Triathlon Destination Guide – 14 Must Tri Tri’s
If you’re looking for some new triathlon destinations to check out, here are some tips from top pros on where to race and how to train. And even if you’re sticking close to home, there are still plenty of new adventures to be had.
If you are interested in any of these races, it is best to sign up as soon as possible as they tend to fill up quickly. Be sure to leave enough time to take care of details like booking a place to stay and shipping your bike.
1. St. Anthony’s Triathlon
The St. Anthony’s Triathlon is the perfect race to kick off race season. Swim, bike, and run along the picturesque St. Petersburg waterfront, with great fan support, premier race organization, and fierce competition.
Named “Race of the Year” by USA Triathlon and one of the “10 Greatest Destination Triathlons,” everything from our expo to the course to our post-race party is sure to make your weekend unforgettable.
The St. Anthony’s Olympic and Sprint are both race events that take place in Tampa Bay, with the bike and run course being located in Tampa and St. Petersburg. The race is 33 years old, making it one of the oldest established races in the country. Because it is an early-season race, it is known for having a strong field year in and year out.
DATE OF RACES for 2024 TBA Soon.
2. Ironman South Africa
Scintillating South African Scenery
Nelson Mandela Bay—named after the freedom fighter and world icon of peace — hosts Africa’s most renowned triathlon. An IRONMAN Championship race that pulses with South African spirit, experience the breathtaking courses and feverish support at this postcard-perfect beachside destination – back at the iconic Hobie Beach in 2023.
Ironman South Africa has grown in popularity in the past decade and was runner-up in the 2017 Ironman Athletes’ Choice Awards. Set in the quiet beachside community of Port Elizabeth, along Nelson Mandela Bay, this coastal city with a small-town vibe comes alive on race weekend, making it feel like an all-encompassing party for participants and spectators alike.
Ironman participants will start the race with a one-lap, 2.4-mile swim at Hobie Beach, which is known for its calm and temperate water. From there, they will bike on a two-lap course along Marine Drive, with views of Sardinia Bay and the coastline, before heading back to the turnaround point at Seaview Village. The 26.2-mile run course is a four-loop circuit along the coastline that is known for its high energy, with typically more than 75,000 people lining the route. The race will end with a finish line at Hobie Beach.
DATE OF RACES 14 & 15 December 2024
3. Ironman Mont-Tremblant
A Genuine Joie de Vivre
IRONMAN Mont-Tremblant, part of the VinFast IRONMAN North America Series is an experience of a lifetime. Tremblant, the best four-season resort in Eastern North America, is a world leader when it comes to providing activities and experiences that surpass the expected. This breathtaking and pristine getaway is also a 10-time IRONMAN Athlete Choice Award winner. The course consists of a 2.4-mile swim in the picturesque Lake Tremblant, a 112-mile ride on an award-winning bike course and a 26.2-mile run through the enchanting community of Tremblant. Tremblant’s European pedestrian village is a vibrant setting for luxury lodging, dining, shopping, and spas to meet everyone’s needs.
Cody Beals was familiar with the Mont-Tremblant resort from a young age, as his family would go on vacation there. Beals, a professional triathlete from Guelph, Ontario, has now raced Olympic distance, 70.3, and full Ironman races at the resort 80 miles northwest of Montreal. He says that since he has raced there, he has gained a new appreciation for the beauty of the location.
DATE OF RACES 20th August 2023
Even if you’re a strong cyclist, consider using a bigger cassette than normal for the 2018 Ironman Mont-Tremblant, which has a new bike course split and overall record (8:10). The swim consists of one big 2.4-mile loop in the 71-degree waters of Lake Tremblant, while the rolling and scenic two-lap run course sends athletes along a section of the former route of Le P’tit Train du Nord (the Train of the North), past a large waterfall and alongside three lakes before returning to Tremblant Resort. Beals’ biggest tip for the race? Try to learn a little bit of French, since the town the race is held in is known for its European charm and French-Canadian culture.
4. Challenge Roth
Welcome to the world’s largest long-distance triathlon, Challenge Roth, held in the heart of Bavaria since 1984. This event typically draws 3,400 individual competitors and 650 relay teams from 75 countries and is a true spectacle of human endurance. Challenge Roth is an age group’s bucket list event, not only because of its size but also because of the estimated 250,000 spectators that come out every year to cheer on the athletes. The course is lined with spectators for the entire swim, run, and bike, making it a truly unique experience.
The race begins with a single-loop 2.4-mile swim in Main Danube Canal, with screaming spectators lining the banks and bridges. The rolling, two-lap, 112-mile ride has one significant climb and descent per lap and a Tour de France atmosphere with crowds, music, and revelry in each of the dozen or so villages along the course. The marathon run course was modified for 2018 with a flat, one-lap circuit that sends athletes along the canal and through the city streets of Roth and Büchenbach to the most thrilling triathlon finish line outside of Kona. A massive finish-area party and spectacular fireworks show cap off the amazing day after the last racers cross the line.
