PENTICTON IRONMAN TRIATHLON

Of course there are many Canadians, but there are many Americans as well who will cross the border and choose Penticton over the many choices for Ironman races that have been springing up in the U.S. over past years.

I believe it says a for the reputation this Ironman triathlon has earned over the years. I say it's a bit surprising because it's a very challenging course, especially with the two huge mountain passes that have to be climbed on the bike.

I suppose from the positive point of view riders can at least come screaming down the other side of the climbs at about 50-55 mph.

The swim can be really good or really tough on Pentiction Ironman triathlon day. It all depends on the weather and the water temperature. If cooler water is not a problem for you than it's fine. The wetsuits you can buy today are quite warm.

The run can be very hot and is hilly in the middle of the course but has amazing aid stations.

All that aside, Penticton Ironman triathlon is really a fabulous race. I think it's for two very important reasons. First of all the scenery is stunning and by that I mean the entire Okanagan Valley as well as the course itself.

You bike around lake Skaha and through the many orchards before reaching Osoyoos and Richter's Pass, the toughest climb on the bike course.

Most of all, Penticton Ironman Canada has amazing volunteers who have lots of practice at hosting the Ironman and its very well done.

People just love this race. It fills up in 24 hours. It's almost as hard to get into the Penticton Ironman as it is the Kona Ironman triathlon.

I think part of the reason is that's its great to bring the whole family and vacation for a while after the Ironman.

To get in, you either have to be there the day after the race, or sitting at your computer that Monday first thing and try and get in that way.

There's usually enough people just in Penticton to fill the race about half way or more and the rest is done online, and they normally have a few community slots available.

This is also a great race to volunteer for if you're planning your Ironman for the following year. At least that way you're there and can enter on the Monday morning and be in for sure.

Although the Penticton Ironman triathlon is a very popular event, the rest of the Ironman family has grown quite a bit over the past decade and that provides an opportunity for triathletes to visit some pretty interesting parts of the world.

China, Brazil, New Zealand, Malaysia, and so many other great destinations are just a few of the choices out there. Even as recently as May 21, 2011 Ironman Texas had their inaugural event in The Woodlands.

Penticton Ironman Triathlon Back To Race Results Page

Penticton Ironman Triathlon Back To Ironstruck Home Page