American Legion-sponsored INDYCAR driver finishes Kona triathlon while raising awareness of the Legion’s “Be the One” initiative.
Indianapolis 500 champion Tony Kanaan is an Ironman, again.
Kanaan, who drove the No. 1 American Legion / Be the One INDYCAR to a third-place finish in the 2022 Indianapolis 500, finished the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, in a time of 12:39:53 on Sunday. An Ironman triathlon is a 2.4-mile ocean swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run to the finish line.
During the biking segment, Kanaan promoted The American Legion’s Be the One initiative. The 2013 Indy 500 champion donned American Legion red, white and blue “Be the One” gear and rode a specially made tri bike adorned with the logo.
In May, Kanaan helped launch the program, which aims to reduce the rate of veteran suicide by reducing the stigma associated with mental health counseling. “It’s such a good cause – ‘Be the One,’” Kanaan said April 20 during a press event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. “I made the pledge to the veterans to advocate that … if you need help, ask.”
Fellow driver Jimmie Johnson, who like Kanaan, represents The American Legion, sent congratulations via Twitter. “Well done brother, you’re a mad man.”
In response, Kanaan, simply tweeted, “@JimmieJohnson you are next.”
In 2011, Kanaan also completed Kona, which is regarded as the Indy 500 of the Ironman world.
Catch up with Kanaan’s activities in Kona via The American Legion’s Twitter account, Facebook page and Instagram page.
You can also follow Kanaan on his Twitter page and his Instagram account.
- Suicide Prevention