DATE OF RACES 25th June 2023. The race is booked up. “Thanks for your loyalty. Looking forward to seeing you at the finish line on 25 June 2023″.
5. Escape from Alcatraz
Raise your heartbeat in June!
Welcome to the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. The world’s top athletes from around the globe take over the streets and waters of San Francisco for this prestigious triathlon. Showcasing the beauty of San Francisco, triathletes embark on a 1.5-mile swim from Alcatraz Island to the San Francisco shoreline, an 18-mile hilly bike ride out to Golden Gate Park and an 8-mile trail run out to Baker Beach and up the infamous Sand Ladder. This world-renowned triathlon, in which only 2,000 triathletes can participate, sells out quickly each year.
The San Francisco Escape from Alcatraz race is one of the most popular triathlons in the USA. This Olympic-distance race has been going on for 37 years and is unique because it starts from Alcatraz Island. Swimmers must contend with a strong current and water temperatures of 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Since the water is so cold, all participants must wear a wetsuit. The bike portion of the race takes place in the Presidio, and the run is 8 miles long, finishing under the Golden Gate Bridge. The race is capped at 2,000 participants, and it is a competitive draw to get in, so you may need to try a few times before being successful.
DATE OF RACES 11th June 2023 2024 Dates TBA
6. New York City Triathlon
The 2023 New York City Triathlon & Duathlon produced by LifeTime will take place on October 1, 2023. “For the first time in NYC Tri’s 22-year history, we’re taking on the Concrete Jungle in the Autumn — and we couldn’t be more excited.”
Why Autumn? “After listening to you (our athletes), we decided to move the event to later in the season. Our goal is to avoid summer weather trends, which have negatively affected participants and spectators in past years, and improve the overall safety and the event experience for our incredible athletes”.
New York City is the most iconic metropolis in America, and the New York City Triathlon boasts a course that is mainly in Manhattan with a brief venture into the Bronx. Many great urban triathlons – Chicago, Minneapolis, Austin, Alcatraz – but this one is special because it is the Big Apple. Swim in the Hudson River (ok, maybe not exactly a pristine Northwoods lake, but it is the historic Hudson), bike along the Hudson up and down the Manhattan riverfront and into the Bronx, and go for a run in Central Park. That is basically a tour of one of the great world cities, all in the midst of a race. This is an Olympic-distance race, but getting in is difficult. The race is typically full well in advance and uses a drawing to determine the slots.
DATE OF RACES 1st October 2023
7. Ironman Cairns
The out-and-back run course follows the Cairns Esplanade boardwalk for a stunning 21k before returning to the transition area in the heart of the city. This event, known as the “Ironman in Paradise,” has everything you could want in an ultimate Australian race vacation. Situated amid the stunning tropical environment of North Queensland, the Cairns race venue is adjacent to the Coral Sea, several national parks, and the world’s oldest rainforest. With a backdrop of rainforest mountains, the race begins with a 2.4-mile, one-lap swim in the balmy waters of Palm Cove—a rectangular loop that parallels the beaches adjacent to Williams Esplanade. From there, competitors head out for a spectacular 112-mile ride and down Captain Cook Highway along the Coral Sea coastline, a route considered to be among the best bike courses in the entire Ironman circuit. The out-and-back run course follows the Cairns Esplanade boardwalk for a stunning 21k before returning to the transition area in the heart of the city.
The event is one of many adventurous activities that make up an eight-day festival. Other activities include a 70.3 race, an ocean-swimming event, mountain- bike races, a kids’ triathlon, and a neon-infused nighttime 5K.
DATE OF RACES 16 June 2024
8. Dispatches From the Tri Travel Frontier: Patagonia
In 2003, the Patagonian Xtreme Triathlon began hosting a point-to-point full iron-distance race that is so beautiful and brutal that it is hard to believe. The race is held in southern Chile in an area that was previously only accessible by car. The race occurs in December, which is springtime in Patagonia.
A bike ride along the Carretera Austral road, which has 8,000 feet of climbing and a lot of wind in the second half, followed by a run along a path used by horseback riders, leads to a panoramic view of the tallest peaks in the Patagonian Andes, including Cerro Castillo. Runners will also pass some of the region’s glacier lakes and waterfalls.
DATE OF RACES 3rd December 2023
9. Lobsterman Triathlon
The Lobsterman Triathlon is one of the most decorated and well-known races in the United States, both because of its stunning beauty and the fantastic after-party. Recognized by publications around the world as one of the top Bucket List Races, Lobsterman is also known for the authentic Maine Lobsterbake that we throw once the event wraps up. Bring the family and stay for the weekend. September is the perfect time to enjoy the State of Maine.
Some people only know Freeport, ME as the home of LL Bean, but it is a beautiful city of 8,000 that is perched on the coast of Central Maine, between Portland and Brunswick. If you want a true Northeastern Atlantic Coast experience, this is it. This September race is a repeat nomination and is the only one on our list that boasts a full lobster bake after the race. The Olympic-distance race is a standard international length, with the swim in Casco Bay, the bike along the Atlantic Ocean, and a run through the village of South Seaport. Because of the water temps, triathlon wetsuits are required in this race. Expect highs in the low 70s and lows around 50f for a nice, late-season race.
