IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena – Your Ultimate Race Guide
Why This Race?
Picture this: turquoise Caribbean waters, colonial architecture, and the electric energy of Colombian spectators cheering you through every mile. The IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena isn’t just a race—it’s an experience blending endurance with postcard-worthy backdrops.
- When: Late October/early November (2023: Oct 29 | 2024 TBA)
- Where: Cartagena, Colombia—swim in the bay, bike coastal highways, run through UNESCO-listed streets.
- Slots: 40+ for the 70.3 World Championship.
- Entry: ~$325–$400 (register early—it sells out!).
Course Breakdown: Beauty & the Beast
🌊 Swim (1.9 km) – Like Bathing in Liquid Confidence
Water: 28–30°C (wetsuits likely banned—pack your speed suit!).
Layout: A single, clockwise loop in Cartagena Bay’s protected harbor.
Pro Tip: Sight the Torre del Reloj clocktower—it’s your North Star.
“Calmest swim of my 70.3 career—saltwater buoyancy FTW!” – @TriGuyRyan (Instagram)
🚴 Bike (90 km) – Coastal Cruising… with a Catch
Terrain: Mostly flat, but don’t get complacent. Coastal winds (15–20 km/h) can humble you.
Roads: 90% smooth, but potholes lurk near Mamonal (stay alert!).
Elevation: Just 300m total—a PR-friendly course.
Gear Hack: Deep-section wheels if you’re confident handling crosswinds.
🏃 Run (21.1 km) – Sun, Sweat, & Survival Mode
Conditions: 32°C + 85% humidity. Shade? A luxury.
Course: Loops through the Old Town (cobblestones = extra quad tax).
Aid Stations: Every 1.5 km with ice, cola, and watermelon—use them.
“Poured ice down my tri suit at every station. Game-changer.” – Reddit user /TriHardOrGoHome
Race-Day Playbook
3 Must-Do’s for Success
- Heat Prep: Train in midday heat for 2+ weeks pre-race.
- Bike Recon: Drive the route to memorize pothole hotspots.
- Run Strategy: Walk aid stations to cool down—your pace will thank you later.
Avoid These Blunders
- Swim: Starting too wide adds distance. Hug the buoys!
- Bike: Overbiking the first 40 km = run disaster.
- Run: Skipping ice at Aid Station 1? Don’t.
Logistics: Nail the Details
Where to Stay
- Top Pick: Sofitel Legend Santa Clara (10 mins to start, bike storage, 5AM breakfast).
- Budget Option: Hotel Caribe (great value, but book early).
Race Morning
- Parking: Limited. Take the shuttle or arrive by 4:30AM.
- Transition: Racks assigned by bib—know your spot cold.
The Hard Truths (From Athletes Who’ve Been There)
👍 Loved
- Volunteers who high-fived like your personal cheer squad.
- Post-race arepas and massage tents.
👎 Room for Improvement
- Run course shade (or lack thereof).
- Bike aid stations running low on gels for late starters.
What is the IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena race?
The IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena is a triathlon race featuring a swim in the Caribbean Sea, a bike ride along coastal highways, and a run through the UNESCO-listed streets of Cartagena, Colombia. It offers an incredible experience with a stunning backdrop and vibrant local support.
When does the IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena take place?
The race usually takes place in late October or early November. In 2023, it is scheduled for October 29.
What is the entry fee for the IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena?
The entry fee ranges from approximately $325 to $400. It is advisable to register early due to its high demand.
What are the course specifics for the IRONMAN 70.3 Cartagena?
The swim is a 1.9 km loop in Cartagena Bay with likely warm waters; the bike is a flat 90 km with potential coastal winds; the run is a hot and humid 21.1 km through the historic streets with limited shade.
What are the key strategies for success in this race?
Success strategies include preparing for the heat by training during similar conditions, doing a reconnaissance of the bike route to memorize tricky spots, and using aid stations to cool down during the run.
Where should participants plan to stay for the race?
Recommended accommodations include the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, which is close to the start, offers bike storage and early breakfast, and Hotel Caribe for budget-friendly options, though early booking is recommended.
#TriathlonAdventure #ColombianChallenge
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