vans.
As well as Anja Beranek, Mercedes-Benz is supporting the following athletes in Hawaii: Jan Frodeno (2015 IRONMAN World Champion, 2015 European Champion), Sebastian Kienle (2014 IRONMAN World Champion, 2014 and 2016 European Champion) and team members Kaisa Lehtonen and Timo Bracht from the Laureus Triathlon Team Sport for Good.
The IRONMAN World Championship has been taking place in Kona, Hawaii, since 1981. The challenge is to swim 3.8 kilometres in the Pacific, cycle 180 kilometres on a race bike through lava fields and, finally, run a marathon through the desert.