The best part of the post-race festivities is the Lobsterbake! It will include fresh lobster, steamers, corn, coleslaw, bread, etc. and there will be plenty of free beer to enjoy (you must be 21 years of age to consume). Non-alcoholic drinks will also be provided. Beer is available to anyone of age and does not require a ticket for the Lobsterbake.
DATE OF RACES 16th September 2023
10. Nautica Malibu Triathlon
The Malibu Triathlon is an iconic event in one of the most beautiful locations in the world, bringing together athletes, celebrities, and Fortune 500 Corporations, for one common goal – to raise awareness and provide key funds for Pediatric Cancer Research at CHLA.
Doing a race in Southern California is an amazing experience because of the views. The Nautica Malibu Triathlon is a great choice because it’s near many attractions and the course is not too difficult. You’ll have an incredible time at this race!
DATE OF RACES 30th September – 1st October 2023
11. Ironman New Zealand
A bucket list race for all triathletes
The world’s second-longest-running IRONMAN with a proud and rich history deeply rooted in our hometown of Taupō. The race itself showcases the best of New Zealand’s natural wonderland, and more than 2,000 volunteers and thousands of supporters line the streets to cheer you on. You will be welcomed with open arms and will leave enriched with the locals’ pure Kiwi spirit
The 35th annual Ironman New Zealand event will be held in Taupo amid stunning scenery. The event includes a one-lap swim in Lake Taupo, one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes; a two-loop bike through villages and rural farmland; and a three-lap, spectator-friendly run course along the lake.
DATE OF RACES 2nd March 2024
12. Ironman Austria
Crystal Clear Waters
Known as one of the most beautiful races in the world, IRONMAN Kärnten-Klagenfurt, Austria has become legendary among athletes. Breathtaking swim course scenery of the Wörthersee, biking through the green heart of Carinthia, and a cauldron-like finish line in the heart of the city. This is a triathlon at its purest.
Although it has not received much attention in North America, Ironman Austria is one of the most notable events in Europe. The one-lap swim in the clear, mild waters of Lake Wörthersee (usually 75 degrees on race day) includes a unique final half-mile in a narrow canal leading to T1. A new, one-loop bike course has been implemented for 2019 that includes four significant ascents and almost 5,000 feet of climbing. The two-loop run course is flat and partially shaded, taking runners along the lake and into the Klagenfurt city centre before returning to the lake for the grand finish-line promenade.
DATE OF RACES June 16th June 2024
13. Ironman Lanzarote
Captivating island landscapes
IRONMAN Lanzarote is one of the longest-standing races in Europe. A Unesco biosphere reserve, Lanzarote is a captivating island with 300 volcanic cones. Stark landscapes reminiscent of the black lava fields of Kona are intermingled with tropical beachside scenes
The Canary Islands Ironman race is not only one of the hardest triathlon events in the world, but it is also one of the most picturesque. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 300 ancient volcanic cones, black lava fields, and an array of spectacular beaches. The race course includes a two-lap swim at Playa Grande, a challenging bike course with 8,400 feet of climbing, and a flat, three-lap seaside run course that culminates on Playa de Carmen with cheering spectators.
DATE OF RACES May 20th 2023 2024 TBA
14. Door County Triathlon
The Door County Peninsula is often referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” This popular Midwestern tourist destination offers an abundance of lodging, dining, shopping and entertainment options. The sandy shorelines and majestic bluffs along Green Bay north of Sturgeon Bay provide an ideal setting for a triathlon.
Frank Murphy Park is located in Horseshoe Bay, just 15 miles north of Sturgeon Bay and 3 miles south of Egg Harbor. The park has an ornate pavilion, a sandy beach, and a permanent pier that is perfect for spectators. Several large fields directly across the road from the park’s entrance provide ample parking for participants and spectators.
Every July, athletes come to Door County, near Sturgeon Bay, WI, to compete in the Door County Tri. This long-running event takes place in Egg Harbour, on the coast of Lake Michigan. The swim portion of the race takes place in Horseshoe Bay, which is part of Green Bay within Lake Michigan. The bike and run take competitors through the rolling combination of lakeshore bluffs, woods, and farmland. Door County is a serene place, but it gets enough big-city weekend traffic in the summer to create a very energetic vibe for this event. After the race, visitors can enjoy the local villages of Door County, a fish boil, or a state park. Door County is a few hours north of the Milwaukee and Chicago area.
DATE OF RACES July 15-16, 2023. 2024 TBA
Ready Your Gears
Do you find yourself attached yet? Many committed triathletes would most likely have a list of Ironman-distance races that are excellent. Nevertheless, we still believe that it is significant to acknowledge races that are well-organized, renowned, and achievable for athletes who are preparing for a Sprint or Olympic race.
