The Best Ironman Races in the World
Ironman races are the most demanding triathlon competitions since participants need to cover three distances in the shortest possible time. In this article, we’ll tell you all about the best Ironman races in the world.
What are the best Ironman races?
Organized by the World Triathlon Corporation, Ironman races have three parts that participants must complete. There are 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of cycling, and 26.2 miles of running.
Also, there are different versions: Ironman 70.3 competitions have half of the previous distances. This means it’s 1.1 miles of swimming, 76 miles of cycling and 13.1 miles of running. According to some of the best triathletes, here are the best Ironman races:
1. Ironman races 70.3, Western Sydney
Many athletes think this is the best Ironman in the world because of the wonderful landscapes. There’s nothing like swimming in the Penrith Lakes, cycling between the Blue Mountains, or running past the famous Sydney Opera House.
This race starts very early, around 6:15 am, and passes through Penrith, Sydney. It ends around 10 am, although the award ceremony is held in the afternoon.
2. Ironman 70.3, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
This town in Idaho has become famous for hosting one of the best Ironman races in the world. In fact, it takes place in a 100 percent rural environment. This competition takes place in early summer, and the route invites athletes to marvel at Idaho’s landscapes.
The race goes through a lake fed by a melting glacier, right next to a beautiful forest. But, be careful, that doesn’t mean the athletes are calm… it’s quite the opposite!
3. Ironman races 70.3, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Another beautiful Ironman that takes place in the US is in Chattanooga, Tennessee. However, the open water swimming part is a little complicated. Triathletes need to face the current of the rough Tennessee River.
During the cycling stage, you can enjoy wonderful views: Riverfront Parkway, Tennessee Riverwalk, and Lookout Mountain , among others. The last one was in May of 2019. Lots of competitors are expected for the 2020 event.
4. Ironman 70.3, Kraichgau, Germany
For this one, you’ll need to travel to southwest Germany. Here, you’ll enjoy one of the best Ironman races on the planet. The city of Kraichgau is known as “the land of a thousand hills.” Therefore, it’s one of the many reasons why triathletes don’t miss this competition.
Beautiful landscapes make you forget about the difficulty of the race. It’s been held since 2015, and the last race was June 2, 2019. The most recent winner was the German, Jan Frodeno.
5. Ironman races 70.3, Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
In Canada, this race is great for people that love extreme sports. The captivating landscapes of Quebec will take you through stone paths, lakes, tiny towns, and the beauty of Mont-Tremblant. Finally, you’ll finish the race in a ski village.
6. Ironman 70.3, South Africa
This race has Buffalo City as its epicenter, perfect to combine sports and adventure. The South African Ironman is so important that on race day, the highway is closed to vehicles so that athletes can compete smoothly.
During the tour, you can enjoy beautiful views of the beach. On the other hand, you can still pay attention to the tough bike race ahead.
7. Ironman 70.3, Taupo, New Zealand
It’s impossible not to connect this country with the Hobbits. In fact, you might feel as if you’re one of them when you’re running among the green fields and hills! Taupo’s Ironman takes place in December in a tourist area. In addition, you’ll swim in New Zealand’s largest lake.
Finally, other Ironman Races that are worth knowing about are Maceió (Lagoas, Brazil), Vichy (Auvergne, France), Haugesund (Norway), Cozumel (Mexico), Lake Placid (New York) and Gurye (South Korea). Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, you’ll love the experience!
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- Ironman, sitio oficial. https://www.ironman.com/