You have Ironman 70.3 Japan, Ironman 70.3 Ecuador, Ironman 70.3 Boulder… In fact, the WTC organize over 170 triathlons worldwide. But this Ironman 70.3 moniker technically applies only to events organised by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), whose reputation and wealth was built on the world’s most famous triathlon – Ironman Hawaii. Since 2005, Half Ironman’s been known as Ironman 70.3 with that number referring to the overall distance in miles (which converts to 113 km). You see, while many of us call it Half Ironman, that’s arguably old school. We’ll elaborate on the myriad variables that lie ahead but, before we stride on, clarification is required – namely the name of your challenge. How long will the battle to the finish line take? There are so many variables – age, gender, course terrain – that it’s impossible to prescribe absolutes but, as a snapshot, a good time in the men’s 35-39 age-group is around six hours for the women, you’re looking at an extra hour.
This is where you do battle with a 1.9km (1.2-mile) swim, 90km (56-mile) bike and 21.1km (13.1-mile) run. But for many triathletes, the natural next step in their multisport journey is Half Ironman. What the first two might lack in duration, they more than compensate for in intensity. You’ve sauntered through the sprint, owned Olympic distance and now you’re after a real challenge – the Half Ironman. Thinking of trying an IRONMAN 70.3? Here are the facts you’ll need to know.