Two-time Memorial Hermann North American Ironman Champion Matt Hanson gives a look into the daily life of a pro

THE WOODLANDS, Texas—As the Memorial Hermann Ironman North American Championship approaches, Woodlands Online has presented profiles of some of the faces that make the race possible. We sat down with 2015 and 2017 Ironman North American champion Matt Hanson before the big race to see how a professional goes about their day.

Hanson, a resident of Storm Lake, IA has competed professionally since 2013 after receiving his pro-card here in The Woodlands after a second-place finish in his age group and third overall amateur.

Since gaining notoriety as a successful pro in the Ironman community, Hanson continues to train year-round. His full-time job may be unique compared to the normal 9-5, but it’s all about triathlons from the minute he wakes up till about 4:30 in the afternoon when Hanson finds time to spend with his family and dogs. While training all day may seem like too much, Hanson states the benefits of being a full-time Ironman “I get to live a normal life outside of it. We get the advantage of a fairly normal sleep schedule compared to those having to work a full-time job and still have to find the time to train.”

A professional cannot do everything on their own without some help from others. Hanson mentions the importance of the Ironman community and being included as one of their own. The two-time North American Champion stays with a local family residing in The Woodlands a month before the race begins. “The community is a big reason why I keep coming back to Texas—I consider this my home race” said Hanson. Being away from home for a total of four months out of the year, Hanson finds a place away from home here in The Woodlands.

Come and support locals and visitors April 28 for the Ironman North American Championships and see some of the world’s best up close as they compete for a slot in Kona’s World Championship.