When IRONMAN announced its newest UK full-distance triathlon race in Leeds on this week, the big reveal was greeted by much positivity. It was also accompanied by more than a few groans when Age Groupers started checking their calendars.
Many potential racers in the UK suddenly realised that their hopes of having ANOTHER big event to enter had in fact been immediately dashed, due to a date clash with the popular Outlaw Triathlon series and its existing ‘full’ event.
Both races are now scheduled for Sunday July 27, 2025 – meaning intrepid athletes will have to choose one or the other, rather than being able to do both.
Outlaw founder – ‘my heart sank a little’
Outlaw founder Iain Hamilton says the 24 hours since finding out he suddenly had a big competitor for entries in Nottingham next summer have been something of a whirlwind. With many emotions swirling, starting with more than a little dread.
He told TRI247: “It’s been 15 years since we started Outlaw Triathlon, and the support from the triathlon community has been nothing short of amazing. But I have to admit, when I found out Ironman was launching their Leeds event on the exact same day as our Outlaw ‘full’ distance race in July, my heart sank a little.
“When we first started Outlaw, we’d hit capacity within hours of opening registration. But, like so many things, a lot has changed since COVID. Thankfully, our Outlaw Half Nottingham still pulls in over 2,500 athletes, but our ‘full’ distance has been struggling to reach 1,000 over the last couple of years.”
Hamilton says his concerns are not just about the athletes either – but also many other sections of the extended Outlaw family who will now have a big decision to make.
“Yesterday, when Ironman announced their Leeds event, I couldn’t help but feel concerned – not just for our athletes, but for the supporters, volunteers, partners, and suppliers who make it all happen and who will now have to make a choice either Outlaw or Ironman. I really wonder if the clash was considered.”
Positivity, and hope
While Iain believes IRONMAN scheduling on the very same day WILL have an impact on his race, he also ended Thursday with his mood boosted by the reaction from Outlaw supporters.
“By the end of the day, I found myself smiling again, reading so many positive comments about Outlaw. People were talking about how much they love our athlete-focused approach, the value for money, the attention to detail, and how they actually want to race Outlaw!
“I’m not gonna lie – Ironman will have an impact. But right now, we’re feeling hopeful, and that’s all thanks to the incredible positivity from our triathlon community.”
