Summer might be on its way out in the northern hemisphere. But that doesn’t mean race season has to be over quite yet. Whether your ‘A’ race didn’t go according to plan and you’re looking for a redemption race. Or you’re just feeling fit and wanting to make the most of it with one last start line before the year is out. We’re bringing you our top picks of the late season 2024 middle and short distance triathlon events which – as we type – are still open for entries.
Europe
The ROC Triathlon, Scotland
If you’re looking for a next level challenge to round off race season, The ROC Scotland is certainly not your average triathlon. Starting with a 1.5km swim, you’ve then got 27km of gravel/mountain biking around the loch and up into the glens before you set off on foot up to the top of Ben Nevis and back. But this isn’t a case of swim-bike-run-done. Because once you’ve completed a trip up and down the mountain, you’ll then hop back on your bike to ride 26km back to Kinlochleven, finishing the day with a 1.5km trail run to get to the finish.
The ROC Scotland is a seriously tough day out, but if you’ve got a strong summer of training under your belt and you’re up for the challenge – this could be an epic way to finish your season.
Challenge Peguera Mallorca
For those of us living in the northern hemisphere, Mallorca is the ultimate end of season get away to get one last blast of vitamin D before the winter gloom sets in. And what better way to kick off your October escape to every cyclist and triathlete’s favourite Mediterranean island than a hit out at Challenge Peguera Mallorca! With a challenging bike course that offers the best of coastal and mountain views, and a lively run in the heart of Peguera. This middle distance race is a great way to finish your season in style.
IRONMAN 70.3 Marathon, Greece
Home of the OG running challenge – the 42.2km marathon – Marathon, Greece sets the scene for an epic day of swim-bike-run this October. Swim in crystal clear water, cycle on the Athens Marathon course and run through the pine-covered National Park of Schinia.
Challenge Barcelona
Experience racing in one of the most iconic cities in Europe. With several short distance races on offer, Challenge Barcelona is the ultimate way to end your season – and escape the descending autumn for a warm weather city break while you’re at it. The swim takes place in the sheltered and warm waters of Mar Bella beach, offering a spectacular view of Barcelona’s coast line. The bike course is fast and flat, winding along the avenues near the coast. And your day will finish with a speedy out and back run course along the promenade. Race weekend offers up everything from super sprint to Olympic distance racing, plus Aquathlon and Junior events – so there’s something for everyone.
Roc d’Azur Triathlon
For something a little different, check out Roc d’Azur – a weekend of triathlon, cycling and trail running that takes place in Fréjus, France. Most famous for its program of mountain biking events, Roc d’Azur also offers a huge range of trail running and gravel riding races. Plus a solo and a relay triathlon. Based in the Base Nature François Léotard, you’ll start with a 1500m ocean swim before heading for the hills to take on a 25.6km mountain bike ride and a 9.6km trail run to finish.
Limassol Triathlon
The perfect option for a last minute October getaway, the Limassol triathlon is suitable for first timers and experienced triathletes alike with sprint and super sprint options on offer. The ocean swim keeps you close to the shore, ideal if you’re a nervous sea swimmer. The multi-lap bike course is fun and fast. And the run follows suit with short laps, meaning spectators will be able to line the course.
USA
Clash Daytona
Host of the USAT National Championships, Clash Daytona promises a high octane weekend of multisport at the Daytona Speedway. There are multiple event distances on offer, including short course and kids racing alongside the flagship middle distance events. You’ll start with a swim in Lake Lloyd, with the Daytona International Speedway Track providing an iconic background. The bike gives you the opportunity to ride a lap around the speedway before heading out onto the highway – fast times are certainly on the cards here. The run is filled with atmosphere as you make 3 laps around the track to finish your day.
IRONMAN 70.3 Acapulco
If 50km of beaches with golden sands, crystal clear water and a backdrop of soaring cliff faces sounds like your thing, jet off to Acapulco this December for a late season IRONMAN 70.3.
Made famous by the Hollywood stars of the 50s and 60s, the original party town is now home to a half Ironman race. Featuring a stunning swim in a calm bay, a rolling bike course and a palm-tree lined run with a finish in the lively heart of the city. Mexico City is just a few hours away, making this an ideal choice for a big end of season race-cation.
