Question 1

What are the standard triathlon distances?

Accepted Answer

The main distances are Sprint (750m swim, 20K bike, 5K run), Olympic (1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run), Half-Ironman/70.3 (1.2mi swim, 56mi bike, 13.1mi run), and full Ironman (2.4mi swim, 112mi bike, 26.2mi run). Browse all distances on RACE.

Question 2

What do I need for my first triathlon?

Accepted Answer

At minimum you need a swimsuit, goggles, a road or tri bike, helmet, running shoes, and a race belt for your number. Many beginners start with a sprint triathlon, which can be completed in 1-2 hours.

Question 3

What is the difference between sprint and Olympic triathlon?

Accepted Answer

A sprint triathlon is roughly half the distance of an Olympic triathlon. Sprints typically take 1-1.5 hours while Olympic distance races take 2-3.5 hours. Sprints are ideal for beginners.

Question 4

How do I qualify for the IRONMAN World Championship?

Accepted Answer

Athletes qualify by earning a slot at an IRONMAN-branded qualifying race. Each full IRONMAN event allocates slots to age group winners. The World Championship is held annually in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Question 5

What are the biggest triathlons in the US?

Accepted Answer

The SuperTri Chicago Triathlon is the largest single triathlon event with 8,000+ athletes. IRONMAN events in Texas, Florida, Lake Placid, and Arizona draw thousands. Escape From Alcatraz is a bucket-list race. Find them all on RACE.

Triathlons Across the US

Browse Triathlons by State

Upcoming Triathlons