Ironman in St. George, Utah

Ironman in St. George, Utah

This Friday, May 6, 2023 St. George, Utah will host the iconic Ironman race. The Ironman is a rigorous triathlon for the most elite athletes from all over the world. It takes place in different cities and states all around the U.S. The Ironman has been a part of the St. George community since 2009 and it takes place biannually, both in the Spring and Fall. It’s always an exhilarating experience for both the racers and locals. In September 2021, St George hosted the Ironman 70.3 World Championship, as well as the Ironman World Championship on May 7, 2022 and the Ironman 70.3 World Championship October of 2022. This means Greater Zion has hosted three Ironman championships in 13 months, which is an accomplishment that had never before been reached in Ironman history.

Running a race in St. George, Utah is unlike anywhere else. The racers navigate through two state parks, lava fields, and the desert of red rocks that St. George is famous for. The location offers a rigorous adventure that will challenge the athletes as well as give them an unforgettable experience. The weather is also perfect for outdoor exercise. In the months of May and October there is a cool breeze as well as a warm sun. St. George, Utah is one of the perfect destinations for a physically demanding outdoor race.

This one day race of endurance was a concept created by a couple, Judy and John Collins. The Collins family had participated in the Mission Bay Triathlon in San Diego on 25 September 1974, which was the event that indicated the beginning of the modern triathlon in the U.S. In 1977, the Collins' helped organize a sprint-run-swim competition in Honolulu which inspired them to put on a triathlon event the next year. Their hope was to create a race for the endurance athlete, so Judy and John announced their Around the Island Triathlon. It was such a success that it began to be held annually and was eventually recognized on ABC's "Wide World of Sports" which introduced the Ironman to the world.

In total, the Iron Man consists of 140.6 miles. It includes 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of bicycling, and 26.2 miles on foot. As mentioned before, it’s a challenge of endurance, so it must be completed in 17 hours. To put things into perspective, the Ironman is more than double the swim section and more than four times the biking and running sections than an Olympic triathlon. Ironman athletes are truly the best of the best.

There have been a number of famous athletes that have competed in an Ironman and some of the most famous moments in triathlon history have been achieved in an Ironman. It’s such a thrilling race to participate in or simply learn about and observe. The Southern Utah community loves to unite together and welcome athletes and racers from everywhere to the beautiful town of Sunny St. George. It’s such an exciting tradition in the community and we’re really looking forward to supporting the racers this weekend!