Edisto Island Triathlon
Edisto Island triathlon in South Carolina is another fast and flat option for those on the hunt for an end of season PR over the middle distance. It starts with a ‘with the tide’ channel swim, followed by a flat bike course and a 2-lap out and back run course.
Idaho High Mountain Triathlon
Part triathlon, part adventure the Idaho High Mountain Triathlon is a point to point race. And as you might guess by the name, you’ve got a bit of elevation to scale in between. Starting at Warm Lake with a 1500m swim in the largest natural lake in Boise National Forest (5300ft above sea level) you’ll then bike (40km) and run (10km) your way up and over 7300ft of elevation to finish in Yellow Pine. This small but unique race is sure to provide amazing scenery.
Mission Bay Triathlon
Celebrate the 50th birthday of triathlon by taking a trip back to where it all began. In 1974, the San Diego Track Club held the first ever triathlon at Mission Bay – a run-bike-swim-run-event. And on October 11th you can be part of the legacy at the Mission Bay Triathlon. There are a wide range of events on offer – from an ‘Itsy Bitsy Triathlon’ from the youngsters all the way up to the ‘International Triathlon’ which features distances just shy of an Olympic distance race.
Morro Bay Triathlon
Experience the beauty of the California coast line at Morro Bay this November. You’ll swim in the bay, before heading out on a challenging but fun bike course and finishing up with a mixed terrain run on trails, beach and boardwalk. There are both Olympic and Sprint distance races available. And if you’re someone who prefers being on the water instead of in it – the good news is you also have the option to swap the swim in the bay for a kayak or SUP instead
Rest of the World
IRONMAN 70.3 Melbourne
Beach meets city with this fast, flat 70.3 in Australia’s ultimate sporting destination – Melbourne. Starting at St Kilda Beach, you’ll tick off a swim in Port Phillip Bay. The average water temperature is usually around 18 degrees C which means it’ll most likely be wetsuit legal. The bike takes you along the famous Beach Road, with views of Half Moon Bay. And the run is a scenic 2-lap course along the St Kilda and Elwood waterfront.
The air temperature tends to be warm but not hot at this time of year, averaging around 17 degrees Celsius. Making this a great way to experience Australia without having to worry too much about racing in the heat.
Challenge Xiamen
China has been host to two PRO races recently – Challenge Beijing and WTCS Weihai. And if all that action has you inspired to experience racing in China, the stunning coastline at Challenge Xiamen is certainly an option to consider. The race takes place on the Huandong Romantic Coast, with the swim in Tongan Bay and a closed road bike and run course. Known as the ‘World Garden City’, the city of Xiamen offers a stunning natural environment and a mix of history and modern culture.
IRONMAN 70.3 Goa
Experience the unique Indo-Portuguese culture of Goa with a trip to race a 70.3 in the regions capital – Panaji. Located in Western India, Goa is known for its tropical beaches and plantations. The race features a swim in the calm waters of Miramar Beach, before heading out on a fast bike course that showcases the best of the region’s scenery, including the hundreds of coconut trees Agaçiam village and views of the Zuari River below as you cross over the Zuari cable bridge.
Bermuda Triathlon
The homeland of Olympic triathlon great, Flora Duffy, is now host to an annual triathlon event. Start race day with an adrenaline-pumping leap from a boat near the historic Vixen shipwreck before swimming through crystal-clear water back to the shores of Cambridge Beaches. Heading out of T1 you’ll be treated to an incredibly scenic bike ride, with panoramic ocean views at times. Before heading back to drop off your bike and set off on a run through the lush surrounding landscapes. If that’s not enough to tempt you – you’ll also get to enjoy an awards ceremony over breakfast the day!
Conchman Triathlon Bahamas
What better way to escape the dark mornings and gloomy evenings of winter, than atrip to the Bahamas? The Conchman Triathlon has been happening since 1986, a staple in the calendar for the local community. Choose from a sprint or super sprint race as the perfect way to kick off your trip to this stunning location.
Noosa Triathlon
Noosa Triathlon is the biggest Olympic distance triathlon in the world, and it sits firmly at the top of many an athlete’s bucket list. Drawing in big name PROs and a huge contingent of age-groupers every year. And while regular entries for this year’s event are, unsurprisingly, sold out. If you’re really keen to make the trip to Australia and experience this iconic event while you’re at it. There are still VIP packages available.
Get more race inspiration by visiting our Let’s Race… section.
