Early season Kona favorites?

It’s crazy to think that we are only in January and people are already talking about this year’s men to watch in Kona. If you had to pick the early season favorite; most of the votes would go to the Raelert brothers, Andreas and Michael.

Next vote, which brother will win?

Andreas finished second at the 2010 Ironman World Championship. Andreas had a classic battle with Chris McCormack (2X IMWC). These two giants, of the triathlon world, clashed on their way back into town; just outside of the Energy Lab.

Earlier in the 2010 season, Raelert and McCormack raced each other in Germany (Raelert’s home country). Andreas took the victory and he did it convincingly.

Michael, who is yet to race an Ironman distance triathlon, is the current 70.3 World Champion. Raelert has won this title in 2009 & 2010. When it comes to the 70.3 distance, Michael is darn near untouchable. This Raelert has the ability to lead the race to victory as he is strong in all three disciplines. Some, triathlon critics, may say Micheal is the complete triathlete at this distance.

Michael is the younger brother of Andreas, four years separate the brothers. Andreas is also Michaels coach. Rumor has it; Michael is the faster of these two men. We will see in Kona come October 8, 2011; where both Raelert brothers plan on racing the 2011 Ironman World Championships.

It is a long season as October is 9-months away. A lot can happen between now and then. So, all we can do now is sit back and watch to see how the season unfolds.