Early Season Full-Distance Triathlons

Written by
Michael Nystrom
Looking for a full-distance race to kick start your tri season? We've found nine options guaranteed to get you your 140.6 fix.
HITS Triathlon Series, Ocala
Ocala, Fla. April 1, 2017
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One of the most popular HITS Triathlon Series events, this full-distance race in Ocala features a spectator-friendly, looped layout. Athletes start and finish at the famed Carney Island Park, and its close proximity to Walt Disney World makes this race a great place for a celebratory post-race family vacation.
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IRONMAN African Championship
Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. April 2, 2017
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Located on Nelson Mandela Bay, the IRONMAN African Championship is a fan favorite on the European circuit. Athletes will depart for a single-lap swim from Hobie Beach, tackle a flat, two-lap bike course along the coast and complete a four-lap run course to the cheers of over 80,000 spectators.
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IRONMAN North American Championship
The Woodlands, Texas. April 22, 2017
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While the rest of the country is still defrosting, athletes will be feeling the heat at IRONMAN Texas at The Woodlands. The 2.4-mile swim takes place in Lake Woodlands, the bike course weaves through rolling farmlands in South Texas and the run finishes in the city itself amongst family and friends. The professional field will be stacked with athletes vying for the championship title.
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IRONMAN Australia
Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia. May 7, 2017
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IRONMAN Australia is an iconic global event and is one of the oldest IRONMAN events on the circuit. The swim takes place in the Hastings River, the bike course follows the Pacific coastline and the run goes through Port Macquarie. What better excuse to gather the family and head Down Under?
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IRONMAN Lanzarote
Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain. May 20, 2017
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Considered one of the toughest IRONMAN events in the world, athletes competing at IRONMAN Lanzarote will face a bike course with intense winds and 2,551 meters (8,369 feet) of climbing. This Canary Island favorite is a popular vacation destination, so bring the family and celebrate your accomplishment in a beautiful setting.
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HITS Triathlon Series, Grand Junction
Grand Junction, Colo. May 21, 2017
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Famous for the National Monument, Grand Junction is becoming a popular triathlon city in the United States. Its pristine water, flat and fast bike course and self-described "bumpy" run course draws competitors to race the area time and time again.
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IRONMAN South American Championship
Florianopolis, Brazil. May 28, 2017
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Triathletes have been heading to South America for over 15 years to compete at IRONMAN Brazil and soak in the world-class entertainment, beaches and restaurants. The bike features a two-loop course with four major climbs, and a mostly-flat two-loop run course is perfect for spectators.
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IRONMAN New Zealand
Taupo, New Zealand. March 3, 2018
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IRONMAN New Zealand has been a mainstay on the triathlon circuit for over 30 years. More than half of the competitors are from outside the country, but the strong local Kiwi spirit will make you feel at home in no time. The swim takes place in one of the world's largest lakes, the bike weaves through forest landscapes and the run is spectator-friendly.
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HITS Triathlon Series, Napa Valley
Napa Valley, California. April 2018
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This full-distance race in Napa Valley weaves amongst world-class scenic vistas of lush vineyards in Northern California. If they're lucky, athletes can catch a glimpse of local wildlife along the course, including swans, bald eagles and deer. Afterwards, sip on some Cabernet Sauvignon, because let's face it: There's no better pairing for wine than triathlon.
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