AFTER overcoming travel delays, Mike Anthony reveals 'the butterflies' are growing as the 66-year-old prepares to tackle the World Ironman Championships in Hawai'i.

Mike, who competes for Wilmslow-based SCARAB Tri, qualified after winning the 66-70 age group of the Bolton Ironman in August.

Now he’s got potential 32 degrees heat, 80 percent humidity, 50mph winds and lava fields to contend with in what is the most iconic 140.6-mile journey of swimming, running and cycling of them all.

Mike, now running through his final preparations for tomorrow's racing, told Wilmslow Guardian about his travel issues earlier this week and how he's been keeping his body ticking over.

"We were flying from Manchester to Paris-Charles De Gaulle Aiport on Air France then into Seattle, then to Kona (Hawai'i)," he said.

"But Air France was delayed by 50 minutes so we missed our connection in Seattle.

"The authorities gave us red express clearance cards but to no avail.

"We ended up after a lot of stress and running round being rescheduled for the next day, Monday, so we had to find a hotel for the night.

"We finally got here and the weather is gorgeous - hot, sunny, high humidity, gentle breeze."

Mike revealed how he's been warming up for the big event.

"I went for a short 5k morning run on Tuesday down by the Natural Energy Lab, it's a secluded area that's renowned for its high unforgiving temperature.

Knutsford Guardian:

"Then I had a swim on Tuesday afternoon of about 2,500m.

"Wednesday was a short morning swim of 2,000m, then a bike ride after lunch of about 30k along the famous Queen K Highway.

Knutsford Guardian:

"The weather was really hot, 31 degrees C, but I felt okay.

"Later in the afternoon it was the Parade of Nations which I was part of with the GB team, it was really good fun with crowds of people cheering.

"Thursday morning they do an underpants fun run of about 2k - it's open to all the public to join in, so when in Rome...

Knutsford Guardian:

Knutsford Guardian:

"Thursday evening was the welcome banquet, where they introduce all the professionals, tell you about achievements of individuals, and give a spectacular Hawai'i show.

"Straight after that it was Athletes Race Briefing."

His accommodation is perfectly placed.

He added: "I've got a great view from my balcony of the start and finish, at the moment they're erecting the scaffolding for the M dot red carpet finish.

"Everyone here is really freindly and can't do enogh for you.

"I've met some other guys from the UK and been out training with them.

"The butterflies are starting to flutter now. It's getting close so I've got to rack my bike and give my transition bags in."