New York Times: People stand in line a year in advance for a chance to compete in an Ironman.

When Iron Is a Precious Metal
Ironman competitions are in demand, despite rising entry fees.
The New York Times, September 11, 2008

New York Times: cheaper alternatives to Ironmans

Alternative Race Routes
Cheaper alternatives to Ironman triathlons
The New York Times, September 11, 2008

New York Times: Why have recent triathlon deaths occured during the swim portion?

Deaths Draw Attention to Triathlon Swim
While triathlon deaths remain rare, a puzzling resemblance is beginning to present itself: all recorded deaths in the last two years have happened during the swim portion of the event.
The New York Times, July 31, 2008