The Ultimate Challenge

IRONMAN Coeur d’Alene 2016 is right around the corner, and soon some of the world’s top athletes will descend upon our community to take part in one of the most grueling and challenging events in all of sports. In its 14th year, IRONMAN Coeur d’Alene has become a favorite of many competitors in large part due to the beauty of the location.

This year there is likely to be an even bigger interest due to the fact that 2016 IRONMAN Texas is closed. For IRONMAN Coeur d’Alene, this means an additional 25 new qualifying slots for the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii that takes place on October 8.

Competitors come from all over for the privilege to compete in one of the most beautiful venues around. And for spectators, it is always a fun day filled with cheering on the athletes.

IRONMAN Coeur d’Alene begins with 2.4-mile swim in Lake Coeur d’Alene, followed by a two-loop, 112-mile bike ride and of course the grueling 26.2-mile run that brings the athletes through the neighborhoods along Lake Coeur d’Alene, Tubbs Hill, Centennial Trail and back into town on Coeur d’Alene Drive.

One of the most popular places for spectators to view the event is City Park due to the fact much of the competition passes by there several times throughout the day. Just how long it takes to complete the course depends upon the athlete, but most professionals complete it in approximately eight hours.

The race, which takes place on August 21, was historically held in June. And although there are no guarantees when it comes to the weather, the later date does bring warmer water temperatures and a longer time for athletes to train during the summer months.

The success of IRONMAN Coeur d’Alene is due in large part to the literally thousands of volunteers who make it happen. Be sure to mark your calendars for this fun and exciting event as you witness some of the world’s greatest athletes pushing the limit to achieve what for many is a lifelong dream.

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