A record field will compete at the 27th Ironman New Zealand next Saturday, with 1500 entrants from 40 countries.
Many of them arrive in Taupo this week with inspiring stories to tell.
All ironmen athletes have made huge sacrifices to attempt the gruelling distance of a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42km run and many share the bond of rising above adversity.
For these athletes ironman has become a life-changing experience.
* Well-known North Shore triathlete John Friary has encouraged his son Liam who has lost 55kg on his journey to IMNZ.