World’s Best Races
- By Courtney Baird
- Published Jun 7, 2012
- Updated Jun 11, 2012 at 10:23 AM UTC
From tough triathlons that are worth the hurt to scenic ones that are worth the trip, we’ve rounded up the top swim-bike-run races around the globe. This article originally appeared in the May 2012 issue of Triathlete.
Best races for your first iron-distance event
Rev3 Cedar Point
Sandusky, Ohio, Sept. 9
Rev3 Cedar Point features a calm swim in Lake Erie and a relatively flat bike and run, making the race challenging yet doable for newbies. But more than that, Rev3 believes triathlon should include family, which is why race organizers selected Cedar Point—home to a huge amusement and water park—as the location for Rev3’s only iron-distance race. Rev3tri.com
Full Vineman Triathlon
Sonoma County, Calif., July 28
Set along rolling hills in breathtaking California wine country, the Full Vineman Triathlon features typically mild weather, a relatively small field of around 1,000 athletes, and a no-stress swim in the warm Russian River. Another big plus: Sonoma’s renowned wine—for the post-race celebration. Vineman.com
PHOTOS: Full Vineman Triathlon
Ironman Arizona
Tempe, Ariz., Nov. 18
With its relatively flat course and typically mild temperatures in the late fall, Ironman Arizona is a go-to race for triathletes looking to do an Ironman for the first time. Its three-lap bike and run also make the distance more spectator-friendly and seem less daunting. Ironmanarizona.com
FILED UNDER: Features TAGS: best races