Ironman Canada is probably the world's most known triathlon, a part from Hawaii Ironman. It runs its course in Penticton, British Columbia, Canada where the temperatures are hot and the scenery is like no other.
The Subaru Ironman Canada started in 1983 and has run every year since. The race falls on the Sunday of the last weekend in August before Labor Day every year. For the Ironman, each participant is required to do a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike ride, and a 26.2 mile marathon. There are over 2000 participants each year, all with the same goal – to finish the race! The race starts at 7am, and all participants have until midnight to complete it.
The race starts with the swim at Okanagan Lake Beach – which has the widest beach start of any Ironman in the world. This is necessary because Ironman Canada has the highest number of participants of any Ironman triathlon.
Once having exited the water, participants transfer to the bike course starting up Penticton's Main Street. The first 30 miles of the bike are relatively flat, and it is one of the most beautifully scenic courses in the world. Bikers can enjoy the views of the lakes and mountains along the ride, from one of the most beautiful places on earth.
After the bike course, the running course starts in the same manner. Although at a shorter distance, runners can enjoy the views of Penticton and the Okanagan Valley. Along the run there are volunteers and supporters that will replenish the runners with food and drink, and at the same time keep them in high spirits!
Ironman Canada hosts people from countries all over the world. It gets a wide range of athletes, varying in age, shape, size, and gender. This year's race will host defending champion Lisa Bentley, and 2006 winners Belinda Granger and Jasper Blake.
